How to Customize Quick Access in File Explorer on Windows 11
Quick Access in Windows 11 lets you pin frequently used files, folders, and recent items directly within File Explorer for faster access.
This feature acts as a personalized shortcut menu, significantly reducing the time you spend searching for your essential documents and projects on your PC.
By customizing Quick Access, you ensure your most important work is always just one click away, streamlining your workflow and decluttering your digital workspace. For example, you can pin specific project folders that you access daily.
This tutorial shows you how to control exactly what appears in your Windows 11 File Explorer’s Quick Access section, making your PC management more efficient.
How to pin or remove items
If you use a folder often, you can pin it so it stays at the top of your list. Right-click any folder and select Pin to Quick Access. If you decide you don’t need it there anymore, right-click the folder again and select Unpin from Quick Access.
How to change Quick Access settings
Windows 11 automatically adds your recent files to this list. If you find this cluttered, you can change how it works. Note: You do not need special permissions for these settings, but you must be logged into your user account.
- Open File Explorer.
- Click the three dots (…) in the top menu.
- Select Options.
In the General tab, you can change where File Explorer opens. If you want it to show your computer drives instead of Quick Access, change the Open File Explorer to setting to This PC.
To stop Windows from showing your recent files, look at the Privacy section at the bottom of the window:
- Uncheck the boxes for Show recently used files and Show frequently used folders.
- Click Apply to save your changes.
How to show only your pinned folders
You can keep the Quick Access menu active but hide the “recent” files list. This keeps your menu clean.
- Open File Explorer.
- Click the three dots (…) and choose Options.
- Ensure Open File Explorer to is set to Quick Access.
- In the Privacy section, uncheck the boxes for recent and frequent items.
- Click Apply.
Now, your Quick Access menu will only show the folders you have manually pinned.
Summary
Quick Access is a powerful tool to save time. By pinning your favorite folders, you stop wasting time searching. By adjusting your privacy settings, you can remove clutter and keep your workspace organized and focused on what matters most.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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So there is no way to remove Quick Access in Windows 11??
And there seems to be no way to remove the Recommended section in the Start menu?!
This is ridiculous
You can remove Quick Acces via Registry editor. The W10 guide works fine.
The content of the Recommended section can be removed via Settings -> Personalisation -> Show recently… OFF Unfortunatelly the text “Recommended….” in Start menu can’t be removed.
I followed the instructions and nothing happened.
“You can remove Quick Access via Registry editor. The W10 guide works fine.” is your response to Luka – so where do I find W10 Guide? because I don’t want the stupid Quick Access.
Well, you can change the default folder to “This computer”, which is fine for me. (I never got the idea of quick access folder. All app I need to quickly access are pined to taskbar).
Cheers
Michala
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