Hide Recent Files on the Start Menu in Windows 11

This article explains how to hide recently accessed items, including files and folders, in the Start menu on Windows 11.

By default, Windows keeps track of certain recent activities. This includes files and folders you’ve opened, apps you’ve recently used, and other items displayed in the “Recommended” section on the Start menu.

Why Hide Recent Files?

Hiding recent files and folders in Windows 11 is helpful for two main reasons:

• Privacy: You can prevent Windows from tracking and showing your recent activities in the Recommended section of the Start menu.
• Shared computers: If you share your computer with others, you can keep your recent activities hidden from other users of the same device.

When you disable this feature, recent files and folders will stop appearing in the Recommended section of the Start menu. This gives you more control over your privacy and what other people can see on your device.

How to Disable Recently Opened Items

Follow these simple steps to hide your recent files:

1. Open the Windows Settings app. You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and selecting Settings. Or press the keyboard shortcut Windows key + I to launch the Settings app.
2. When the Settings app opens, click Personalization on the left side.
3. Then, select Start on the right to expand it.

4. On the Personalization > Start settings page, find the option that says “Show recommended files in Start, recent files in File Explorer, and items in Jump Lists.”
5. Toggle the switch next to this option to Off.

What happens when you do this? Windows 11 will stop saving recent items in the Recommended section of your Start menu.

Important Note About Web Browsing

Turning off this Windows feature will not affect your web browsing history and other web activities. If you want to hide your browsing history, you must turn off tracking in your web browser separately. Check your browser’s settings page for privacy options.

Summary

• Disabling the tracking of recently used items in Windows 11 enhances your privacy.
• Users who share devices can prevent others from viewing their activities.
• The settings are easy to find. Just go to Start menu > Settings > Personalization > Start.
• Turning off this feature does not impact your web browsing history. You need to adjust browser settings separately for web privacy.
• Taking control of your recent activity helps you manage your personal data and feel more comfortable when using shared computers.