How to Remove Recommended Files from the Start Menu in Windows 11

Step by step

1. 15 sec

   Open the Settings application

   Press the Windows key on your keyboard and click the Settings icon, which resembles a gear. Alternatively, press Windows + I to launch the application immediately.

   Note: Windows + I
2. 15 sec

   Access the Personalization menu

   In the left-hand navigation sidebar, click on Personalization. This menu contains all configuration options for the Windows interface, including the taskbar and Start menu.

3. 10 sec

   Open Start settings

   Within the Personalization main window, scroll down the list and click on the Start tile. This displays specific toggles for layout, folders, and recommendations.

4. 15 sec

   Disable recommendations

   Locate the toggle labeled Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more. Switch the toggle to the Off position to hide new app suggestions.

5. 15 sec

   Disable recent files

   Locate the toggle labeled Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer. Switch this toggle to the Off position to ensure your files no longer populate the Start menu.

   Note: Disabling this will also clear your recent files list in the Taskbar Jump Lists.
6. 10 sec

   Confirm the changes

   Press the Windows key to open the Start menu. The Recommended section will now display a message stating that you have no recent files or apps to show, effectively clearing the space.

   Note: Windows