Do not show recent files Windows 10 is a common issue faced by many users who want to maintain their privacy and control over their digital footprint. This setting, when enabled, prevents Windows 10 from displaying a list of recently accessed files and folders in the File Explorer. However, it can sometimes be toggled accidentally or intentionally disabled, leading to the appearance of recent files in the File Explorer. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this setting, how to enable or disable it, and the potential implications of not showing recent files in Windows 10.
The “Do not show recent files” option is part of Windows 10’s privacy settings, which are designed to help users manage their data and protect their privacy. When this setting is enabled, Windows 10 will not store or display a list of recently accessed files and folders in the File Explorer. This can be particularly useful for users who are concerned about their privacy or who do not want others to see what they have been working on.
There are several reasons why a user might want to enable this setting. For instance, some users may be working on sensitive documents or projects that they do not want others to know about. Others may simply prefer to keep their digital activities private and not have them cluttered in the File Explorer. Additionally, disabling the “Do not show recent files” setting can sometimes lead to performance issues, as Windows 10 may attempt to load and display the list of recent files, which can slow down the File Explorer.
To enable or disable the “Do not show recent files” setting in Windows 10, follow these steps:
1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting “Settings” from the menu.
2. In the Settings app, click on “Privacy.”
3. In the left-hand pane, click on “General.”
4. Scroll down to the “Show or hide recently opened items in File Explorer” section and toggle the switch to “Off” to disable the setting, or to “On” to enable it.
It is important to note that disabling the “Do not show recent files” setting will not delete the list of recently accessed files and folders from Windows 10’s system memory. The list will still be available in the File Explorer’s history, and it may be accessible to other users who have access to the computer.
In conclusion, the “Do not show recent files” setting in Windows 10 is a useful tool for users who want to maintain their privacy and control over their digital footprint. By understanding the reasons behind this setting and how to enable or disable it, users can make informed decisions about their privacy and performance preferences.
