
WhatsApp is not only used on smartphones but can also be accessed on laptops via WhatsApp Web or the WhatsApp Desktop application. However, WhatsApp notifications that appear on the laptop screen can often disrupt concentration, compromise privacy, or even pose a risk of information leakage if seen by others.
Therefore, it is important for users to know the correct way to disable WhatsApp notifications on a laptop. This article will thoroughly discuss how to disable WhatsApp notifications through the WhatsApp Desktop app, WhatsApp Web in the browser, and the Windows and macOS operating system settings.
1. Disabling Notifications on WhatsApp Desktop (Windows and macOS)
WhatsApp Desktop is the official application that can be downloaded from the official WhatsApp website or through Microsoft Store and App Store.
To turn off notifications on WhatsApp Desktop, follow these steps:
- Open the WhatsApp Desktop application on your laptop.
- At the top, click the menu icon (three dots or horizontal lines).
- Select the Settings menu.
- Go to the Notifications menu.
- Uncheck the following options:
- Show previews.
- Sounds.
- Desktop alerts or Show banner notifications.
- Show previews.
- After completing these settings, WhatsApp Desktop will no longer display notifications on the screen or play sounds.
These settings are device-specific, so if you log in on another device, the settings must be reconfigured.
2. Disabling Notifications on WhatsApp Web (Browser)
For those using WhatsApp through a browser (web.whatsapp.com), notifications can also be turned off directly from the site’s settings:
- Log in to WhatsApp Web in your browser.
- Click the gear symbol (⚙) in the lower left corner..
- Select Notifications.
- Disable options such as:
- Message notifications.
- Sounds.
- Show previews.
- Message notifications.
After these settings are adjusted, WhatsApp Web will no longer display notifications when new messages arrive.
Additional: Block Notifications via Browser Settings
If you wish to fully block WhatsApp Web notifications through your browser, follow these steps:
- Click the lock icon in the address bar while on WhatsApp Web.
- Select Site settings.
- In the Notifications section, change the setting to Block.
This will prevent your browser from granting any notification permissions to WhatsApp Web.
3. Disabling WhatsApp Notifications via Windows Settings
Windows 10 and Windows 11 have notification control features that allow users to disable notifications from specific apps, including WhatsApp.
Steps:
- Open Settings (Windows Settings).
- Select System > Notifications.
- Find the WhatsApp application (either WhatsApp Desktop or Web if installed as PWA).
- Slide the Allow notifications toggle to off.
With this method, the Windows operating system will completely stop showing any WhatsApp notifications, including banners, sounds, or Action Center alerts.
4. Disabling WhatsApp Notifications on macOS
If you are using a MacBook or iMac, follow these steps to disable WhatsApp notifications:
- Open System Preferences or System Settings for older macOS versions.
- Select Notifications & Focus.
- Find and select the WhatsApp application.
- Turn off the Allow Notifications option.
Once disabled, macOS will no longer display WhatsApp notifications in the Notification Center or as banners.
5. Use Do Not Disturb (Focus Mode)
As a quick alternative, you can also use the Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode feature on both Windows and macOS. This feature temporarily blocks all incoming notifications, including WhatsApp, for a selected period.
For Windows:
- Navigate to Settings > System > Focus Assist to turn it on.
For macOS:
- Locate System Settings > Focus and select the mode of your choice.
This feature is especially useful during meetings, presentations, or when working without interruptions.
Conclusion
By following the complete guide above, you have full flexibility to manage WhatsApp notifications on your laptop as needed. Whether using WhatsApp Desktop, WhatsApp Web, or operating system settings, everything can be configured easily without requiring additional applications.
Properly managing notifications not only enhances productivity but also helps maintain your privacy when using your laptop in public spaces or work environments.