How to clear or disable recent Files and folders in Windows 11’s start menu
By default, whenever you click the Start menu in Windows 11, you’ll see a “Recommended” section that includes a list of files and folders you’ve opened recently. the goal of the Recent items list is to make it easy for you to access files that you use often. But sometimes, it’s a good idea to clear the list and start fresh.
How to manuel clear your Recent Files in Windows 11
Method 1:
You can remove an entry from the recently opened programs list by right clicking on the item, and select Remove from this list.
Method2:
Open File Explorer. From any explorer window click in the “… “ at the end of the menu bar. Then From the dropdown menu click in “Options“.
Under “Privacy” in the General tab of the pop-up window that appears, click the “Clear” button to immediately clear all your Recent Files, then click “ OK button.”
How to disable Frequent folders or Recent files in Windows 11 Quick Access
Disable the recent program list by using following guide.
Method 1:
In Settings, locate the sidebar and click “Personalization.” In the options on the right side of the window, scroll down and select “Start.”
Now, flip on the “Show most used apps” switch. The next time you open the Start menu, you won’t see your recent files in the “Recommended” section anymore.
Method2:
Open File Explorer. Click on View on the command bar. And select on Show.
From any explorer window click in the ” … “ at the end of the menu bar. Then From the dropdown menu click in “Options”.
In Folder Options dialog, go to Privacy section and uncheck “Show frequently used folders in Quick access” and to disable your frequently used folders from being displayed in Quick access.
Also, uncheck “Show recently used files in Quick access” to disable your recently used files from being displayed in Quick access.
Published date: Oct 2, 2021 Last edited: 24-11-2022