Removing ads from Windows 11 is pretty straightforward once you know where to look. By tweaking a few settings and turning off some features, you can enjoy an ad-free experience on your system. We’ll walk you through each step to ensure you can follow along easily.
Removing Ads from Windows 11
Before diving in, it’s important to know what we’ll be doing: disabling personalized ads, turning off suggestions, and tweaking some system settings. These actions collectively minimize the ads you see on your Windows 11 device.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device by pressing the Windows key + I.
In the Settings menu, you can access various options to customize your system. It’s like the control panel but more user-friendly.
Step 2: Go to Privacy & Security
Next, click on the "Privacy & Security" tab.
This section houses all the settings related to your personal data and security. By tweaking these, we can limit the ads targeting you.
Step 3: Navigate to "General"
Inside "Privacy & Security," find and click "General."
Here, you’ll see options related to how apps can use your advertising ID and other personalized settings.
Step 4: Turn off "Let apps use advertising ID"
Under "General," toggle off the switch next to "Let apps use advertising ID to make ads more interesting to you based on your app activity."
Disabling this option prevents apps from using your activity to serve personalized ads, reducing the number of targeted ads you see.
Step 5: Disable "Show me suggested content"
Still within "General," turn off "Show me suggested content in the Settings app."
This will stop Windows from showing ads and suggestions within the Settings app itself.
Step 6: Turn off lock screen ads
Navigate back to the main Settings menu, then go to "Personalization" and select "Lock screen." Under "Personalize your lock screen," set the background to "Picture" or "Slideshow" and toggle off "Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen."
This way, no ads or suggestions will pop up when you wake your device or start it up.
After completing these steps, you’ll notice a significant drop in the number of ads and suggestions appearing on your Windows 11 device. Your system should feel cleaner and less cluttered.
Tips for Removing Ads from Windows 11
- Disable Cortana: If you’re not using Cortana, consider turning it off as it can display suggestions and ads.
- Use a local account: Using a local account instead of a Microsoft account can further minimize ad targeting.
- Block notifications: Go to the "Notifications & Actions" settings to disable notifications from apps that often show ads.
- Check your browser settings: Sometimes ads can appear in the Microsoft Edge browser, so tweak your browser settings to block them.
- Update regularly: Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest settings to control ads and privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows 11 show ads?
Windows 11, like its predecessors, uses ads to generate revenue and promote features. These are usually targeted using your usage data.
Can I completely remove all ads from Windows 11?
While you can significantly reduce ads, completely eliminating them may not be possible as some are built into the system’s architecture.
Will removing ads affect my system’s performance?
No, removing ads should not negatively affect your system’s performance. In fact, it might even improve it by reducing unnecessary pop-ups.
Do I need admin rights to remove ads?
Yes, you will need administrative rights to access some settings and make changes.
Are these changes permanent?
Most changes are permanent but can be easily reverted if you change your mind.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Go to Privacy & Security
- Navigate to "General"
- Turn off "Let apps use advertising ID"
- Disable "Show me suggested content"
- Turn off lock screen ads
Conclusion
Removing ads from Windows 11 is a simple yet satisfying task that can make your computing experience much more pleasant. By following the steps outlined, you’ll substantially reduce the number of ads and suggestions cluttering your system, making it feel more like your personal space.
Remember, technology should work for you, not the other way around. If you’re looking to dive deeper, consider exploring additional privacy settings or using third-party tools designed to block ads.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, why not share this guide with friends or family who might be equally frustrated with ads? Happy computing!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.