How to Block Ads on Microsoft Edge in Windows 10
Dealing with ads while browsing can really ruin the experience. Luckily, if you’re using Microsoft Edge on Windows 10, there are simple ways to minimise or completely block those pesky ads. The trick is to install an ad blocker extension, which you can easily find through Edge’s built-in add-ons store.
Launching Edge
First up, open the Microsoft Edge browser. You’ll typically find it on your desktop or taskbar — just click on it. Since it’s part of Windows 10, most people know how to get it going. For a bit of a fancy move, you could start it with PowerShell or Command Prompt using start msedge, but let’s keep things straightforward for now.
Accessing the Extension Store
Once you’re in the browser, head over to the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store. You can simply type “Edge Add-ons” in the address bar to skip a few steps. If you prefer navigating through menus:
- Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
- Select Extensions.
- Scroll down a bit, and you’ll see Get extensions for Microsoft Edge.
Within this store, it’s like a workshop for your browser, filled with extensions and tools to make your browsing smoother and safer.
Choosing the Right Ad Blocker
In the store’s search bar, type “ad blocker” and press Enter. A list of options will appear — think of it as a buffet. Popular choices like “AdBlock” and “uBlock Origin” are favourites because they’re lightweight and effective. Check the reviews and what users are saying — it really helps when making your pick.
Installing Your Ad Blocker
Found a good one? Click on it to see what it does before you add it. Hit the “Get” button to install. You might be asked to grant permissions — it’s always wise to review what it’s asking for before clicking Allow.
After Installation
Once your ad blocker is up and running, you’ll notice a big drop in ads as you browse. It’s like flicking a switch. Webseiten tend to load faster too — a quick way to check is to look at the Network tab in Developer Tools (press F12 if you’re curious). Many users report that their browsing feels much smoother now, especially on sites usually swamped with ads. Plus, a good ad blocker can also protect your data from trackers embedded in ads, making your online experience safer.
Expert Tips for Blocking Ads on Windows 10
- Keep your ad blocker up to date; visit the extension page or check edge://extensions to see if updates are needed.
- Some websites rely on ads for revenue, so if it’s a site you love, consider whitelisting it. Just click the extension icon and toggle Pause/Disable for this site.
- If one ad blocker doesn’t do the trick, try a different one. Results can vary depending on the site.
- Review extension permissions before installing to keep things secure.
- Occasionally, some sites may prompt you to disable your ad blocker — you can usually do this via the extension’s menu with a quick toggle.
Common Questions About Ad Blocking in Edge on Windows 10
What does an ad blocker do?
Simply put, it stops ads from cluttering your screen. In Edge, this is handled through extensions that filter out unwanted ads, leading to a cleaner, less cluttered browsing experience.
Can ad blockers interfere with website functions?
Yes, sometimes they can. Some sites rely on scripts that ad blockers might block, which can cause parts of the site to not load properly. If that happens, most extensions let you disable them just for that site — usually via the menu to pause or disable the blocker for that particular webpage.
Is it legal to use ad blockers?
Generally, yes — they’re perfectly legal. Just keep in mind some sites ask you to disable your ad blocker because they depend on ad revenue. It’s a balancing act: enjoy an ad-free browsing experience while supporting your favourite sites.
Do ad blockers work on all websites?
Not quite. Some sites have found ways around ad blockers, which means ads can still slip through. If one extension isn’t working well, trying a different one might do the trick.
Are there any costs involved with ad blockers?
Most of them are free, which is great. There are premium options like AdGuard that charge for extra features, but for most users, the free versions do the job fine.
Final Thoughts
Blocking ads on Microsoft Edge with Windows 10 is a game-changer. Whether it’s for faster browsing, better privacy, or just a cleaner look, the process is pretty straightforward. Open Edge, head to edge://extensions, pick an ad blocker extension that looks good, and install it. Just remember, many sites rely on ad revenue to keep running — so whitelisting your favourites is a good way to support them.
Keeping an eye on how these tools work — for example, using F12 in Developer Tools to monitor network requests — can help you take control of your web experience. Managing your ad blockers smartly can make your time online faster and more enjoyable. Hopefully, this guide will help save you a bit of time and hassle!