If you’ve ever needed to quickly access a file you were working on but couldn’t find it in the limited "Recent files" list, you’re not alone. By tweaking a few settings in Windows 10, you can easily view more than 20 recent files. Let’s dive into how you can make this change for better productivity.
How to View More Than 20 Recent Files in Windows 10
By adjusting a few settings, you can expand the number of recent files displayed on your Windows 10 system. Follow these steps to customize your Windows experience and make it easier to access your most recent work.
Step 1: Open File Explorer Options
Navigate to any folder to open File Explorer and click on the "View" tab, then select "Options."
File Explorer Options is where you can tailor how files and folders behave on your computer. It’s like setting the rules of a game before you start playing.
Step 2: Adjust Privacy Settings
In the File Explorer Options window, switch to the "General" tab, and locate the "Privacy" section at the bottom.
This section allows you to customize how Windows tracks and shows your recent items. You’ll need to tweak these settings to expand the list.
Step 3: Enable "Show Recently Used Files"
Check the box for "Show recently used files in Quick access."
This setting allows Windows to keep track of your recent files and display them in the Quick Access area for faster retrieval.
Step 4: Clear and Restart
Click the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history" then click "OK" to apply the settings.
Clearing the history can help reset the list and apply your new settings effectively. It’s like hitting a refresh button.
Step 5: Use Registry Editor (Optional)
For those comfortable with advanced settings, open the Registry Editor by typing "regedit" in the search bar and navigating to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced. Right-click, select "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value," name it "JumpListItems_Maximum," and set the value to your desired number of recent files.
Editing the Registry can fine-tune how your system behaves, but be cautious: making incorrect changes here can cause system issues.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer will display more than the default 20 recent files in Quick Access, allowing you to find what you need more quickly and easily.
Tips for Viewing More Than 20 Recent Files in Windows 10
- Use File Explorer frequently to keep your recent file list updated.
- Regularly clear your file history to remove clutter and improve performance.
- Customize the Quick Access toolbar to pin your most-used folders.
- Use third-party software if you need more advanced file tracking features.
- Be careful when editing the Registry to avoid accidental system changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo these changes if I don’t like them?
Yes, you can always go back to File Explorer Options and uncheck the "Show recently used files" box to revert to default settings.
Will this affect my system performance?
Minimal. Increasing the number of recent files shown might use slightly more system resources, but the impact is usually negligible.
What is the Registry Editor?
The Registry Editor is a tool that allows users to view and make changes to system registries, which are databases that store low-level settings.
Can I set the number of recent files to any number I want?
Yes, through the Registry Editor, you can specify any reasonable number, but extremely high numbers may impact performance.
Is there a risk in using the Registry Editor?
Yes, incorrect changes to the registry can cause system instability. Always back up your registry before making changes.
Summary
- Open File Explorer Options.
- Adjust Privacy Settings.
- Enable "Show Recently Used Files".
- Clear and Restart.
- Use Registry Editor (Optional).
Conclusion
By following the above steps, you can easily view more than 20 recent files in Windows 10, enhancing your workflow efficiency. Remember that while the default settings are designed for general use, customizing them to suit your needs can offer a more streamlined and productive experience. If you’re hesitant about using the Registry Editor, make sure to back up your system or consult with someone who has experience. For further reading, you might want to look into other ways to optimize Windows 10 for better performance and usability.
The world of Windows 10 is full of hidden features and customization options. By taking the time to adjust these settings, you’re not just making your life easier—you’re unlocking the full potential of your operating system. So go ahead, make these changes, and watch as your productivity soars!
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.