Don’t show recent files Windows 11
In the fast-paced digital world we live in, managing our files and documents efficiently is crucial. Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, comes with a plethora of features designed to enhance user experience. One such feature is the “Show recently used files” option, which displays a list of recently accessed files and folders on the Start menu. However, some users may find this feature intrusive or unnecessary, and would prefer to keep their recent files hidden. In this article, we will guide you through the process of disabling the “Don’t show recent files” feature in Windows 11.
Understanding the “Don’t show recent files” feature
The “Don’t show recent files” feature in Windows 11 is designed to help users quickly access their recently used files and folders. By default, this feature is enabled, and it displays a list of recent files on the Start menu. This list is sorted by the date and time the files were last accessed, making it easier for users to find the files they need.
However, for privacy reasons or personal preference, some users may want to disable this feature. By doing so, the list of recent files will not be displayed on the Start menu, and users will have to manually search for their files and folders.
Disabling the “Don’t show recent files” feature in Windows 11
To disable the “Don’t show recent files” feature in Windows 11, follow these simple steps:
1. Click on the Start button, and then select “Settings” from the menu.
2. In the Settings window, click on “Personalization.”
3. Under the Personalization section, click on “Start.”
4. On the Start page, scroll down and find the “Show recently used files and folders on Start” option.
5. Toggle the switch to the Off position to disable the feature.
Alternative methods to hide recent files in Windows 11
If you prefer not to use the above method, there are alternative ways to hide recent files in Windows 11:
1. Use a third-party file manager: Some third-party file managers offer features to hide recent files and folders. You can install one of these applications and configure it to hide the recent files list.
2. Customize the Start menu layout: You can customize the Start menu layout by removing the “Recent files” section. To do this, right-click on the Start button, select “Properties,” go to the “Start Layout” tab, and uncheck the “Show recently opened items in Jump Lists on the Start menu” option.
Conclusion
Disabling the “Don’t show recent files” feature in Windows 11 can be beneficial for users who value their privacy or simply prefer not to have their recent files displayed on the Start menu. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily hide your recent files and maintain a cleaner and more private computing experience.
