How to remove recent files/folders from the Quick Access Menu in Windows 10/11

Windows' File Explorer is unmatched. Among its useful features is a bookmarking system called the Quick Access menu. In this section, all your recently opened files and folders are displayed in order of last accessed. Users may want to remove the names of such recent files and folders from the Quick Access menu due to privacy concerns. 

Why Delete Items from Quick Access Menu in Windows

The Windows operating system's File Manager is one of the best in the industry. Navigating it is simple and quick. Keyboard shortcuts are available inside, as well as a handy sidebar that makes it easy to switch between drives and folders.The Quick Access menu is also in the sidebar menu. Consider it a bookmarking feature, and the symbol has been appropriately chosen as a star.

 Privacy – you don’t want your private or sensitive files and folders making it to the Quick Access menu in case someone is wathcing over your should.

Clutter – too many folders in the Quick Access menu makes it cluttered and difficult to navigate.

How to Delete File Explorer Browsing History

You can also access frequently used files and folders through the Start menu in addition to the Quick Access menu. It is good to know that you can quickly clean up your browsing history in File Explorer.

1. Press Windows+E to open File Explorer. A Quick Access folder will be opened by default. Click Options.

2. Click on the Clear button under the General tab.

3. Click on Apply to save changes.

How to Pin/Unpin Folders from Quick Access Menu

You can also remove individual files and folders from the Quick Access menu. Please see below for instructions:

1. Open the File Explorer by pressing Windows+E. By default, it opens in the Quick Access folder. To remove a file or folder from Quick Access, right-click on it and select Unpin from Quick Access.

You can pin a folder back by right-clicking it and selecting Pin to Quick Access.

The folders can be dragged and dropped in any order you like.

File Explorer Opened in "This PC" Folder

By default, the File Explorer opens in Quick Access when you use the Windows+E keyboard shortcut. Instead of opening it in My Computer, you can make it open in This PC.

Select this PC from the Open File Explorer to drop-down menu in the Folder Options settings by choosing File Explorer > three-dot menu > Options.

End of chapter: Manage Quick Access Menu in Windows.

In Windows File Manager, you can manage the items listed in the Quick Access menu. It gives you more control over the items listed, however it also means you must delete items every now and then.

You can also disable the Quick Access menu completely from the Folder Options menu in File Explorer.