Windows 11: Turn Off Recent Activity in the Start Menu

Summary

Want a cleaner Start menu? Follow these simple steps to turn off recent activity and app history.

Body

Guide Topic

Want a cleaner Start menu? Follow these simple steps to turn off recent activity and app history:

Instructions

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings
  2. Click Personalization on the left side.

Windows settings menu with Personalization highlighted
 

  1. Click Start on the right.

Windows settings menu with Start option highlighted

  1. Use the switches to turn off options like “Show recently added apps” and “Show recently opened items.”

Start menu layout and app visibility options

 

Details

Details

Article ID: 284
Created
Wed 5/18/22 5:25 PM
Modified
Thu 11/6/25 11:13 AM