Windows 11 offers a sleek and modern interface, but like its predecessors, it comes with built-in ads and promotional content that can disrupt your workflow. Whether it's suggested apps in the Start Menu, notifications pushing Microsoft services, or ads in File Explorer, these distractions can be frustrating. Fortunately, with a few strategic tweaks, you can reclaim a cleaner, ad-free Windows 11 experience. Here are nine essential methods to eliminate ads and bloatware from your system.

1. Disable Start Menu Recommendations

The Windows 11 Start Menu often displays suggested apps and content. To turn these off:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Navigate to Personalization > Start.
  3. Toggle off Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more.

This prevents Microsoft from pushing apps and services you don’t need.

2. Turn Off Notifications for Tips & Ads

Windows 11 may send promotional notifications. Disable them by:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Notifications.
  2. Under Additional settings, disable Suggest ways I can finish setting up my device and Get tips and suggestions when using Windows.

3. Remove Ads from File Explorer

File Explorer sometimes displays Microsoft promotions in the "Home" section. To disable:

  1. Open File Explorer (Win + E).
  2. Click the three-dot menu (…) and select Options.
  3. Under the General tab, uncheck Show sync provider notifications and Show frequently used folders in Quick access.

4. Uninstall Preinstalled Bloatware

Windows 11 includes apps like Candy Crush and Spotify. Remove them via:

  1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Search for unwanted apps (e.g., "Candy Crush").
  3. Click the three-dot menu and select Uninstall.

For a deeper clean, use PowerShell:

Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.YourPhone* | Remove-AppxPackage

5. Disable Widgets (If Not Needed)

The Widgets panel often displays news and ads. To disable:

  1. Right-click the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
  2. Toggle off Widgets.

Alternatively, disable it via Group Policy (for Pro users):

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Widgets.
  3. Enable Turn off Widgets.

6. Block Microsoft Edge Promotions

Windows 11 may prompt you to switch to Edge. Disable these prompts:

  1. Open Settings > Privacy & security > General.
  2. Disable Show me suggested content in the Settings app.
  3. In Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services and disable Show promotions.

7. Opt Out of Personalized Ads

Microsoft uses your data for targeted ads. Opt out by:

  1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > General.
  2. Disable Let apps show me personalized ads and Let Windows improve Start and search results by tracking app launches.
  3. Visit Microsoft’s ad settings page to further limit ad tracking.

8. Clean Up Lock Screen Ads

The lock screen may show tips or promotions. Disable them:

  1. Open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
  2. Under Personalize your lock screen, select Picture or Slideshow (not "Windows Spotlight").
  3. Toggle off Get fun facts, tips, and more from Windows and Cortana.

9. Use a Local Account (Instead of Microsoft Account)

A Microsoft account syncs data and may enable ads. Switch to a local account:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
  2. Click Sign in with a local account instead and follow the prompts.

Final Thoughts

While Windows 11 is a powerful OS, its built-in ads can be intrusive. By applying these tweaks, you can enjoy a cleaner, distraction-free experience. For advanced users, tools like ShutUp10 or editing the Registry can provide even more control over Windows telemetry and ads.

Remember to back up your system before making major changes, and stay updated—Microsoft occasionally reintroduces ads in updates, so periodic checks are recommended.