“Pop-up” can describe several different things on a Windows 10 PC: browser windows, website notifications, Windows app notifications, or suspicious advertisements caused by unwanted software. The correct fix depends on which type you are seeing.
If a Website Opens Pop-Up Windows in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has a built-in pop-up blocker that is enabled by default. If a particular website is still opening new windows or tabs, check Edge’s site permissions and make sure pop-ups and redirects are blocked for that site.
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Open Settings.
- Open the browser’s site-permission controls.
- Find Pop-ups and redirects.
- Make sure blocking is enabled and review any sites you previously allowed.
If the “Pop-Ups” Are Website Notifications
Website notifications are different from browser pop-up windows. They can appear in the Windows notification area even when the website itself is not open.
- Open Edge Settings.
- Open Privacy, search, and services, then the site’s permissions.
- Find the website that is sending unwanted notifications.
- Change its Notifications permission to Block.
If They Are Windows App Notifications
Windows applications can also display notifications. Use Windows notification settings to turn off notifications from a specific app instead of changing your browser’s pop-up settings.
If Ads Appear Everywhere
Unexpected ads that appear outside a normal website, browser redirects you did not request, changed search settings, or repeated fake security warnings can indicate an unwanted browser extension or potentially unwanted software. Review installed browser extensions and applications, remove software you do not recognize, and run a scan with Windows Security or another trusted security product.
Do not click a frightening pop-up that claims your PC is infected and tells you to call a phone number, install a remote-access tool, or pay immediately.
Do Not Disable Every Notification
Notifications can include useful security, update, calendar, and communication alerts. It is usually better to identify the specific browser, website, or app responsible and disable that source rather than turning off every Windows notification.
Windows 10 Is Past Ordinary Support
Microsoft ended ordinary Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. Windows 10 PCs still operate, but Microsoft no longer provides the normal free security fixes, feature updates, or technical support for standard Windows 10 installations. Eligible devices may have temporary Extended Security Updates options. If your PC supports Windows 11, moving to a supported version of Windows is the better long-term security plan.
Summary
First identify whether the interruption is a browser pop-up, website notification, Windows app notification, or suspicious software. Change the setting for that specific source, and run a trusted security scan if the behavior looks malicious or occurs outside normal websites.