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Follow these steps to remove ads in File Explorer

Ads in File Explorer can be distracting and reduce productivity, especially for professionals who need a clean and efficient workspace. Fortunately, it’s possible to remove these ads and restore a clutter-free experience. If you’re in Washington DC or anywhere else, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of removing ads from File Explorer in Windows 10.

 

Why Remove Ads from File Explorer?

Before diving into the steps, it’s worth understanding why you might want to remove ads from File Explorer:

  1. Enhanced Productivity: Ads can be distracting, interrupting your workflow and reducing productivity.
  2. Cleaner Interface: A clutter-free File Explorer interface allows for a more streamlined and organized workspace.
  3. Improved Focus: Without ads, you can focus better on your files and tasks at hand.

Now, let’s explore how to remove these ads effectively.

 

Step 1: Disable Suggestions in File Explorer

Windows 10 often displays suggestions and ads in the File Explorer’s Quick Access view. Here’s how to disable them:

  1. Open File Explorer: Click on the File Explorer icon on your taskbar or press Windows + E on your keyboard.
  2. Access Options: Click on the “View” tab at the top of the window, then select “Options” on the right side of the ribbon. This opens the Folder Options dialog.
  3. Navigate to Privacy Settings: In the Folder Options dialog, go to the “General” tab. Under the “Privacy” section, you’ll see options to “Show recently used files in Quick access” and “Show frequently used folders in Quick access.” Uncheck both options to prevent Windows from showing suggestions and ads.
  4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply,” then “OK” to save your changes. This will remove recent files and frequently used folders from Quick Access, reducing the likelihood of seeing promotional content.

Step 2: Turn Off Web Search Results

Windows 10 integrates web search results into File Explorer, which can sometimes include ads or promotional content. To turn off this feature:

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Privacy Settings: Go to “Privacy” and then select “Speech, inking & typing” on the left sidebar.
  3. Manage Search Permissions: Click on “Stop getting to know me” to disable web search integration with File Explorer.

Step 3: Adjust Start Menu and Taskbar Settings

Ads can also appear in the Start Menu and Taskbar, influencing File Explorer indirectly. Here’s how to adjust these settings:

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Personalization: Select “Personalization” from the list.
  3. Adjust Start Menu Settings: Click on “Start” on the left sidebar. Toggle off “Show suggestions occasionally in Start” to prevent ads and suggestions from appearing in the Start Menu.
  4. Configure Taskbar Settings: Go back to the main “Personalization” window and select “Taskbar.” Turn off “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows” to stop receiving promotional content on the Taskbar.

Step 4: Disable Notifications from Apps

Some apps might generate notifications that appear as ads in File Explorer. To manage these notifications:

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System Settings: Select “System,” then click on “Notifications & actions” on the left sidebar.
  3. Manage Notifications: Here, you can toggle off notifications for individual apps. Review the list and turn off notifications for any apps that send unwanted ads.

Step 5: Use Third-Party Tools

If you’re still encountering ads in File Explorer despite following the above steps, you might consider using third-party tools designed to block ads:

  1. Install Ad Blockers: Search for reputable ad-blocking software compatible with Windows 10. Tools like AdGuard or uBlock Origin can help block ads across various applications, including File Explorer.
  2. Configure the Tool: Follow the installation instructions and configure the ad blocker to filter out ads from File Explorer. Regularly update the ad blocker to maintain effectiveness.

Step 6: Regularly Update Windows

Keeping your Windows 10 operating system up-to-date ensures you have the latest security patches and bug fixes, which can sometimes address issues related to unwanted ads:

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Update & Security: Select “Update & Security” from the list.
  3. Check for Updates: Click on “Check for updates” and install any available updates. This will help ensure your system remains secure and free from unnecessary ads.

 

At Capital Techies, we specialize in optimizing your IT environment, including the removal of ads from File Explorer to enhance productivity and streamline your workspace. Our expert team employs proven techniques and tools to eliminate distractions, ensuring a clean and efficient user experience tailored to your needs. Whether you’re in Washington DC or beyond, Capital Techies is your top IT choice for effective ad removal and comprehensive support. Trust us to deliver solutions that improve your digital workspace, enhance focus, and maximize your operational efficiency.

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