Pop-up windows can be real bloody annoying, especially when you’re trying to get stuck into some work or just have a browse without being interrupted every five seconds. Luckily, stopping pop-ups in Windows 11 isn’t too tricky, but it can feel like Windows is throwing curveballs sometimes. So, here’s what’s worked for me after a bit of messing around — it’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing.
Stopping Pop-Ups on Windows 11
Let’s set the record straight—those pesky pop-ups pop up for heaps of reasons: browser settings, notification permissions, maybe some sneaky adware doing the rounds. So, here’s a step-by-step that should reduce a lot of the bother. Fair warning — some steps involve tinkering with settings or shortcuts and might not be foolproof, but it’s a good start.
Method 1: Tweak your browser’s pop-up blocker
This one’s pretty obvious but often overlooked. Every browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) has its own toggle for blocking pop-ups. On Chrome or Edge, you can usually find it in Settings > Privacy & Security > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects. Just switch that to “Blocked.”
This helps because most pop-ups you see are from websites, not your OS. If they’re still sneaking through, you might have malware messing with your browser, so have a squiz at your extensions and run a virus scan.
Pro tip: When you’re in your browser settings, also disable any dodgy extensions that might be injecting pop-ups. Sometimes adware drinks up there.
Method 2: Turn off notifications in Windows
The sneaky part — Windows notifications can sometimes trigger pop-up ads or alerts from apps. Head to Settings > System > Notifications. From here, turn off notifications for any apps you don’t trust, or just toggle “Get notifications from apps and other senders” off completely for a cleaner experience.
I found that just turning off notifications for some apps cut down 90% of the interruptions. Not sure why, but it works a treat.
Note: Sometimes, notifications from trusted apps are fine, but if they start playing up, best to switch them off for a bit.
Method 3: Adjust Windows security settings
Check out Windows Security > App & browser control. This controls things like SmartScreen, which sometimes blocks downloads or pop-ups that are actually safe. Turning off SmartScreen might help reduce false alarms, but do it only if you’re comfortable taking a slight risk.
To get there: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > App & browser control. From here, you can toggle SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge or some sites that trigger false positives.
Fair warning — turning off security features isn’t ideal, but sometimes it’s the only way if pop-ups are caused by over-zealous blocks.
Method 4: Use PowerShell or Command Prompt for adware cleanup
If the pop-ups are caused by malware or adware, a quick cleanup helps. Run scans with tools like Malwarebytes. Or, if you reckon it’s a lot of adware, you can run a PowerShell command to reset your browser settings, like:
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
This re-registers system apps and resets some settings that might be hijacked. But generally, malware scans are your best shot for stubborn pop-ups.
Method 5: Use third-party ad blockers or privacy tools
This isn’t a magic fix, but it definitely helps. Installing an extension like uBlock Origin on your browser can block most unwanted ads and scripts that cause pop-ups before they even appear. Some browsers have built-in blockers, but extensions usually do a better job.
Plus, tools like Privacy Badger can learn and block trackers that often generate pop-ups too.
Top Tips for Stopping Pop-Ups in Windows 11
- Keep your browser and Windows up-to-date — security patches help dodge pop-up malware.
- Install a decent ad blocker extension — cuts down a lot of that rubbish.
- Run regular malware scans — better safe than sorry.
- Switch off notifications from shady apps if they start acting dodgy.
- Consider changing browsers if one just won’t stop showing weird pop-ups. Some browsers are better at blocking them by default.
FAQs
Why do I keep getting pop-ups on Windows 11?
Most of the time it’s because your browser or notification settings are letting them slip past. Or malware has sneaked in and started mucking around. Check your browser settings first.
Can pop-ups harm my computer?
Some can be dodgy, especially if they involve malware. They might try to install rubbish or steal your data. Always stay alert with pop-ups, especially if they seem fishy or pop up out of nowhere.
Is there a way to stop pop-ups across all browsers at once?
Unfortunately not — each browser manages its own settings. But having a good ad blocker and scanning for malware goes a long way.
Do I need an ad blocker to stop pop-ups?
Not 100%, but it makes life a lot easier. Most pop-ups are ads or trackers, and an ad blocker can block the worst of them.
What if these steps don’t do the trick?
Then it’s time to run a thorough malware scan or consider resetting your Windows if the problem keeps persisting. Some issues just can’t be sorted out with tweaks alone.
In summary
- Check your browser’s pop-up blocker and turn it on if it’s off.
- Switch off notifications from dodgy apps in Settings.
- Tweak security settings in Windows Security if needed.
- Run malware scans if pop-ups keep coming back.
- Use ad blockers/extensions for that extra peace of mind.
Hope this saves someone a few hours. Pop-ups are a pain in the backside, but with these tips, it’s manageable — or at least a lot less frustrating.