Cleaning Up a Clean Install of Windows 11 and Edge: Minimizing Annoying Notifications and Unwanted Apps
In the world of technology, nostalgia often creeps in when we think about the good old days of Windows XP or Windows 7. Back then, a “clean install” of Windows meant getting rid of all the unnecessary software that came pre-installed on your PC. It was a way to improve performance and get rid of annoying trials and games that were bundled with the system. However, with the release of Windows 11, the concept of a clean install has changed.
Windows 11 offers multiple official ways to download and create an install disk, making it easier than ever to start fresh. However, the resulting installation is not as “clean” as it used to be. Microsoft has been integrating more of its apps and services into the core Windows experience, leading to an increase in annoying notifications and unwanted apps.
For those who use Windows and Microsoft Edge, it can be frustrating to deal with these notifications and apps. That’s why Andrew Cunningham, a writer for Ars Technica, shares his process of cleaning up a clean install of Windows 11 to minimize these annoyances. While his usage patterns may be atypical for many readers, his tips can still be useful for anyone looking to streamline their Windows experience.
Avoiding Microsoft Account Sign-In
One contentious aspect of Windows 11’s setup process is the mandatory Microsoft account sign-in. Unlike previous versions of Windows, there are no apparent “limited account” options during setup. This can be problematic for users who don’t want to sign in with a Microsoft account or prefer certain user folder locations.
Cunningham provides two options for avoiding Microsoft account sign-in during setup. The first option involves using the command line by pressing Shift+F10 to open the command prompt and typing a specific command. The second option is for Windows 11 Pro users and involves selecting the “work or school” option during setup, even if it’s not applicable.
Using the Rufus Tool
Cunningham also suggests using the Rufus tool, an open-source app for creating bootable USB media, to customize the Windows 11 install media. This allows users to always have access to the “limited setup” options, regardless of the Windows edition being used. By tweaking the install media, users can avoid the Microsoft account requirement and tailor the installation to their preferences.
Cleaning Up Windows 11
Once the Windows 11 installation is complete, Cunningham recommends a few additional steps to clean up the system. This includes uninstalling any third-party apps and shortcuts that were automatically installed during the initial setup. By right-clicking on these apps in the Start menu, users can easily remove them from their system.
Cunningham also provides a list of built-in Windows 11 apps that can be removed from the Installed Apps section of the Settings app. This allows users to customize their system further by removing unnecessary apps and freeing up space.
Other Settings Changes
To minimize annoying notifications and messages, Cunningham suggests making changes to various Windows settings. This includes turning off certain features like Copilot, Widgets, and suggested notifications. By disabling these features, users can create a less intrusive Windows experience.
Cleaning Up Microsoft Edge
For those using Microsoft Edge as their browser, Cunningham shares his tips for maximizing its usefulness while minimizing distractions. This involves turning off sponsored links, content suggestions, and various other settings that Microsoft has added to Edge over the years. By customizing Edge to their preferences, users can create a more streamlined browsing experience.
Windows-as-a-Nuisance
While there have been many positive aspects of the Windows-as-a-service era, such as improved hardware support and easier upgrades, Microsoft’s tendency to push its own apps and services can be frustrating. The default settings in Windows allow Microsoft to add or remove built-in apps and taskbar icons without user consent. However, by following the recommended settings changes, users can regain control over their Windows experience and reduce the constant hassle of unwanted notifications.
In conclusion, cleaning up a clean install of Windows 11 and Edge involves a series of steps to minimize annoying notifications and unwanted apps. By avoiding Microsoft account sign-in, using tools like Rufus, uninstalling unnecessary apps, and making changes to various settings, users can create a more personalized and streamlined Windows experience. While these tips may not solve all the issues, they can certainly help users regain control over their PCs and reduce frustration.