The Recommended section in the Start menu is one of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11. It shows recently opened files, apps, and suggestions right below your pinned apps.
For some users, it’s convenient. For others, it feels unnecessary or raises privacy concerns. The good part is that you can control it easily.
What the Recommended Section Actually Shows
The Recommended section displays:
- Recently opened files
- Frequently used apps
- Suggested content (sometimes from Microsoft services)
It updates dynamically based on your activity, which is why it can feel inconsistent or cluttered over time.
How to Disable Recommended Files in Start Menu
If you want a cleaner Start menu, you can turn this off completely.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Go to Personalization > Start
- Turn OFF:
- Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer
- Show recommended files in Start
Once disabled, the Recommended section becomes mostly empty.
How to Reduce Instead of Fully Disabling
If you don’t want to remove it completely, you can limit what it shows.
- Turn off only recommended files
- Keep recently opened items enabled
This gives you some functionality without too much clutter.
How to Clear Existing Recommendations
Even after turning settings off, previously shown items may still appear.
To clear them:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Start
- Toggle Show recently opened items OFF
- Toggle it back ON (optional)
This refreshes and clears history.
Why You Might Want to Turn It Off
Privacy
Anyone using your PC can see recently opened files directly from Start.
Cleaner Interface
Removing recommendations makes the Start menu look more minimal and focused.
Less Distraction
You only see what you pin, not what Windows suggests.
When It’s Actually Useful
You may want to keep it enabled if:
- You frequently reopen recent documents
- You switch between files often
- You want quick access without searching
In these cases, it saves time.
Real-World Insight
Most users either:
- Use the Recommended section heavily
- Or ignore it completely
If you are not actively using it, turning it off improves the overall experience more than expected.
Limitations
Even after disabling:
- Some app-level recommendations may still exist
- Cloud-based suggestions (like OneDrive) can appear elsewhere
But the Start menu itself will stay clean.
Final Thoughts
The Recommended section in the Start menu of Windows 11 is optional, not essential.
If you value quick access, keep it. If you prefer a cleaner and more private interface, turning it off is one of the simplest improvements you can make.
FAQs
What is the Recommended section in Start menu?
It shows recently opened files and suggested items.
Can I remove it completely?
You can disable its content, but the section itself remains.
Does this delete my files?
No, it only hides suggestions.
Is it useful?
Yes, if you rely on recent files frequently.
Does it affect performance?
No, it mainly affects visibility and usability.
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