How to Add or Remove Recent Files in File Explorer Home in Windows 11 Windows 11 makes it simple to find your work with the recent files section in File Explorer, but while convenient, it can also create clutter and even pose a small security risk on protected drives. Before we begin, be sure to subscribe to NinjaOne’s IT video hub and our YouTube channel for more tech content like this. Method 1: Use File Explorer options Before we get started, keep in mind that switching off Recent Files n File Explorer also clears your current file history. Here's how to switch the recent section on or off from the File Explorer homepage. Press Win + R, type control, and press Enter. In Control Panel, open File Explorer Options. Under the General tab, find Privacy. Uncheck Show recently used files. Click apply then okay. Method 2: Modify the Registry This method requires admin rights to edit the registry. Be sure to back it up first. Note that changing these registry values will clear the recent tab permanently instead of removing it. Windows 11 build 22635.3930 (Beta) 26120.1843 (Dev) 27783.1000 (Canary) and later Here’s how advanced users can apply Registry changes o adjust File Explorer settings on a single PC or across multiple devices: Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter. In Registry Editor, go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer In the right pane, double-click ShowRecent to edit it. If it’s missing, right-click > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it ShowRecent. Set the value 1 = Enable the Recent tab 0 = Disable the Recent tab Click okay. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Find windows explorer. Right click it and select restart. Method 3: Use Group Policy Admin permissions are required to set enterprise level policies for the File Explorer homepage. On a domain controller/admin PC, press Win + R, type gpmc.msc, and press Enter. Right-click the target Organizational Unit (OU) → Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here… Name the GPO (e.g., Turn off Recent tab in File Explorer). Right-click the GPO → Edit. Go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar. Find the policy Do not keep a history of recently opened documents. Double click it, then choose: Enabled = Permanently clears the Recent tab Disabled = Keeps the Recent tab (default) Click Apply, then OK. Changing file visibility in Windows 11 helps protect sensitive data nd keeps File Explorer clutter-free. While it’s a small setting, managing the Recent Files tab reinforces confidentiality, educes the risk of data leaks, and keeps your team’s workflow organized. For more information, check out our official blog post on how to add or remove recent files in File Explorer home. Linked in the description below.