Manage File History in Ubuntu Linux
File History in Ubuntu Linux shows a list of your recent documents and apps right inside the file manager sidebar so you can reopen them fast. Ubuntu keeps track of everything you open by default on GNOME desktop versions 40 and higher.
Turning off this feature hides your recent files and keeps your activity private from anyone else who uses your PC. You can turn off file tracking in a few simple clicks using the main Settings app .
Manage File History in Ubuntu by opening Settings, navigating to Privacy, and then selecting File History & Trash. Toggle the File History switch to enable or disable the feature and set its duration.
How to enable or disable file history in Ubuntu Linux
Managing Ubuntu’s file history involves turning the feature on or off inside system settings. This control determines whether Ubuntu remembers the files and folders used recently. Stopping the display of recent files requires following specific steps to disable or enable the file history setting.
Disabling or enabling these references takes only a few moments if recent files should remain hidden.
Most Ubuntu Linux system configurations reside in the System Settings panel. This central location permits management of system-wide setups like user creation and updates.
Alternatively, click the System menu in the top-right corner of your desktop’s top bar.
Then, select Settings from the menu, as shown below.
Click the Privacy tile to open its panel in the Settings app.
In the System Settings -> Privacy panel, select File History & Trash to open that section.
In the System Settings -> Privacy -> File History & Trash settings pane, toggle the File History switch to the Off position to disable it.
Re-enabling this functionality requires toggling the File History switch back to On.
Under File History Duration, duration options include 1 day, 7 days, 30 days, or Forever.
Clicking the Clear History… button immediately removes recorded history.
System configuration panels do not alter browser data storage for visited websites. This configuration affects File History backups in Ubuntu Linux exclusively.
Closing the Settings app finalises the process.
Conclusion:
- Disabling or enabling the file history in Ubuntu Linux can help you manage your privacy and access to recent files and folders effectively.
- Following the simple steps outlined in this post, you can easily customize the file history settings to suit your preferences.
- Remember that this setting does not affect how your web browser stores information about the websites you visit, so consider additional privacy measures if needed.
- Understanding and controlling these settings empowers you to balance convenience and privacy while using Ubuntu Linux.
Toggling file history strikes a balance between convenience and privacy. Adjusting these preferences takes only a few clicks.
What is the Ubuntu file manager?
Nautilus, the default graphical file manager in Ubuntu, provides a straightforward interface for browsing directories. However, users who need advanced features, greater flexibility, and more customization options may need to explore alternative file managers.
How to see history of files in Linux?
Terminal users can inspect command history by running the ls -a command to view hidden files. Operating system environment variables like HISTFILE, HISTFILESIZE, and HISTSIZE dictate how terminal sessions log past commands.
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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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