Disabling Quick Access in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. By accessing the File Explorer options, you can customize your settings to prevent Quick Access from displaying recently used files and folders. This guide will walk you through each step, helping you personalize your Windows 10 experience.
How to Disable Quick Access in Windows 10
In the steps below, you’ll learn how to disable Quick Access in Windows 10 by modifying your File Explorer settings. This will stop Windows from showing recently used files and frequently used folders.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
First, open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon in the taskbar or pressing the Windows + E keys on your keyboard.
File Explorer is your gateway to all the files and folders on your computer. It’s the first step in making any changes to your Quick Access settings.
Step 2: Access File Explorer Options
Next, click on the "View" tab at the top of the File Explorer window, then click on "Options" or "Change folder and search options."
The "View" tab gives you access to various settings and options. The "Options" button is what you’ll use to access the settings we need to change.
Step 3: Modify Privacy Settings
In the Folder Options window, navigate to the "General" tab. Under the Privacy section, uncheck the boxes for "Show recently used files in Quick Access" and "Show frequently used folders in Quick Access."
These checkboxes control what appears in Quick Access. By unchecking them, you’re telling Windows not to display your recent or frequently used items.
Step 4: Clear File Explorer History
Next, click the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history" to remove any existing items from Quick Access.
Clearing the history ensures that any items previously displayed in Quick Access are removed, giving you a clean slate.
Step 5: Apply Your Changes
Finally, click "OK" to apply your changes and close the Folder Options window.
Clicking "OK" saves your new settings, ensuring that Quick Access no longer displays recently used files and frequently used folders.
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 Quick Access will no longer display recently used files or frequently used folders, providing a more private and personalized browsing experience.
Tips for Disabling Quick Access in Windows 10
- Backup Settings: Before making changes, consider backing up your current settings in case you want to revert them later.
- Frequent Updates: Regularly check for Windows updates, as system updates can sometimes reset your preferences.
- Use Libraries: Utilize Windows Libraries to organize your files instead of relying on Quick Access.
- Customize Quick Access: If you prefer, you can manually pin specific folders to Quick Access for easy access.
- Explore Alternatives: Research third-party file managers if you want more control over how your files are displayed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I re-enable Quick Access if I change my mind?
Yes, you can re-enable Quick Access anytime by revisiting the Folder Options and checking the boxes you previously unchecked.
Will disabling Quick Access delete my files?
No, disabling Quick Access will not delete any files. It only changes the display settings in File Explorer.
Can I disable Quick Access on a shared computer?
Yes, you can disable Quick Access on any Windows 10 computer if you have administrative access to the settings.
Why is Quick Access showing folders I haven’t used recently?
Quick Access sometimes displays folders based on system algorithms and not just recent activity. Disabling Quick Access can stop this.
Does Quick Access affect system performance?
Quick Access itself has a minimal impact on system performance. However, clearing your File Explorer history can improve navigation speed slightly.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Access File Explorer Options.
- Modify Privacy Settings.
- Clear File Explorer History.
- Apply Your Changes.
Conclusion
Disabling Quick Access in Windows 10 can give you greater control over your personal files and improve your browsing experience. It’s a simple process that involves just a few clicks and can be easily reversed if needed. Whether you’re looking to increase your privacy or just prefer a cleaner File Explorer, these steps will help you achieve that.
Taking a few minutes to customize your Windows 10 settings can make a big difference in how efficiently you navigate your computer. For more tips on personalizing your Windows experience or troubleshooting common issues, be sure to check out other articles and guides. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.