Want Quick Access to quit cluttering up with folders you don’t want? No worries, it’s doable – though it’s a bit tucked away in Windows 11. Basically, Windows likes to chuck in your recent files and a bunch of your most-used folders into Quick Access by default. Sometimes it’s handy, but if you prefer a cleaner look or you’re just over the constant tidying up, here’s how to dial it back without messing around with tricky registry hacks.
How to Stop Quick Access from Adding Folders in Windows 11
This involves poking around in File Explorer’s settings. These steps will help stop Windows from automatically tossing your previous folders into Quick Access. Heads up, it might not be perfect—sometimes Windows acts a bit wonky even after you make these changes. A quick restart or reopening File Explorer often sorts it out. And on some setups, unchecking those boxes doesn’t do much straight away—you might need to do it a few times or restart for it to take effect.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Start with File Explorer. You can find it on your taskbar (the folder icon) or press Windows key + E. Easy as, and it’s your first port of call for this tweak.
Step 2: Head to Folder Options
In File Explorer, click on the View tab, then click on Options (or sometimes it says Change folder and search options). Alternatively, hit Alt + F and pick Options from the menu.
Here’s the tricky bit: Windows sometimes hides this menu, but it’s usually under View or a three-dot menu (depending on your version). Once you’re in, you’ll land in the Folder Options window.
Step 3: Find the Privacy Section
Look for the General tab—this is where most of the privacy magic happens. Down the bottom, you’ll see the Privacy section, which controls what Windows “remembers.”
Some folks miss that these options are right there, so make sure you’re on the right tab.
Step 4: Uncheck Both Boxes
Now, uncheck the boxes labeled Show recently used files in Quick Access and Show frequently used folders in Quick Access. Windows has this odd habit of trying to guess what you want, but honestly, it just clutters your view.
This stops Windows from adding folders on its own. Bit weird that these are often on by default on some versions, but hey, Windows likes to keep you on your toes.
Step 5: Hit Apply and Close
Click on Apply and then OK. That’s like giving Windows the nudge that you don’t want it auto-adding folders anymore. Sometimes you need to close and reopen File Explorer, or do a quick restart, for the changes to really kick in.
Once you’re done, Quick Access won’t automatically fill up with your recent or often-used folders. Instead, if you want certain folders there, you’ll have to pin them manually—just right-click the folder and hit Pin to Quick Access. Slightly more effort but way cleaner and more controlled.
Tips for Keeping Quick Access tidy in Windows 11
- You can pin the important folders yourself so they stay put—no surprises there.
- To keep things tidy, clear your Quick Access history now and then. There’s an option for that in the same Folder Options window under privacy.
- If you’re into dragging and dropping, use it to add folders you really want quick access to—but don’t let Windows decide for you.
- Adjust the File Explorer view settings to suit your style—less scrolling, better overview.
- If you change your mind later, just recheck those boxes, and Windows will start auto-adding folders again.
FAQs
Why isn’t Quick Access showing recent folders anymore?
This usually happens if you’ve unchecked the “Show recently used files in Quick Access” option. Windows stops remembering, so your Quick Access stays nice and tidy, but a bit less handy.
Can I still pin folders manually?
Bloody oath. Just right-click any folder and select Pin to Quick Access. Easy as. Keeps what you want front and centre.
How do I clear the Quick Access history?
In the same Folder Options window, under the Privacy section, hit the Clear button. That’ll wipe out the recent and frequent folder list.
Will changing these settings affect other users?
Nah, it’s just for your profile. Tinkering with your settings won’t mess with what other people see on the PC.
Can I undo this if I change my mind?
You bet. Just head back into Folder Options, recheck those boxes, click Apply, and Windows will start auto-adding folders again. No dramas.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Head to Folder Options.
- Go to the Privacy section in the General tab.
- Uncheck the boxes for recent & frequent folders.
- Hit Apply, OK, and restart File Explorer if needed.
Hopefully, this’ll save you a bit of time and hassle. It’s about getting control back over your workspace—less distraction, more focus. Remember, Windows will try to help, but sometimes you’ve gotta tell it to take a back seat. Good luck tweaking those settings and making your File Explorer behave how you like!