How to Configure Notifications in Windows 11

Learn how to manage and customize your notification settings in Windows 11 to reduce distractions and stay organized.

1. Access the Notifications menu. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard. Navigate to System in the left sidebar, then select Notifications to view your current alert configuration.
2. Set the global notification status. Use the primary toggle at the top of the menu to enable or disable all notifications. If you prefer a clean workspace, toggle this to Off to suppress every alert, including system pop-ups.
3. Restrict app-specific notifications. Scroll down to the list labeled Notifications from apps and other senders. Toggle the switch next to any specific application to silence its alerts without affecting your global settings.
4. Enable Do Not Disturb. Return to the main Notifications menu and click on Do not disturb to toggle it to On. This silences all notifications except for those explicitly added to your Priority list.
5. Adjust notification delivery behavior. Expand the Additional settings section at the bottom of the Notifications menu. Uncheck boxes for 'Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device' and 'Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows' to minimize OS-generated alerts.
6. Verify focus assist settings. Select the Focus icon in the Taskbar or Settings to ensure that your focus session settings align with your notification preferences. Focus automatically enables Do Not Disturb when active.