As a Windows 11 user, it can be frustrating to constantly be bombarded with advertising throughout the operating system. From personalized ads in the Start menu to promotions in the taskbar, it can feel like advertising is everywhere. Fortunately, there are ways to disable all of Windows 11’s built-in advertising.

1. Disable Personalized Ads in the Start Menu

Windows 11 displays personalized ads in the Start menu, which can be annoying for users who prefer a clean interface. To disable these ads, open the Start menu and click on Settings. Next, click on Personalization and toggle off the switch for “Show advertisements in Start.”

2. Disable Promotions in the Taskbar

Windows 11 also displays promotions in the taskbar, which can take up valuable space and distract users from their tasks. To disable these promotions, right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings. Scroll down to the Notifications section and toggle off the switch for “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.”

3. Disable Ads in Windows Settings

Windows 11 also displays ads in various settings menus, such as the Windows Update section. To disable these ads, open Settings and click on Privacy & security. Scroll down to the General section and toggle off the switch for “Occasionally show suggestions in Settings.”

4. Disable Ads in Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge, the default web browser in Windows 11, also displays advertising in the form of sponsored content on the New Tab page. To disable these ads, open Edge and click on the three-dot menu in the upper right corner. Select Settings and scroll down to the Appearance section. Toggle off the switch for “Show sponsored content.”

5. Disable Ad Tracking

Finally, to truly disable all of Windows 11’s built-in advertising, you can disable ad tracking. Open Settings and click on Privacy & security. Scroll down to the General section and click on “Tracking prevention.” Toggle on the switch for “Strict” to block most ads and trackers across the web.

By following these steps, you can disable all of Windows 11’s built-in advertising and enjoy a cleaner, more streamlined experience.