Turning off Quick Access in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can help you reclaim control over your File Explorer experience. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can manage your files your way. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll be able to follow along with ease.
How to Turn Off Quick Access in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll go step-by-step through the process to disable Quick Access in Windows 11. By the end, you’ll have File Explorer opening straight to "This PC" rather than Quick Access.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
First, open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on your taskbar or pressing Windows + E.
File Explorer is where you’ll manage your files and folders. Opening it is the first step to accessing the settings you need to change.
Step 2: Access Folder Options
Next, click on the three-dot menu in the File Explorer toolbar and select "Options."
The Folder Options menu is where you can tweak various settings for how your files and folders behave. This is where you’ll find the setting to change Quick Access.
Step 3: Change Open File Explorer To "This PC"
In the General tab, find the "Open File Explorer to" dropdown menu and select "This PC."
This setting determines what you see when you open File Explorer. Switching it to "This PC" will bypass Quick Access.
Step 4: Clear File Explorer History
Under the Privacy section of the General tab, click the "Clear" button to clear File Explorer history.
Clearing history ensures that File Explorer doesn’t remember your previous Quick Access links, giving you a fresh start.
Step 5: Turn Off Show Recently Used Files/Folders
Also under the Privacy section, uncheck both "Show recently used files in Quick Access" and "Show frequently used folders in Quick Access."
These settings control what Quick Access displays. Unchecking them removes those frequent and recent items from view.
After completing these steps, your File Explorer will now open to "This PC" rather than Quick Access. You’ll also notice a cleaner, less cluttered interface.
Tips for Turning Off Quick Access in Windows 11
- Know Your Destination: Decide if you prefer File Explorer to open to a specific location other than Quick Access.
- Backup Favorites: If you frequently use Quick Access, consider bookmarking important folders elsewhere.
- Privacy Matters: Clearing history regularly can help maintain your privacy.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn handy shortcuts like
Windows + Eto speed up your workflow. - Explore Alternatives: If you miss Quick Access, remember you can re-enable it using the same steps.
Frequently Asked Questions about Turning Off Quick Access in Windows 11
Why would I want to disable Quick Access?
Disabling Quick Access can provide a cleaner and more organized File Explorer experience, especially if you don’t use the feature much.
Will I lose access to my files if I turn off Quick Access?
No, you won’t lose any files. They’ll still be available in their original locations.
Can I still pin folders to Quick Access?
Yes, you can manually pin folders to Quick Access even after disabling the automatic features.
How do I re-enable Quick Access if I change my mind?
Simply follow the same steps and choose “Quick Access” instead of “This PC” in the Folder Options menu.
Does this affect other Windows 11 users on the same device?
No, these settings are user-specific and won’t impact other accounts on your device.
Summary
- Open File Explorer
- Access Folder Options
- Change Open File Explorer To "This PC"
- Clear File Explorer History
- Turn Off Show Recently Used Files/Folders
Conclusion
Turning off Quick Access in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to customize your File Explorer experience. By making these changes, you can start with a cleaner slate, focusing on the files and folders that matter most to you. Whether you’re aiming for a more streamlined interface or just prefer "This PC" as your starting point, these steps can be easily followed by users of all levels. Don’t hesitate to revisit these steps if you ever want to re-enable Quick Access, making this a flexible solution tailored to your needs. For further reading, explore other ways to personalize your Windows 11 experience, ensuring your setup works perfectly for you.
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.