changes to the start-up page in Windows 11

Arthur Jones 0 Reputation points
2026-05-03T01:11:54.68+00:00

How do I customize the start-up screen? It opens too many files.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Desktop, Start, and personalization | Start Menu
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  1. AI answer

    2026-05-03T01:12:10.65+00:00

    To reduce what opens and shows on the Windows 11 Start screen and customize it:

    1. Control which apps and items are pinned
      1. Open Start.
      2. In the Pins section, right‑click any app, folder, or website tile that is not needed and select Unpin from Start.
      3. To pin only what is needed:
        • Use the Search box on the taskbar or Start, type an app name, right‑click it, and select Pin to Start.
        • In File Explorer, right‑click a folder and select Pin to Start.
        • In Microsoft Edge, open a website, select the three‑dot menu (More options) > More tools > Pin to Start.
    2. Adjust “Recommended” and recent items behavior
      1. Open Settings > Personalization > Start.
      2. Use the toggles to control whether recently opened items and recommended files appear. Turning these off reduces how many files are shown or suggested on Start.
    3. Understand the Start layout
      • Search: For finding apps, files, and settings.
      • Pins: Grid of pinned apps, folders, and websites; customize this by pinning/unpinning as above.
      • Recommendations: Recently added/frequently used apps and recently opened files; controlled by the Start settings toggles.

    By unpinning unneeded items and turning off or limiting recommended/recent items, the Start screen will show fewer files and be less cluttered.

    References:

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  2. CrazyKats 18,035 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2026-05-03T01:14:41.07+00:00

    Hi Arthur,

    You can also change the look of the

    Start screen by using this:

    User's image

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    1 person found this answer helpful.

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