Pop up notifications can be annoying and distracting when you are trying to use your computer. However, they serve an important purpose by alerting you to new messages, updates, and other events that require your attention. With some simple tweaks to your settings, you can take control of pop up notifications and prevent unwanted disruptions.
Why am I getting pop up notifications?
There are a few common triggers for pop up notifications on your computer:
- New emails – Email services like Gmail and Outlook will display pop ups when you receive a new message.
- Calendar alerts – Calendar apps send notifications to remind you about upcoming appointments and events.
- Software updates – Apps and programs may notify you when a new version is available for download.
- News/weather alerts – Media and weather apps provide pop up alerts for breaking news or severe weather warnings.
- Social media – Social platforms like Facebook and Twitter use notifications to inform you about new posts, messages, and other activity.
- System notifications – Your operating system may use pop ups for errors, warnings, and prompts requiring your input.
Many applications allow you to enable or disable notifications in their settings, giving you control over when pop ups appear.
How to disable pop up notifications
If you want to turn off pop up notifications entirely, you have a few options:
Disable notifications for individual apps
Most applications that generate notifications include settings to turn pop ups on or off. Refer to the app’s help documentation for specific instructions. Typical steps include:
- Open the app’s preferences/settings window
- Look for a “Notifications” section
- Toggle notifications off or select the types of alerts you want to keep receiving
Disable notifications on a case-by-case basis for apps that don’t need to send you pop ups.
Adjust notification settings for your operating system
You can also manage notifications at the operating system level:
Windows 10:
- Open the Start menu and select “Settings”
- Choose “System” then “Notifications & actions”
- Toggle notifications off for any app or reduce the notification level
MacOS:
- Click the Apple icon and choose “System Preferences”
- Select “Notifications & Focus”
- Choose each app listed and disable notifications
This will prevent notifications from appearing for all apps on your system.
Use a third-party notification manager
Specialty software exists to give you heightened control over notifications. These tools allow you to customize notifications in detail. Popular options include:
- FocusMe – Blocks distractions and manages notifications during work hours. Lets you silence specific apps.
- BarbBlock – Uses AI to filter annoying notifications. Features “Zen Mode” to disable all pop ups.
- Notifier – Highly configurable tool to route notifications, alter behavior, and add rules.
Try out different notification managers to see if they align with your preferences.
Customize notifications for less disruption
For important alerts you want to keep receiving, tailor them so they’re less distracting:
- Reduce frequency – Only get notified about repeat events like emails on a timed interval, not constantly.
- Bundle notifications – Group similar alerts into one summary notification instead of individual pop ups.
- Alter display – Change features like notification size, color, sounds, and banner duration.
- Prioritize sources – Mark high priority senders whose notifications always show prominently.
Take time to explore your notification options for each app. You can usually find advanced settings to make notifications work better for your needs.
Troubleshoot common notification issues
If you are still seeing unwanted notifications after adjusting settings, try these troubleshooting tips:
Check app permissions
Make sure each app has permission to generate notifications. Disable notification access for suspicious or unused apps.
Update apps and operating system
Outdated software can cause notification glitches. Install the latest versions and patches.
Restart your device
Rebooting your computer resets settings and clears any stuck notifications.
Reset notifications
Some apps feature an option to reset notifications and clear stuck pop ups.
Uninstall/reinstall apps
Deleting and reinstalling an app can clear up notification issues specific to that program.
If problems persist, your operating system may require deeper troubleshooting with help from tech support.
Conclusion
With some strategic adjustments, you can tame pop up notifications so they provide useful alerts without constant distractions. Take time to explore notification settings for your apps and operating system to discover options that meet your needs. Curate a selection of priority notifications while sending unwanted ones to the background.