How to Hide Apps in Windows 11
Hiding apps in Windows 11 is a piece of cake. You can do it in just a few steps using the Start Menu, Settings, and Group Policy. In no time, you’ll be able to keep prying eyes away from your private apps. This guide will walk you through each method so you can choose the one that works best for you.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Hide Apps in Windows 11
These steps will show you how to hide apps in Windows 11 using different methods like the Start Menu, Settings, and Group Policy Editor.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start Menu button on your taskbar.
This is the blue Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Once you click it, the Start Menu will pop up, showing you a list of all your installed apps.
Step 2: Locate the App You Want to Hide
Scroll through the Start Menu to find the app you want to hide.
Take your time and look through the list. The app might be in a folder, so check those too. Once you find it, right-click on the app.
Step 3: Hide the App from the Start Menu
Right-click on the app and select "Unpin from Start."
This option will remove the app from the Start Menu but won’t uninstall it. The app is still on your computer, just not visible in the Start Menu.
Step 4: Open Settings
Press the Win + I keys together to open the Settings app.
Alternatively, you can click the Start Menu and select the gear icon. This will open the Settings window where you can manage various system settings.
Step 5: Navigate to Apps Settings
In the Settings window, click on "Apps."
This will open a new menu on the left side. Click on "Apps & features" here. This section allows you to control various aspects related to the apps installed on your device.
Step 6: Manage App Visibility
Scroll through the Apps & features list to find the app you want to hide.
Click on the three dots next to the app name and select "Advanced options." Here, you can toggle various settings to manage the app’s visibility.
Step 7: Use Group Policy Editor (Optional)
Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
This tool is more advanced and allows you to hide apps on a deeper level. Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar > Remove Programs from Start Menu.
After following these steps, your app will no longer be visible in the Start Menu or other common locations. It will still be on your computer, just not easy to find.
Tips for Hiding Apps in Windows 11
- Use Folders: Create folders to group and hide less-used or private apps.
- Hide Icons: Right-click on the desktop and choose "View" > "Show desktop icons" to hide all desktop icons.
- Third-Party Software: Consider using third-party apps designed to hide icons and apps.
- Use Task View: Virtual desktops can help keep certain apps hidden from your main workspace.
- Regular Check: Regularly check and manage your hidden apps to ensure you don’t forget about them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access hidden apps?
You can search for them in the Start Menu search bar or navigate through File Explorer if you know the file path.
Are hidden apps still running?
Hidden apps are not running unless you launch them. They are simply not visible.
Can I hide system apps?
Hiding system apps can be risky. It’s generally not recommended unless you absolutely know what you’re doing.
Will hiding apps affect performance?
Hiding apps won’t affect your computer’s performance. They’re still installed but not displayed.
Can I unhide apps later?
Yes, you can unhide apps by reversing the steps you took to hide them.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Locate the app you want to hide.
- Right-click and select "Unpin from Start."
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Apps Settings.
- Manage app visibility in Advanced options.
- Use Group Policy Editor if needed.
Conclusion
Hiding apps in Windows 11 is quite simple once you know the steps. Whether you’re using the Start Menu, Settings, or Group Policy Editor, you have multiple ways to keep certain apps out of sight. This can be particularly useful if you share your computer with others and want to keep some apps private.
By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to manage your apps more effectively. Remember, hidden apps are still on your computer, just not in plain sight.
If you want to dive deeper into managing your Windows 11 system, consider reading more about advanced settings and tips for optimizing your user experience.