The Quick Access Clutter
Windows 11 includes a feature in File Explorer called “Quick Access,” now sometimes referred to as the “Home” view. By default, this view doesn’t just show the folders you have explicitly pinned; it actively monitors your activity and populates a “Recent” section with every single file you have opened recently. Furthermore, a “Recommended” section attempts to predict which files you might want to open next based on your usage patterns. While this can speed up workflows for some, it is a significant privacy concern if you share a computer or frequently present your screen in meetings, as sensitive or personal files are instantly displayed the moment you open File Explorer.
Disabling File Suggestions and History
To maintain your privacy and stop Windows 11 from automatically suggesting files and displaying your recent file history in the File Explorer, you must configure the Folder Options.
Open File Explorer (press Windows key + E). In the command bar at the top of the window, click the three horizontal dots (…) to open the “See more” menu, then select Options. A small dialogue box titled “Folder Options” will appear, defaulting to the General tab. Look at the bottom section labeled Privacy. You will see checkboxes for “Show recently used files in Quick access” and “Show frequently used folders in Quick access” (or similar wording regarding file recommendations). Uncheck these boxes. To instantly clear the current list of suggested files, click the Clear button located right next to these options. Finally, click Apply and then OK. Your File Explorer Home screen will now only display the folders you have intentionally pinned.