Efficiently Clearing Your Recent Files List in Windows 11- A Step-by-Step Guide

by liuqiyue

How to Remove Files from Recent in Windows 11

Are you tired of seeing your recently accessed files in Windows 11? Do you want to keep your privacy intact or simply declutter your file explorer? Removing files from the recent section in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to remove files from recent in Windows 11, ensuring a cleaner and more personalized experience.

Understanding the Recent Section

The recent section in Windows 11 is a convenient feature that allows users to quickly access files they have recently opened. However, it can also become cluttered and invasive of privacy. Understanding how the recent section works is the first step in removing files from it.

The recent section is a list of files that have been accessed on your computer within the last few days. It is stored locally and can be viewed by opening the File Explorer and navigating to the “Quick Access” section on the left-hand side. By default, the recent section displays the 25 most recently accessed files.

Removing Files from Recent in Windows 11

Now that you understand what the recent section is, let’s dive into the steps to remove files from it. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open File Explorer: Press the Windows key + E to open the File Explorer.
2. Navigate to Quick Access: In the left-hand pane, click on “Quick Access” to expand it.
3. Right-click on a file: Find the file you want to remove from the recent section and right-click on it.
4. Select “Unpin from Quick Access”: A context menu will appear; click on “Unpin from Quick Access” to remove the file from the recent section.
5. Repeat for other files: If you want to remove more files, repeat steps 3 and 4 for each file you wish to unpin.

Disabling the Recent Section

If you prefer not to have the recent section at all, you can disable it entirely. Here’s how:

1. Open File Explorer: Press the Windows key + E to open the File Explorer.
2. Click on the “Options” button: In the upper-right corner, click on the gear icon to open the File Explorer Options.
3. Select the “General” tab: In the left-hand pane, click on “General” to view the general settings.
4. Uncheck “Show recently used files in Quick Access”: Under the “Privacy” section, uncheck the box that says “Show recently used files in Quick Access.”
5. Click “OK” to save changes: Click “OK” to save your changes and disable the recent section.

Conclusion

Removing files from the recent section in Windows 11 is a simple process that can help you maintain your privacy and declutter your file explorer. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily unpin files from the recent section or even disable the feature altogether. Enjoy a cleaner, more personalized experience on your Windows 11 device!

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