Setting up a new Windows 11 laptop can be both exciting and overwhelming. The software offers a myriad of features, but wading through settings that don't enhance your experience can be frustrating. Streamlining these settings not only makes using Windows enjoyable, but provides a more tailored interface suited to your needs.

Focus on Privacy and Customization

Among the first steps to a more personalized Windows experience is the adjustment of privacy settings. Windows 11 utilizes location services and an advertising ID by default, which might not appeal to everyone. Reducing location permissions helps safeguard your privacy, and disabling the advertising ID ensures you're not targeted with personalized ads based on your activities.

Customization doesn't stop at privacy: consider modifying the placement of the Start Menu to suit your workflow. Changing its position can significantly improve accessibility and user comfort. With Windows 11 allowing such personalization, make sure to adjust the Start Menu to a location that feels intuitive to you.

Managing Notifications and Unnecessary Features

Another area worth tackling is notifications. By trimming down notifications to only those essential to your daily routine, you can minimize distractions and maintain focus. Windows 11 provides a plethora of apps competing for attention, so set priorities and disable alerts that don't serve a real-time purpose.

The lock screen is often one of the first elements encountered when powering up your laptop. Customize or clean this surface to remove clutter, ensuring that only pertinent information is at hand. Removing unwanted apps or bloatware that come pre-installed with the operating system can significantly enhance both startup time and overall device performance.

A Streamlined Experience

  • Clean the lock screen for a more focused starting point.
  • Move the Start Menu to improve accessibility.
  • Reduce notifications to eliminate daily distractions.
  • Disable the advertising ID to maintain privacy.
  • Adjust location permissions according to comfort.

Taking the time to modify these key settings can make your new Windows 11 laptop more efficient right from the start. By focusing on privacy, customization, and trimming unnecessary notifications, users can enjoy a more serene working environment. These changes transform a sometimes overwhelming interface into an efficient tool that works exactly the way you want.

Close All Windows

Close All Windows download for free to PC or mobile

Quickly close all active windows to declutter your desktop and streamline tasks.

4
556 reviews
3263 downloads

News and reviews about Close All Windows

28 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Start Menu Lacks Manual App Controls

Windows 11's Start menu lacks manual category control, placing many apps in 'Other.' Microsoft is reviewing user feedback.

Read more

28 Jan 2026

Microsoft Tests New Windows 11 Builds in Dev Channel

Microsoft launches Windows 11 26300 series for Insider testing, aiming to enhance platform stability and rollout.

Read more

27 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Users Shift Back to Windows 10 Amid Issues

Windows 11's market share declines as users revert to Windows 10 due to bugs and instability.

Read more

27 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Surpasses Windows 10 in Gaming Performance

Hardware Unboxed found Windows 11 now leads Windows 10 in gaming performance, notably in 4K. Microsoft plans more optimizations by 2026.

Read more

27 Jan 2026

Windows 10 Support Nears End as Users Resist Windows 11

Windows 10's extended support ends 2026-10-13. Many users still resist Windows 11, impacting future security and update coverage.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Windows 7 and Vista Return Unofficially in 2026

In 2026, Windows 7 and Vista reemerge through modder-created ISOs. Users gain up-to-date security updates despite official support ending.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Fixes Follow Windows 11 2026 Update Issues

Microsoft addressed Windows 11 issues from January 2026 updates with out-of-band fixes, impacting users worldwide.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Windows 11 to Receive Major Updates in 2026

Microsoft plans two major Windows 11 updates in 2026: Version 26H1 for Snapdragon X2 PCs and Version 26H2 for all users, adding new features.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Start Menu Update Enhances Functionality

Windows 11 redesigns its Start Menu for improved user experience; expanded app view and new options streamline navigation.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Microsoft May Shift to Linux for Future Desktops

Microsoft might consider adopting a Linux-based desktop, as Windows 11 faces scrutiny and gaming shifts towards SteamOS.

Read more