How to Fix and Stop Windows 10 Notifications and Alerts

6/24/20252 min read

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🛑 How to Turn Off Unwanted Notifications & Protect Privacy in Windows 10

Are you overwhelmed by constant pop-ups and alerts on Windows 10? Many users find Windows 10 notifications annoying, especially when they appear while working, gaming, or watching a video.

In this guide, you'll learn how to disable unnecessary notifications, enhance privacy settings, and optimize Windows 10 for a smoother experience.

🔔 How to Disable Excessive Windows 10 Notifications

Windows 10’s Action Center gathers all system and app notifications on the right side of your taskbar. While it's helpful for quick access, it can become a source of constant distraction if left unmanaged.

To control and stop unwanted notifications:

  1. Click the Start Menu and open Settings.

  2. Go to System > Notifications & actions.

  3. Under Get notifications from these senders, toggle off apps you don’t want alerts from.

💡 Pro Tip: Turn off tips, tricks, and suggestions from Windows to reduce spam-like popups.

🔒 Improve Your Privacy Settings in Windows 10

Windows 10's default privacy settings allow apps to access your camera, microphone, and personal data. To protect your privacy:

  1. Open Settings > Privacy.

  2. Review each section (Camera, Microphone, Contacts, etc.).

  3. Toggle off access for apps that don’t need it.

This helps secure your device from apps that may be silently collecting data.

🛡️ Configure Windows Defender for Better Protection

Windows Defender offers real-time protection, but you should still review its settings:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.

  2. Open Virus & threat protection settings.

  3. Enable or disable Cloud-delivered protection and Automatic sample submission based on your preferences.

Fine-tuning these options helps you strike the right balance between security and control.

📶 Disable Wi-Fi Sense to Prevent Network Sharing

Windows 10 comes with a feature called Wi-Fi Sense, which can automatically connect to public or shared networks. While convenient, it can also be a privacy risk.

To turn off Wi-Fi Sense:

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.

  2. Click Manage known networks or look for Wi-Fi Sense.

  3. Turn off:

    • Connect to suggested open hotspots

    • Connect to networks shared by my contacts

For extra protection, rename your home network’s SSID to end with “_optout” to prevent automatic sharing.

Also, create a guest Wi-Fi network for visitors to keep your main network secure.