Don’t like recently opened files cluttering your Windows 11 Start menu? This tutorial shows you how to remove recommended or recent files in the Windows 11 Start menu.
The Windows 11 Start menu is a major visual change from Windows 10. It has three main sections: a customizable pinned app list, the Recommended (or Recent Files) section, and quick access to user settings, system folders, and power options.
By default, the Recommended section displays recently opened files, programs, and files Windows anticipates you might need. While this is useful in some cases, it not only clutters the Start menu but can be a privacy concern too. Fortunately, you can easily hide or remove the recent files in the Start menu. This tutorial will guide you through the steps.
Steps to Hide or Remove Recent Files in Windows 11 Start Menu
Follow the below steps to remove the recent files under the “Recommended” section in the Start menu.
- Right-click the Start menu button on the taskbar.
- Select “Settings“.
- Go to the “Personalization” > “Start” page.
- Turn OFF the “Show recommended files in Start, recent files in File Explorer, and items in Jump Lists” toggle.
- Close the Settings app.
- From now on, you will not see recent files in the Start menu.
Detailed Steps (With Screenshots)
The option to hide recent or recommended files is in the Settings app. So, open it by right-clicking the Start menu button on the taskbar and selecting the “Settings” option.
Once the Settings window opens, select the “Personalization” tab on the sidebar and click the “Start” option on the right page. This is where you find the options to manage the Start menu look and functionality.
Turn OFF the “Show recommended files in Start, recent files in File Explorer, and items in Jump Lists” toggle on this page.
Turning off this option removes recent files from the Windows 11 Start menu, Jump Lists, and File Explorer. You can see the changes right away. If not, restart your computer.
Good to know: How to clear and disable recent files in File Explorer
Take Control of the Start Menu’s Recommended and Recent Files List
In conclusion, if you don’t want to see recommended and recent files in your Start menu, you just need to disable the “Show recommended files in Start, recent files in File Explorer, and items in Jump Lists” option. Remember that, even after disabling this option, the “Recommended” section will still appear in the Start menu. While you cannot remove it, you can shrink the recommended section allowing you to pin more apps to the Start menu. Alternatively, you can also make the Start menu show All Apps by default, using a third-party app called Explorer Patcher.
If you have any questions or need help, comment below. I’ll be happy to assist.
Update: The tutorial is updated to reflect the changes in Windows 11.
