Customize Windows 7 Notification Area with Local Group Policy

Managing Windows 7 Notifications with Local Group Policy Editor

For proficient PC users, the frequent appearance of balloon notifications can be disruptive, especially when they reiterate information already known. Some users may even prefer to eliminate all icons from the notification area entirely. This article details how to suppress these notifications utilizing the Local Group Policy Editor.

While individual notifications can be controlled through the Action Center, this method can be time-consuming depending on the number of running applications. We will demonstrate how to disable balloon pop-ups and, optionally, the entire notification area – including the system clock. Note that access to the Local Group Policy Editor is restricted to Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise editions of Windows 7, mirroring limitations found in Vista.

Accessing Local Group Policy Editor

To launch the Local Group Policy Editor, click the Start button and type "gpedit.msc" into the search field. Press Enter to execute the command.

Disabling Balloon Notifications

Balloon notifications can become particularly intrusive, especially with numerous applications running. Their constant appearance can be a significant distraction.

Navigate to the following path in the left pane: User Configuration \ Administrative Templates \ Start Menu and Taskbar.

Within the Settings section, locate and double-click "Turn off all balloon notifications."

Select "Enabled," then click Apply and OK to save the changes.

Disabling the Entire Notification Area

If you wish to completely hide all icons within the notification area on the taskbar, it can be disabled entirely. Begin by navigating to User Configuration \ Administrative Templates \ Start Menu and Taskbar in the left pane.

On the right side, under Settings, double-click "Hide the notification area."

Select "Enable" under Hide Notification Area, then click Apply and OK.

To also remove the clock, navigate to "Remove Clock from the system notification area" and enable this setting as well.

A system logoff and subsequent logon is required for these policy changes to take effect. Following this, the notification area will be completely clear of distractions.

For alternative methods to disable balloon notifications across all versions of Vista and Windows 7, a registry hack is available.

Further resources related to customizing the Notification Area include:

• How To Manage Action Center in Windows 7
• Disable Balloon Notifications in XP