Buzz
This guide will show you how to erase your computer's file history, including recently accessed files and search suggestions. Whether you're using a Windows or Mac computer, you can follow these steps. Remember, for clearing web-based history, you'll need to delete your browsing history from your browser's settings.
Follow These Steps
Removing Search History on Windows
Access Cortana's Search Box. Located on the taskbar's left side, just next to the Windows icon, click on it to open Cortana's window. If you can't find it, simply right-click the taskbar, select Cortana, and then click Show search box.
Locate and tap on Delete my device's history. This option is listed beneath 'My device's history'. Selecting this clears your device's on-device search history.
Select Search history preferences. This link appears under 'My search history'. Clicking it redirects to a Bing page showing your search history chronologically. Note: Internet access is required to view this page.
Access Modify history settings. Find this option near the top of the Bing page. A menu will appear once selected.
Opt for Erase all records. Located within the 'Clear search history' section of the menu.
Confirm by selecting Affirmative. This final step ensures the complete removal of Cortana's search history, both locally and online.
Clearing File History on Windows
- You can alternatively press the ⊞ Win key on your computer's keyboard.
Tap on Access. Located at the top-left corner within the File Explorer window. A dropdown menu will emerge beneath the Access tab.
Press Modify. This is symbolized by a box-shaped icon positioned on the far-right edge of the Access menu.
Click on the General tab. This tab is located at the upper-left corner within the Folder Options window.
Tap on Clear. Find this option in the 'Privacy' section at the bottom of the window. Clicking it will delete your recent searches from File Explorer.
- If you've pinned folders or files to File Explorer, they won't be affected.
Keep your future search history private. Deselect both the Show recently used files in Quick Access and Show recently used folders in Quick Access checkboxes in the 'Privacy' section. While optional, this action prevents searched items from showing up in File Explorer's search bar.
Press OK. Located at the bottom of the Folder Options window. Your File Explorer history should now be clear.
Erasing File and App History on Mac
Choose Recent Items. Located near the top of the Apple drop-down menu. A pop-out menu will display a list of your recently accessed apps and files.
Press Clear Menu. Find this choice at the base of the pop-out list. This action will remove the contents of the pop-out menu.
Removing Folder History on Mac
Launch Finder. Look for the blue, face-like app in your Mac's Dock.
- You can alternatively click on your desktop.
Click Navigate. This option can be found on the left side of your Mac's menu bar, positioned at the top of the screen. Clicking Navigate triggers a drop-down menu.
Choose Recent Documents. It's located at the end of the Navigate drop-down menu. A pop-out window will emerge to the right of Recent Documents, displaying a list of your recently accessed folders.
Press Clear Menu. Find this option at the bottom of the pop-out menu. This action will erase the list of recently visited folders.
Useful Tips
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Consider installing a file manager like TinkerTool System to manage all your recent items on Mac.
Important Warnings
- Keep in mind that removing search history will reset autofill settings on Windows.
