Understanding the Source of the Ads
It is a common misconception that the Logitech M720 Multi-Device Mouse contains built-in advertising capabilities. The device is a passive input peripheral; it does not have an internal screen or network adapter capable of displaying content independently. The "ads" you see are actually promotional pop-ups, update notifications, or feature suggestions delivered by the companion desktop application known as Logi Options+. This software bridges the gap between the mouse's hardware buttons and Windows 11, allowing for button remapping, DPI adjustment, and multi-device switching.
When Logitech releases new features, security updates, or partner promotions, the application triggers system-level notifications. These appear in the Windows Action Center or as floating banners on the desktop. Because the software is designed to encourage engagement with the Logitech ecosystem, these notifications are enabled by default upon installation. Disabling them requires interacting directly with the software interface rather than changing Windows registry keys or using third-party ad blockers, which typically cannot distinguish between legitimate system notifications and malicious ads.
Disabling Notifications via Logi Options+
The most direct method to stop these interruptions is to turn off notification permissions within the Logi Options+ application. Follow these steps carefully to ensure the settings are applied correctly.
- Open the Application: Locate the Logi Options+ icon in your Windows taskbar notification area (system tray). If you do not see it, check the hidden icons section or search for "Logi Options+" in the Start menu. Right-click the icon and select Open Logi Options+.
- Navigate to Settings: Once the main window opens, look for the gear icon or the Settings tab, usually located in the top-right corner or within the sidebar. Click on it to access the global configuration panel.
- Locate Notification Preferences: Within the Settings menu, find the section labeled Notifications or General. You will see toggles for various types of alerts, such as "Product Updates," "Feature Tips," and "Promotional Offers."
- Disable Unwanted Alerts: Toggle the switches for Promotional Offers and Feature Tips to the OFF position. Keep "Critical Updates" enabled if you wish to receive security patches, but this can also be disabled if you prefer manual control over updates.
- Apply and Close: Ensure the changes are saved. The application may prompt you to restart or apply changes immediately. Close the window and test the mouse by moving it around to verify that no pop-ups appear.
Alternative Method: Using Older Logitech Software
If the Logi Options+ interface does not provide sufficient control over notifications, or if you prefer a lighter footprint, you may consider using the legacy Logitech SetPoint software. While Logitech has largely moved users to Options+, SetPoint remains available for download on their support site for older devices like the M720.
SetPoint has a more traditional configuration dialog that often includes explicit checkboxes for marketing communications during the installation process. If you choose to switch, uninstall Logi Options+ first to prevent conflicts. Install SetPoint, and during the setup wizard, carefully read each step to uncheck any boxes related to receiving news, offers, or product recommendations. After installation, navigate to the SetPoint preferences menu and ensure that "Show tips and tricks" is unchecked. This method provides a more granular level of control for users who want to minimize background processes.
Managing Windows Notification Permissions
In some cases, even after disabling in-app notifications, Windows 11 might still display residual alerts due to cached permissions. You can reinforce the block by managing app permissions at the OS level.
- Open Windows Settings (
Win + I). - Navigate to System > Notifications.
- Scroll down to the list of apps and find Logi Options+.
- Toggle the main switch to Off. This prevents the application from sending any toast notifications to the Action Center, regardless of its internal settings.
This approach is particularly useful if you suspect the software is behaving erratically or if you plan to use a different mouse management tool in the future. It effectively silences the application without removing it entirely from your system.
Removing the Software Entirely
If you only use basic click, scroll, and left/right button functions, you likely do not need Logi Options+ or SetPoint at all. Windows 11 recognizes the M720 as a standard HID (Human Interface Device) out of the box. Removing the software eliminates the source of the ads completely.
To do this, go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, find Logi Options+, and select Uninstall. Restart your computer. The mouse will continue to function perfectly for standard tasks. Note that you will lose the ability to customize button mappings or sync settings across multiple devices, but for many users, this trade-off is worth the peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will disabling Logi Options+ break my mouse's connectivity?
No, the mouse will continue to work normally via its USB receiver or Bluetooth connection. The software is only required for advanced customization features like button remapping or multi-device switching profiles. Basic input signals are handled directly by the Windows operating system drivers.
Can I use a firewall rule to block the ads?
While technically possible, blocking specific domains via a firewall is not recommended because Logi Options+ communicates with multiple servers for updates, diagnostics, and cloud syncing. Blocking traffic entirely may cause the software to malfunction or fail to connect to paired devices. It is safer to disable notifications through the application settings instead.
Why do the ads come back after a Windows update?
Windows updates sometimes reset certain permission settings or reinstall background services. Additionally, Logitech may push a forced update to Logi Options+ that re-enables default notification preferences. Always check the notification settings in Logi Options+ after major Windows updates to ensure they remain disabled.
Is it safe to delete the Logi Options+ folder manually?
Manually deleting files from the Program Files directory is not recommended as it can leave orphaned registry entries and scheduled tasks that may still trigger notifications. Use the official Uninstaller via Windows Settings or Control Panel to ensure a clean removal of all associated components.
Does the Logitech M720 have any other sources of pop-ups?
No, the hardware itself is incapable of generating pop-ups. Any visual alert on your screen originates from software running on your PC. If you see ads when the mouse is disconnected, they are unrelated to the mouse and likely caused by other applications or browser extensions on your Windows 11 machine.