Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, and it comes with a redesigned Start Menu that includes recommendations for apps and content. While some users find these recommendations helpful, others may prefer to disable them for a more streamlined experience. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to disable recommendations for the Start Menu in Windows 11.
Method 1: Using the Settings App
The easiest way to disable recommendations for the Start Menu in Windows 11 is through the Settings app. Here's how:
- Click on the Start button in the taskbar or press the Windows key on your keyboard to open the Start Menu.
- Click on the Settings icon (represented by a gear) in the left sidebar of the Start Menu. Alternatively, you can press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to directly open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, click on the "Personalization" category.
- In the left sidebar, click on "Start."
- Scroll down to the "Show recommendations in Start" section.
- Toggle the switch to the off position to disable recommendations.
Once you have completed these steps, the Start Menu will no longer display recommendations for apps and content.
Method 2: Using Group Policy Editor
If you are using a Windows 11 edition that includes the Group Policy Editor, you can also use this method to disable recommendations for the Start Menu. Here's how:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type "gpedit.msc" (without quotes) in the Run dialog box and press Enter.
- In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:
User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar - Double-click on the "Show recommendations in Start Menu" policy in the right pane.
- Select the "Disabled" option.
- Click on the "Apply" button and then click "OK" to save the changes.
After completing these steps, the Start Menu in Windows 11 will no longer show recommendations for apps and content.
Method 3: Using Registry Editor
If you are comfortable working with the Windows Registry, you can use this method to disable recommendations for the Start Menu. Here's how:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type "regedit" (without quotes) in the Run dialog box and press Enter.
- In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced - Right-click on an empty space in the right pane and select "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value."
- Name the new value "Start_ShowRecommendedApps."
- Double-click on the newly created value and set its data to "0" (without quotes).
- Click "OK" to save the changes.
Once you have finished these steps, the Start Menu in Windows 11 will no longer display recommendations for apps and content.
That's it! You have successfully disabled recommendations for the Start Menu in Windows 11. Enjoy a clutter-free Start Menu tailored to your preferences.
References
| Number | Source |
|---|---|
| 1 | Microsoft Support - Personalize your PC |
| 2 | Windows Central - How to disable recommended apps in the Start Menu on Windows 11 |