Here's a concise and simple guide on how to disable or hide the Recent Files list in Windows. It is tailored to ensure your privacy by preventing the storage of recently opened programs and files. In addition I cover how to clear recent files history.
How to Disable Recent Files List in Windows
In this simple solution, I cover the process of disabling or hiding the Recent Files list in Windows. There are cases where you might not want to store recently opened programs and would rather disable them entirely. The Recent Files list is basically a doorway to your most recent activity, and maybe you don't want your recent activity exposed.
To disable the Recent Files list in Windows, follow these steps for your specific version of Windows:
For Windows 7 and Windows 8
- From your Taskbar, Right Click the Start and select Properties
- (1) Under Privacy, uncheck Store and display a list of recently opened files
(2) Click OK
For Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the Settings gear icon, or press Win + I.
- Navigate to Personalization: In the Settings window, click on Personalization.
- Start Settings: In the left sidebar, select Start.
- Disable Recent Items: Look for the option Show recently opened items in Jump Lists on Start or the taskbar and toggle it off.
Additional Steps to Clear Recent Files History
To Clear File Explorer History:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the View tab in the ribbon.
- Click on Options, and then select Change folder and search options.
- In the Folder Options window, go to the General tab.
- Under Privacy, click on Clear to clear the File Explorer history.
- Optionally, you can uncheck Show recently used files in Quick access and Show frequently used folders in Quick access.
These steps will clear history as well as disable and prevent the future creation of a list of recently opened programs in Windows.
