How can I disable Microsoft ads?

Question

My Windows 10 Home Edition computer frequently pops up various ads for Microsoft services. For example, just now it popped up a dialog that said "Make logging in even easier! Install Microsoft Authenticate" or something like that. How can I disable this sort of activity?

Answer 1

There are many places within Windows 10 that can potentially be the source of those advertisements, but I believe that the modification you want is as follows:

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Notifications & actions
2. Select Off for Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows

That being said, with just a bit more time and effort you can be much more thorough when it comes to eliminating obtrusive Windows 10 advertisements by implementing the following changes:

Disable Lock Screen Ads

1. Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen
2. Set the Background to Picture or Slideshow instead of Windows Spotlight
3. Select Off for Get fun facts, tips, and more from Windows and Cortana on your lock screen

Stop Suggested Apps From Appearing in the Start Menu

1. Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Start
2. Select Off for Show suggestions occasionally in Start

Turn Off Ads from Windows Welcome Experience

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Notifications & actions
2. Select Off for Show me the Windows welcome experience after updates and occasionally when I sign in to highlight what’s new and suggested

Turn Off Ads in File Explorer

1. At the top of the File Explorer window click on View
2. Click on the Options button on the right side of the ribbon
3. In the subsequent Folder Options window click on the View tab
4. Scroll down the list of Advanced settings and uncheck Show sync provider notifications
5. Click the OK button to close the window

Remove Ads From the Windows Ink Workspace

1. Navigate to Settings > Devices > Pen & Windows Ink
2. Select Off for Show recommended app suggestions

Together, these adjustments should eliminate the most prolific built-in Windows 10 advertisements.

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Sources:
Disable Advertising in Windows 10
How to Disable All of Windows 10’s Built-in Advertising