How to Configure Notifications in Windows 11

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   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.

   Note: You can also search for Notifications directly in the Start menu search bar.
2. 30 sec

   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. 1 min

   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.

   Note: Select the arrow icon next to an app name to configure banner and sound settings for that specific application.
4. 1 min

   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.

   Note: Use the 'Set automatic rules' section to schedule Do Not Disturb hours.
5. 1 min

   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. 30 sec

   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.

   Note: Closing the Settings window automatically saves all applied changes.