How to Delete Recent Files in Windows 11
Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, comes with a variety of new features and improvements. One of the most frequently used features is the ability to access recent files. However, there may be instances where you want to delete these recent files to maintain privacy or free up space on your computer. In this article, we will guide you through the process of deleting recent files in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
To begin the process, click on the Start button located at the bottom left corner of your screen. This will open the Start menu, where you can access various applications and settings.
Step 2: Access the Settings
Once the Start menu is open, click on the gear icon to access the Settings. This will open a new window where you can customize various aspects of your Windows 11 experience.
Step 3: Navigate to Privacy & Security
In the Settings window, scroll down and click on “Privacy & Security.” This section contains settings related to privacy, security, and other system-related features.
Step 4: Select “Activity History”
Within the Privacy & Security section, you will find a list of options on the left-hand side. Click on “Activity History” to view and manage your recent activity.
Step 5: Turn Off Activity History
In the Activity History section, you will see a toggle switch labeled “Let Windows track activity and information from this device.” To delete recent files, you need to turn off this feature. Simply click on the toggle switch to disable it.
Step 6: Delete Specific Recent Files
After turning off Activity History, you can now delete specific recent files. To do this, navigate to the “Manage activity” link located at the bottom of the Activity History section. This will open a new window displaying a list of recent files and activities.
Step 7: Select and Delete Files
In the Manage activity window, you will see a list of recent files and activities. To delete a specific file, click on the checkbox next to the file, and then click on the “Delete” button at the top of the window. You can also select multiple files to delete them at once.
Step 8: Confirm Deletion
After selecting the files you want to delete, a confirmation prompt will appear. Click on “Delete” to permanently remove the selected files from your system.
Conclusion
Deleting recent files in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily manage and delete your recent files to maintain privacy and free up space on your computer. Remember to regularly review and delete unnecessary files to keep your system running smoothly.
