How to Turn Off Recent Files in Windows 11
In Windows 11, the recent files feature provides users with a convenient way to access their most recently opened documents, photos, and other files. However, some users may find this feature intrusive or unnecessary, especially if they prefer to keep their file system private or organized. If you’re one of those users, you can easily turn off the recent files feature in Windows 11. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
To begin, click on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen, and then select the gear icon to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Privacy & Security
In the Settings app, click on “Privacy & Security” from the left-hand menu. This section contains various privacy settings for your device.
Step 3: Go to General Privacy Settings
Within the Privacy & Security section, scroll down and click on “General” to access the general privacy settings.
Step 4: Turn Off the Show Recently Used Files Option
In the General privacy settings, you’ll find an option called “Show recently used files in File Explorer.” This is the setting that controls the recent files feature. To turn it off, simply toggle the switch to the off position.
Step 5: Confirm Your Changes
After turning off the Show recently used files option, you may be prompted to confirm your changes. Click “Yes” to proceed.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer (Optional)
While it’s not necessary to restart your computer for the changes to take effect, doing so can help ensure that the recent files feature is completely disabled.
Conclusion
Turning off the recent files feature in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can help you maintain a more private and organized file system. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily disable this feature and enjoy a more customized experience on your Windows 11 device.
