Removing Quick Access in Windows 10 is a straightforward task that can help streamline your File Explorer experience. Quick Access is a feature that displays your frequently used folders and recently accessed files, but not everyone finds it helpful. Whether you’re concerned about privacy or just want a cleaner navigation pane, you can easily disable this feature. Following a few simple steps, you can replace Quick Access with the “This PC” view and clear out any recent files and folders from appearing.
How to Remove Quick Access in Windows 10
The following steps will guide you to effectively remove or disable Quick Access from Windows 10. By following these steps, you’ll be able to open File Explorer directly to “This PC” instead of Quick Access and keep your recent activity private.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
The first thing you need to do is open File Explorer.
You can do this by clicking on the folder icon located on your taskbar, or you can press the Windows key and the E key at the same time. This will open up the File Explorer window where you can access your files and folders.
Step 2: Access Folder Options
Once you have File Explorer open, go to the “View” tab at the top and select “Options.”
This will open the Folder Options window. Here, you can customize how your folders are displayed, including modifying the default view when opening File Explorer.
Step 3: Change the Open File Explorer to “This PC”
Within the Folder Options window, find the section that says, “Open File Explorer to.” Click the dropdown menu and select “This PC” instead of “Quick access.”
By doing this, you’re telling Windows 10 to bypass Quick Access and show the “This PC” view whenever File Explorer is opened. It’s like setting your homepage to your preferred website.
Step 4: Clear File Explorer History
In the same Folder Options window, click “Clear” under the Privacy section to remove any existing Quick Access history.
Clearing your history ensures that any previously accessed files or folders won’t show up in Quick Access, giving you a fresh start.
Step 5: Apply Changes
Finally, click “Apply” and then “OK” to save your changes.
After applying these changes, your File Explorer will now default to “This PC” and Quick Access will no longer display recent files and folders.
After completing these steps, Quick Access will be disabled, and File Explorer will open directly to “This PC.” Your recently viewed files and folders will also be cleared, making for a more private and streamlined experience.
Tips for Removing Quick Access in Windows 10
- Ensure you are logged in as an administrator to make these changes.
- Consider backing up your system before making significant changes.
- Customize “This PC” view to show or hide specific folders.
- Regularly clear history if privacy is a concern.
- Use Group Policy Editor for more advanced settings if you’re comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick Access in Windows 10?
Quick Access is a feature in File Explorer that shows your frequently used folders and recently opened files for easy access.
Can I customize Quick Access instead of removing it?
Yes, you can pin or unpin specific folders to customize what appears in Quick Access without removing it entirely.
Will removing Quick Access delete my files?
No, removing Quick Access only changes how File Explorer displays files. It doesn’t delete any actual files or folders.
How can I re-enable Quick Access if I change my mind?
Simply go back to Folder Options and select “Quick access” in the “Open File Explorer to” dropdown menu.
Is there a way to remove Quick Access through the registry?
Yes, but it’s more complex. If you’re comfortable editing the registry, you can disable Quick Access there, but always backup your registry first.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Access Folder Options.
- Change to “This PC.”
- Clear history.
- Apply changes.
Conclusion
Removing Quick Access in Windows 10 is a simple process that can make your File Explorer feel more organized and tailored to your preferences. Maybe you’re looking to boost your privacy by clearing recent files, or perhaps you just want a cleaner look without the clutter of frequently used folders. Whatever your reason, switching to “This PC” allows for a more personalized and efficient navigation experience.
Remember, changes like these are reversible, so feel free to experiment with your settings to find what works best for you. Don’t hesitate to dive into other customization options Windows 10 offers—each tweak can enhance your overall computing experience. If you found this guide helpful, you might want to explore additional tips and tricks for optimizing Windows 10. The operating system is packed with features waiting to be tailored to your liking. Happy organizing!
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.