In the dynamic realm of Windows operating systems, each iteration brings forth new features and enhancements designed to streamline user experience. Windows 11, the latest installment in the series, continues this tradition with its visually stunning interface and intuitive functionalities. One such feature is Quick Access, a convenient hub that provides users swift access to their recently used files and frequently visited folders. While Quick Access can be a time-saving tool, there are instances where privacy and organization take precedence. Remove Recent Files

In this article, we’ll delve into the steps on how to remove recent files from Quick Access in Windows 11, offering users greater control over their digital workspace.
Remove Recent Files From Quick Access in Windows 11
Firstly, to find the recent files in your Windows 11 system, you’ll need to follow the steps below:
- First, open the File Explorer from the taskbar.
- You can check the recent files under the Recent section in Quick Access.
- Now, if your recent files do not show in the Recent section, then left-click on the Start button, type File Explorer options and select it.
- Head to the General tab and check the box of the Show recently used files option.
- Click on Apply.
- If you can find your recent files, open some files and repeat the first two steps.
To clear the recent files in Windows 11, you just need to follow the following methods provided below:
Clear File Explorer history
- First, left-click on the Start button, search for File Explorer options, and select it.
- Click on the General tab and head to the Privacy menu.
- Click on the Clear button.
- Now, close the File Explorer Options window and check if the recent files are removed.
Delete the search history
- First, left-click on the Start button and click on the settings cog icon to open the Settings.
- Click on the Privacy & Security tab on the left panel and Click on Search Permissions.
- Now, click on the Clear Device search history button under the History tab.
Delete the activity history for your account
- First, launch the Windows Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
- Select the Privacy & Security tab and click on the Activity history.
- To delete the activity history from all the devices, click on the Clear History button.
- You can also toggle off the button for the Activity History option to prevent the further storage of activity history for your account.
Using Registry Editor
- Launch the Run dialog box by pressing Win + R, type Regedit, and press OK to launch it.
- After that follow the path below:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\TypedPaths
- Here, you’ll need to right-click on the url1, url2, url3 files and then select the Delete option from the menu.
Delete the File Explorer’s Address bar History
- Open the File Explorer from the taskbar.
- Now, right-click on the Explorer address bar and select the Delete History option.
- Click on OK to confirm it.
Delete the recent file history for a specific app
- In the search bar, type in the app’s name.
- Now, on the right side, head to the Recent tab to see the list of recently opened items.
- Right-click on the file and select Remove from the list.
These are all the methods and steps through which you can remove the Recent Files from the Quick Access in Windows 11.
Also read: Remove Shortcut Arrows in Windows 10 and 11
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the ability to tailor your computing environment to suit your preferences remains paramount. Windows 11, with its sleek design and user-centric features, empowers users to customize their experience. By mastering the art of managing Quick Access, users can strike a balance between efficiency and privacy. As we navigate the digital landscape, having the tools to curate our workspace ensures a seamless and personalized computing experience on Windows 11.