Windows 11 introduced a modern, sleek interface packed with new features—and one of them is Widgets. These handy panels give you quick access to news, weather, calendar, traffic updates, and more. But not everyone finds them useful. For some, Widgets clutter the taskbar or consume unnecessary resources. If you’re one of those users, this guide will show you how to disable Widgets in Windows 11 quickly and easily.
Why Disable Widgets in Windows 11?
Before we get to the steps, let’s explore why some users choose to turn Widgets off:
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Save system resources – Widgets use RAM and background processes.
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Reduce distractions – No more news pop-ups or alerts when you hover over the icon.
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Cleaner taskbar look – A minimalist appearance without unnecessary icons.
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Prevent accidental activation – Avoid accidentally opening the Widgets panel while moving your mouse.
Different Ways to Disable Widgets in Windows 11
You can disable Widgets in several ways—some are quick and easy, while others permanently remove them for all users.
Method 1: Turn Off Widgets from the Taskbar
This is the fastest and simplest way.
Step 1: Right-click the Taskbar
Move your mouse to the taskbar and right-click anywhere on it.
Step 2: Select Taskbar Settings
From the context menu, click Taskbar settings.
Step 3: Toggle Off Widgets
In the Taskbar items section, turn off the switch next to Widgets.
Method 2: Disable Widgets via Settings App
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Personalization > Taskbar.
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Find Widgets under Taskbar items and turn the toggle Off.
Method 3: Disable Widgets Using Group Policy Editor (For Pro & Enterprise Users)
If you want a more permanent solution, use Group Policy.
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Widgets Policy
Go to:Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Widgets
Step 3: Configure Widget Settings
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Double-click Allow widgets.
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Select Disabled.
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Click Apply and then OK.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
The Widgets button should now be gone.
Method 4: Disable Widgets via Registry Editor (For All Editions)
If you’re using Windows 11 Home edition, this method works.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to the Widgets Key
Go to:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft
Step 3: Create a Widgets Key (If Not Exists)
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Right-click Microsoft > New > Key.
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Name it Dsh.
Step 4: Create a DWORD Value
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Right-click on the right panel > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
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Name it AllowNewsAndInterests.
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Set its value to 0.
Step 5: Restart Your PC
The Widgets should now be disabled.
Method 5: Uninstall Widgets (Optional)
If you want to completely remove Widgets:
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Open PowerShell as Administrator.
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Run the following command:
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Restart your computer.
How to Re-Enable Widgets in Windows 11
Miss them already? You can bring them back:
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Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and toggle Widgets On.
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Or reinstall the Windows Web Experience Pack from Microsoft Store.
Do Widgets Affect PC Performance?
For most users, Widgets don’t cause major slowdowns. However, on low-end laptops or older PCs, disabling them can free up system resources, especially if you rarely use them.
Advantages of Keeping Widgets Disabled
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Cleaner desktop environment
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Fewer distractions
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Slightly improved boot time and performance
Conclusion
Widgets are a cool feature for some but unnecessary for others. Thankfully, Windows 11 makes it easy to turn them off using the taskbar settings, Group Policy Editor, or even Registry Editor. Whether you want to temporarily hide them or permanently remove them, the choice is yours.
FAQs
1. Can I disable Widgets without admin rights?
Yes, you can turn them off via taskbar settings without admin access.
2. Will disabling Widgets affect other Windows features?
No, it only removes the Widgets panel—it doesn’t affect your apps or system.
3. Can I remove Widgets completely from Windows 11 Home?
Yes, using PowerShell or the Registry method works for Home edition.
4. Does disabling Widgets save battery on laptops?
It may help slightly, as it reduces background processes.
5. Can I enable Widgets again after uninstalling them?
Yes, you can reinstall the Windows Web Experience Pack from Microsoft Store.