1. Understanding the Home Folder in Windows
Every Windows user account has a dedicated “home folder” located at `C:\Users\YourUsername`. This directory contains subfolders like Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, and more. When you launch File Explorer and click on “Home,” you’re essentially viewing a summary of all your personal data in this folder.
In addition to manually saved files, this folder also silently logs files you recently opened — a feature that can quickly become a privacy issue on shared computers.
2. The Risk of Recent Files: Convenience vs Privacy
Windows enhances convenience by displaying a “Recent Files” section in the Home folder. This feature provides quick access to files you’ve recently worked on. However, it also creates a privacy loophole — anyone using your computer can see what files you’ve accessed recently.
These recent files are actually stored as shortcut files in a hidden folder, and not in the original locations themselves. This makes it easier for Windows to display them quickly, but also easier for someone else to snoop.
3. Locating the Real Path of Recent Files
To understand where these shortcuts are stored:
- Open File Explorer and go to your user folder: `C:\Users\YourUsername`.
- Enable hidden items by clicking the “View” tab, selecting “Options,” and then ticking “Show hidden files, folders, and drives.”
- Navigate to: `AppData > Roaming > Microsoft > Windows > Recent`
- This “Recent” folder contains `.lnk` (shortcut) files. Right-click on any of them and select “Properties” to see the real location of the original file. This is how Windows builds the Recent Files view — by linking to files, not duplicating them.
4. How to Disable Recent Files from Appearing in File Explorer
To remove this privacy concern:
- Open File Explorer and click the three dots in the upper right corner.
- Select “Options.”
- In the Folder Options window, go to the Privacy section.
- Uncheck “Show recently used files in Quick Access” and optionally “Show frequently used folders.”
- Click “OK” to confirm.
Once you disable these options, File Explorer will no longer display a list of recently used files. This step is especially useful for those handling sensitive documents on shared machines.
5. Final Thoughts: Your User Folder Is a Data Hub
The Windows home folder is more than just storage — it’s a central hub that also tracks your file activity. Understanding how it works and learning how to manage recent file history empowers you to take control of your privacy.
If you regularly work with private documents or share your computer, make it a habit to review or disable recent file listings. For more advanced tips and in-depth guides on Windows, consider subscribing to our premium section for exclusive content.
6. Demo Video
You can watch the following demo video by select the subtitle to your preferred subtitle language.