How to turn off notifications on Windows 11

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Pop-ups in the corner of the screen interrupt work and show up during presentations. You can silence everything, only certain apps, or only at certain times.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

1. Open Settings, System, Notifications

   Press Windows + I, stay on System and click Notifications.

   Done

2. Stop all notifications

   Use the Notifications switch at the top. This is the bluntest option, and you will also miss reminders and messages.

   Done

3. Or switch off single apps

   Scroll to "Notifications from apps and other senders" and switch off the apps you do not want to hear from. Click an app to change only its banners, sound or lock screen display.

   Done

4. Use Do not disturb for quiet time

   Click the time and date at the right of the taskbar to open the notification centre, then click the bell with "zZ". Notifications are collected silently until you turn it off.

   Done

5. Set it to turn on by itself

   Back in Settings, open "Turn on do not disturb automatically". You can choose certain hours, and times when you duplicate your display, play a game or use an app in full screen.

   Done

Good to know

Under "Set priority notifications" you choose what may still come through during Do not disturb, such as calls and reminders or particular apps.

Notifications from websites are controlled in the browser, under its site permissions.

Missed notifications stay in the notification centre until you clear them.

In short: Settings, System, Notifications. Switch off everything or single apps, or use Do not disturb.