Removing recent files in Windows 10 is a straightforward task. You just need to clear out the list of recently accessed files from your system, which can be done via the File Explorer settings. This ensures that your recent files are no longer visible to anyone using your computer.
How to Remove Recent Files in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll go through the steps to remove recent files in Windows 10. By following these steps, you’ll have a clean slate in your File Explorer’s recent files list.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
To start, you need to open File Explorer.
You can do this by clicking the folder icon on your taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to the File Explorer Options
Next, you need to access the File Explorer Options.
Click on the "View" tab at the top of the File Explorer window, then click on "Options" on the far right side, and select "Change folder and search options."
Step 3: Clear the Recent Files History
Now, it’s time to clear the recent files history.
In the File Explorer Options window, click on the "General" tab. Under the "Privacy" section, click on the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history."
Step 4: Disable Showing Recent Files
If you prefer not to see recent files at all, you can disable this feature.
In the same "Privacy" section, uncheck the boxes for "Show recently used files in Quick access" and "Show frequently used folders in Quick access."
Step 5: Apply Your Changes
Finally, apply your changes to finalize the process.
Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save your settings and close the File Explorer Options window.
After you complete these actions, your recent files history will be cleared, and depending on your settings, recent files may no longer appear in Quick access.
Tips for Removing Recent Files in Windows 10
- Consider disabling recent files if privacy is a priority.
- Regularly clear your recent files to keep your computer running smoothly.
- Use keyboard shortcuts like Windows key + E to quickly access File Explorer.
- Be cautious about clearing recent files if you need to frequently access them.
- Customize Quick access settings to better suit your workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clear my recent files?
It depends on your usage. If you frequently work with sensitive documents, you might want to clear them weekly.
Can I selectively remove specific recent files?
No, this process clears all recent files. You can’t choose specific files to remove.
Will this affect my file search history?
Yes, clearing recent files will also clear your search history in File Explorer.
Do I need administrative rights to clear recent files?
No, you don’t need administrative rights to clear recent files.
Can I recover cleared recent files?
Clearing recent files doesn’t delete the actual files, so you can still access them through their original locations.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to the File Explorer Options.
- Clear the Recent Files History.
- Disable showing recent files (optional).
- Apply your changes.
Conclusion
Removing recent files in Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to maintain your privacy and keep your computer organized. Whether you’re sharing your PC with family members or just want to ensure that your recent activities remain private, these steps make it easy to clear out your recent files list.
Taking a few moments to tweak your settings can make a big difference. For those keen on maintaining privacy, disabling the recent files feature altogether might be the way to go. Keep in mind, though, that removing recent files does not delete the actual files — it simply clears the list of recently accessed documents.
By following this guide, you’ve taken a solid step towards better file management. Feel free to revisit these steps anytime you need to clear your recent files. And remember, a little housekeeping goes a long way in keeping your digital life running smoothly. Happy file managing!
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.