Hiding apps on Windows 11 can help keep your desktop clutter-free and your private files safe from prying eyes. You can achieve this by using the Start menu, hiding apps from the taskbar, or employing third-party software. Here’s a quick guide to show you how it’s done.
How to Hide Apps on Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk you through some effective ways to hide apps on your Windows 11 device. By following these steps, you can maintain a tidy workspace and keep certain applications under wraps.
Step 1: Use the Start Menu
Open the Start menu and right-click on the app you wish to hide, then select “Unpin from Start.”
Removing the app from the Start menu won’t uninstall it; it’s simply hidden from view. You can always access it by searching for it in the search bar.
Step 2: Hide from the Taskbar
Right-click on the app icon on your taskbar and select “Unpin from taskbar.”
This will remove the app from displaying on your taskbar, keeping your taskbar free of clutter. The app remains installed and accessible through other methods.
Step 3: Use the Settings Menu
Go to Settings > Personalization > Start and toggle “Show recently added apps” and “Show most used apps” off.
This option prevents Windows from automatically showing apps you have recently used or installed, keeping your Start menu looking minimal and organized.
Step 4: Create a New Folder
Create a new folder anywhere on your computer and move the apps into that folder.
This trick is old but gold, allowing you to manually consolidate apps into one place, making them less visible on your desktop or Start menu.
Step 5: Use Third-Party Software
Download an app-hiding software like “HideWizard” to hide apps more securely.
Third-party software can provide more features and security by allowing you to password-protect hidden apps, ensuring that they stay out of sight from unauthorized access.
Once you’ve completed these actions, your app will be hidden from plain sight. While the apps remain on your system and are accessible via search or exploring your files, they won’t be immediately visible on your Start menu, taskbar, or desktop, making your workspace tidier and more secure.
Tips for Hiding Apps on Windows 11
- Keep a list of hidden apps so you don’t forget where you placed them.
- Use Windows search to access hidden apps quickly without navigating through menus.
- Be cautious when using third-party apps; always download from reputable sources to avoid security risks.
- Periodically check your hidden apps folder to ensure you don’t lose track of important applications.
- Consider using shortcuts to frequently-used apps to keep your workflow efficient while keeping the desktop clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hide apps permanently on Windows 11?
You can hide apps from the Start menu and taskbar, but they remain installed and accessible via search.
Will hiding an app affect its performance?
No, hiding an app only removes its visible icon. The app still runs and functions as usual.
How do I find a hidden app again?
Use the Windows search feature or navigate to the folders where you’ve stored the app.
Is there a way to password-protect hidden apps?
Yes, using third-party software can allow you to password-protect apps for enhanced security.
Can I hide system apps on Windows 11?
System apps generally cannot be hidden using built-in Windows features and may require third-party software.
Summary
- Use the Start Menu to unpin apps.
- Hide from the Taskbar by unpinning.
- Adjust settings to hide recent apps.
- Organize into a new folder.
- Use third-party software for enhanced hiding.
Conclusion
In the digital age, keeping our devices organized and secure is more important than ever. With Windows 11, you have multiple built-in options for keeping your apps out of sight, whether you want to declutter your workspace or maintain privacy. Each method offers its own advantages, from the simplicity of unpinning from the Start menu and taskbar to the more robust options available through third-party software.
While hiding apps on Windows 11 won’t uninstall them or affect their performance, it does help streamline your experience and protect your personal or professional information. These methods are like tidying up a messy room—you don’t throw things away; you just put them in their proper place, ensuring everything is organized and easily accessible when you need it.
For those who handle sensitive information or share a computer with others, keeping some apps hidden can also offer a layer of privacy. Remember, however, to keep track of your hidden applications using lists or regular checks, so nothing gets misplaced. As you explore these techniques, feel free to adapt them to suit your unique needs and maintain a balance between accessibility and aesthetics.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.