Is Quick Access in Windows 11 constantly adding folders you don’t want? Here’s a quick solution to stop that. You can prevent Quick Access from adding folders by tweaking the settings in File Explorer. It involves accessing Folder Options and making a few changes. Let’s break it down step by step.
How to Stop Quick Access from Adding Folders in Windows 11
In this guide, you’ll learn how to stop Quick Access in Windows 11 from automatically adding folders. Don’t worry, it’s a simple process and you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
First, open File Explorer by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar.
File Explorer is the app you use to browse files on your computer. It should be pinned to your taskbar for easy access.
Step 2: Go to ‘View’ Tab
Next, click on the ‘View’ tab at the top of File Explorer.
The ‘View’ tab allows you to change how files and folders are displayed inside File Explorer.
Step 3: Click on ‘Options’
After that, click on ‘Options’ on the right side of the View tab.
The ‘Options’ button will open the Folder Options menu, where you can adjust various settings.
Step 4: Open ‘Folder Options’ Dialog Box
Clicking ‘Options’ will bring up the ‘Folder Options’ dialog box.
The dialog box is where the real work happens. This is where you’ll make the changes to stop Quick Access from adding folders.
Step 5: Go to ‘Privacy’ Section
Inside the Folder Options dialog box, navigate to the ‘Privacy’ section at the bottom.
The ‘Privacy’ section contains settings that control the behavior of Quick Access.
Step 6: Uncheck ‘Show recently used files in Quick Access’
Under the Privacy section, uncheck the box for ‘Show recently used files in Quick Access’.
Unchecking this will stop Quick Access from automatically adding recently used files.
Step 7: Uncheck ‘Show frequently used folders in Quick Access’
Then, uncheck the box for ‘Show frequently used folders in Quick Access’.
This final step ensures that no frequently used folders will be shown in Quick Access.
Step 8: Click ‘Apply’ and ‘OK’
Finally, click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’ to save your changes.
By clicking ‘Apply’ and ‘OK’, you confirm the changes and close the Folder Options dialog box.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Quick Access will no longer automatically add folders. Your Quick Access view will stay just as you set it, without adding any new, unwanted folders.
Tips for Stopping Quick Access from Adding Folders in Windows 11
- Make sure to regularly check the ‘Privacy’ section in Folder Options to ensure settings haven’t reverted.
- Customize Quick Access manually by pinning your preferred folders.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to quickly access Folder Options (Alt + V, then Y and O).
- Clear Quick Access history if it gets cluttered by clicking ‘Clear’ in the Privacy section.
- Restart File Explorer to ensure changes take effect by closing and reopening it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pin folders to Quick Access manually?
Right-click the folder you want to pin and select ‘Pin to Quick Access’.
Can I completely disable Quick Access?
No, Quick Access itself cannot be completely disabled, but you can prevent it from showing recent and frequent items.
Does this affect the actual folders on my computer?
No, these changes only affect what is displayed in Quick Access, not the actual files or folders on your computer.
How do I clear Quick Access history?
Go to Folder Options, then under the Privacy section, click on ‘Clear’.
Will this change affect all users on my computer?
No, these settings are specific to your user profile.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Go to ‘View’ Tab.
- Click on ‘Options’.
- Open ‘Folder Options’ Dialog Box.
- Go to ‘Privacy’ Section.
- Uncheck ‘Show recently used files in Quick Access’.
- Uncheck ‘Show frequently used folders in Quick Access’.
- Click ‘Apply’ and ‘OK’.
Conclusion
There you have it! A straightforward way to stop Quick Access from adding folders in Windows 11. By tweaking a few settings in the Folder Options menu, you can take control of what appears in Quick Access. This simple change can make your user experience much smoother and tailored to your preferences.
Remember, Quick Access is designed to help you get to your files faster, but it doesn’t always get it right. By following these steps, you can customize Quick Access to better suit your needs. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to explore more tips and tricks to optimize your Windows 11 experience. Happy computing!