To stop Quick Access from adding folders in Windows 11, you’ll need to tweak some settings in File Explorer. By going into the options menu, you can prevent frequently used folders from automatically appearing in Quick Access. This means you have more control over which folders are pinned and removes clutter from your view. Follow these steps to maintain a more organized File Explorer experience.
How to Stop Quick Access from Adding Folders in Windows 11
We’re about to take a tour through Windows 11’s File Explorer settings. These steps will help you customize your Quick Access so it doesn’t automatically add folders you recently accessed.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Start by opening the File Explorer from your taskbar or Start menu.
File Explorer is your gateway to all files and folders on your computer. It’s usually pinned on your taskbar as a folder icon, making it easy to find.
Step 2: Access Folder Options
Once in File Explorer, click on the “View” tab and then select “Options,” followed by “Change folder and search options.”
The Folder Options window is where you’ll find various settings that control how your files and folders are displayed and managed.
Step 3: Navigate to Privacy Section
In the Folder Options window, focus on the “General” tab and look for the “Privacy” section at the bottom.
The Privacy section is the key area where you can manage what Quick Access remembers and displays.
Step 4: Uncheck both Boxes
Uncheck the boxes labeled “Show recently used files in Quick Access” and “Show frequently used folders in Quick Access.”
These two boxes are responsible for the automatic addition of recent and frequent folders in Quick Access. By unchecking them, you stop this from happening.
Step 5: Apply and Close
Click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save your changes and exit.
Applying these changes will ensure that your new settings take effect immediately. You may need to close and reopen File Explorer to see the difference.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Quick Access will stop automatically adding folders. Instead, it will only display items you manually pin, giving you full control over what appears.
Tips for Stopping Quick Access from Adding Folders in Windows 11
- Consider manually pinning important folders to Quick Access for easy access instead of relying on automatic additions.
- Regularly clear your Quick Access history if privacy is a concern, which can be done in the same Folder Options window.
- Use the drag-and-drop method to quickly add folders you want in Quick Access.
- Customize the File Explorer layout to better fit your workflow by using the “View” tab options.
- Remember that you can always revert changes if you want Quick Access to start showing recent and frequent folders again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t Quick Access show my recent folders anymore?
If Quick Access isn’t showing recent folders, it may be because you’ve unchecked the “Show recently used files in Quick Access” option.
Can I still pin folders manually?
Yes, you can still pin folders manually by right-clicking on them and selecting “Pin to Quick Access.”
How do I clear my Quick Access history?
To clear your Quick Access history, go to the Folder Options in File Explorer and click “Clear” in the Privacy section.
Will these settings affect other users on my computer?
No, these settings are specific to your user profile and won’t impact other users on the same computer.
Is there a way to revert the changes I made?
Yes, simply go back to the Folder Options and recheck the boxes for showing recent and frequent folders, then apply the changes.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Access Folder Options.
- Navigate to Privacy Section.
- Uncheck both Boxes.
- Apply and Close.
Conclusion
Blocking Quick Access from automatically adding folders in Windows 11 can be a game-changer for anyone who values a tidy desktop experience. Let’s face it, nobody likes a cluttered workspace, whether it’s physical or digital. By taking a few minutes to adjust these settings, you’ll save yourself from constantly sorting through unwanted folders that pop up uninvited.
Having control over what shows up in your Quick Access allows you to prioritize what’s truly important to you. Maybe it’s that project folder you’re working on or a shortcut to your favorite vacation photos. Either way, you’re the one calling the shots now.
For those interested in taking their file management skills to the next level, there are plenty of online tutorials and resources that dive deeper into Windows 11’s features. So, take the time to explore and refine your digital housekeeping skills. After all, when your digital world is organized, everything else seems a bit more manageable.
Feel empowered to customize your Windows 11 experience further, and don’t hesitate to share this newfound wisdom with friends or colleagues who might also appreciate a streamlined Quick Access.
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.