How to Disable Recent Files in Windows 10
In today’s digital age, privacy and security are paramount, especially when it comes to our personal files and data. One feature that can potentially compromise your privacy is the “Recent Files” list in Windows 10. This feature displays a list of recently accessed documents, photos, music, and other files, which can be a concern if someone else has access to your computer. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to disable recent files in Windows 10 and help you maintain your privacy and security.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
The first step to disable recent files in Windows 10 is to open the Settings app. You can do this by clicking on the Start button, then selecting the gear icon located in the left-hand menu.
Step 2: Navigate to Privacy
Once you are in the Settings app, click on “Privacy” in the left-hand menu. This will display a list of privacy-related settings.
Step 3: Go to the General tab
In the Privacy settings, click on “General” in the left-hand menu. This tab contains various options related to your privacy, including the ability to control how Windows 10 handles recent files.
Step 4: Turn off “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows”
Under the “General” tab, you will find the option “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.” This option is turned on by default, which allows Windows 10 to track your recent files and display suggestions based on your usage patterns. To disable this feature, simply toggle the switch to the off position.
Step 5: Turn off “Show me recently opened files in Start, File Explorer, and the taskbar”
Below the “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows” option, you will find another option labeled “Show me recently opened files in Start, File Explorer, and the taskbar.” This option is also turned on by default, which causes Windows 10 to display a list of your recent files in these locations. To disable this feature, toggle the switch to the off position.
Step 6: Confirm your changes
After turning off both options, you will need to confirm your changes. Click on the “OK” button to save your settings.
Conclusion
Disabling recent files in Windows 10 is a simple process that can help you maintain your privacy and security. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your recent files are not displayed in Start, File Explorer, or the taskbar, thereby preventing unauthorized access to your personal data. Remember that these changes will only affect your Windows 10 installation and will not impact other users on the same computer.
