How to Enable or Disable Suggested Content in Windows 11
You disable suggested content in Windows 11 to stop personalized ads and tips from appearing on your device.
Suggested content, often referred to as recommendations or tips, utilizes your usage data to present tailored suggestions within the Start menu, Settings app, and other Windows interfaces. This feature aims to help you discover new apps, features, or even content, but many users find it distracting and a drain on privacy.
For example, Windows 11 might suggest apps you’ve never used or promote Microsoft services you don’t need. By disabling these settings, you reclaim control over your digital space and improve the overall cleanliness of your operating system experience.
How to disable suggested content in Settings
This is the safest way to change your preferences.
- Open the Windows Settings app.
- Select Privacy & security on the left.
- Click the General tile.
Look for Show me suggested content in the Settings app. Toggle the switch to Off. In newer builds like 23H2 or 24H2, you may also see options to disable Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more under Personalization > Start.
Advanced: Group Policy Editor (GPO)
Note: This requires admin privileges. This method is best for Windows 11 Pro users.
- Press ⊞ Win+R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. - Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Cloud Content.
- Double-click Turn off all Windows spotlight features and set it to Enabled.
Advanced: Registry Editor
Note: This requires admin privileges. Always back up your registry before editing.
Open the Registry Editor and go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ContentDeliveryManager
Find these items and set their value to 0:
SubscribedContent-338393EnabledSubscribedContent-353694EnabledSubscribedContent-353696Enabled
Restart your PC to finish.
Summary
You can easily disable suggested content in Windows 11 to remove ads and clutter. Use the Settings app for a simple toggle, or use the Group Policy and Registry Editor for more permanent control. These changes help debloat your system and improve your privacy without impacting essential Windows updates.
Why do recommendations reappear after a Windows update?
Windows updates often reset certain registry keys or policy settings to their default state to ensure new features are visible to users. If you have disabled these via manual registry tweaks, a major feature update may overwrite your changes, requiring you to re-apply your preferred settings to keep the interface clean.
Is it safe to modify the Registry for Windows recommendations?
It is generally safe if you only modify the specific keys mentioned. However, the Registry is a sensitive database. Always create a System Restore point or a full backup before making changes. Incorrect edits can cause system instability, so follow the paths exactly as provided in this guide.
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