Getting rid of the “Recommended” section on Windows 11 isn’t exactly a secret trick or some hidden setting, but it can be a bit odd how it’s tucked away. If those annoying suggestions popping up in your Start menu—files, recent apps, whatever—are frustrating you, this guide can help tidy things up without messing with your setup too much. The idea is to have a cleaner, less cluttered Start menu that feels more like you. It’s pretty easy to do, but Windows can be a bit convoluted sometimes, so just bear with it.
How to Remove Recommended on Windows 11
Getting into Settings the right way
First off, open your Settings. The quickest way is to click the Start button or press the Windows key, then select the gear icon Settings. Sometimes right-clicking the Start button and choosing Settings is faster. From there, just follow the menus to where you need to be.
Navigate to Personalisation and the Start Menu
Once you’re in Settings, click on Personalisation on the left. Scroll down a bit and select Start. This is where Windows controls what shows up when you click the Start button or press the Windows key.
Turn off the Recommended items
In the Start settings, you’ll see options like Show recent items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer and Show recently added apps. You want to turn these off. To specifically remove the “Recommended” section, look for an option called Show recently started apps or suggestions and switch that off. Sometimes it’s hidden a bit, so you might need to scroll or toggle all related options if you want to be thorough.
On some setups, that’s enough, but others might need you to also disable Show suggestions occasionally in Start. Turning these off stops Windows from constantly trying to ‘help’ with recent files and suggestions, clearing the clutter.
Check your changes and restart if needed
After switching those options off, open your Start menu again. The “Recommended” section should be gone or at least much smaller. If it’s still there, a quick reboot or logging out and back in often sorts it out. Windows can be a bit quirky like that.
Extra Tips to Keep in Mind
- Use the Search Bar: Instead of digging through menus, just hit Windows key + S and type “Start” or “Personalisation” to find settings quick as a whip.
- Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes display or setting issues are due to Windows being out of date. Make sure you’re on the latest build—go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Backup before making big changes: If you’re tweaking a lot, it’s a good idea to back up your system or create a restore point just in case.
- Explore other personalisation options: While you’re poking around, it’s worth seeing what else you can customise. Windows hides some handy features in places you wouldn’t normally look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows 11 keep showing recommended stuff?
It’s trying to help by showing recent files and apps you might want quick access to. But if you prefer a minimalist look, most folks just turn it off.
Can I get rid of the Recommended section completely?
Yes, just switch off those suggestions in Personalisation > Start settings, and it’ll mostly disappear from your view.
Will disabling Recommended slow down my PC?
Nah, it’s only a visual thing. Turning it off doesn’t affect how your PC runs—just stops the suggestions from showing up.
What if I want the suggestions back later?
No worries. Just head back into the same settings and flick the options back on. Easy as.
Summary
- Open Start > Settings
- Go to Personalisation > Start
- Switch off options related to recent items and suggestions
- Reboot if needed
Wrap-up
Honestly, removing the “Recommended” section isn’t a big deal, but it really can make Windows 11 look a lot cleaner—especially if you’re not a fan of unnecessary suggestions. A few toggles here and there, and your Start menu looks way tidier. Not sure why Microsoft makes it so hidden, but this workaround does the trick.
Hopefully, this saves someone a bit of hassle. It’s a quick fix with a pretty noticeable difference in your day-to-day use.