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Start menu is an essential and constantly-used feature on Windows 10. It allows quick access to files, programs, and settings. However, sometimes you may find yourself in a situation where you need to remove a file from the start menu. This can happen when a file or program is no longer needed, or if it was added to the start menu by mistake. In this blog post, we will discuss various methods of removing files from the start menu on Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Remove Files from Start Menu Windows 10
The start menu on Windows 10 is an efficient way to launch frequently used programs, files, and settings. However, as you continue to add files and applications, your start menu will become cluttered. This makes it difficult to find what you need and can slow down your productivity. Therefore, removing unnecessary files from the start menu can help you keep it organized and improve its overall performance.
Here are some additional reasons why you need to remove files from the start menu on Windows 10:
– Improve search results: The start menu search bar can be a great way to find what you need. However, if there are too many files and applications in the start menu, it may take longer to receive helpful search results.
– Free up space: Removing unused files and applications can free up space on your start menu. This can help reduce the amount of scrolling you need to do and make it easier to find what you need.
– Improve organization: Having a cluttered start menu can make it challenging to find what you need. By removing unnecessary files and applications, you can improve the organization and functionality of your start menu.
Method 1: Remove Files from Start Menu via Settings
Removing files from the start menu via settings is an easy and straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Click on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Click on "Settings" (the gear icon) in the bottom-left corner of the start menu.
3. In the settings window, click on "Personalization."
4. Click on "Start."
5. In the start settings window, scroll down to "Choose which folders appear on Start" and click on it.
6. Toggle off the switch next to the file or application you want to remove from the start menu.
Pros:
– Easy to use
– No need for third-party software
Cons:
– Can only remove files one at a time
– Cannot remove files permanently
Method 2: Remove Files from Start Menu via File Explorer
Using File Explorer to remove files from the start menu is another option. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to the start menu folder. The start menu folder is located in this directory: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs.
3. Find the file or application you want to remove.
4. Right-click on the file or application and select "Delete."
Pros:
– No need for third-party software
– Can select and remove multiple files at once
Cons:
– Cannot remove files permanently
– The process can be time-consuming
Method 3: Remove Files from Start Menu via Third-Party Software
If you want a more efficient way to remove files from the start menu, you can use third-party software. Here are the steps to follow using CCleaner:
1. Download and install CCleaner.
2. Open CCleaner.
3. Click on "Tools" on the left-hand side of the CCleaner window.
4. Click on "Start" on the right-hand side of the window.
5. Select the file or application you want to remove from the start menu.
6. Click on "Delete."
Pros:
– Can permanently remove files
– Quick and easy to use
Cons:
– Requires downloading third-party software
– Some software may charge a fee
What to Do If You Can’t Remove Files from Start Menu Windows 10
If you are unable to remove files from the start menu using the above methods, here are some troubleshooting tips:
– Restart your computer and try again.
– Make sure you have the necessary permissions to remove files from the start menu.
– If you are using third-party software, ensure that it is up-to-date and compatible with Windows 10.
Bonus Tip
To keep your start menu organized and efficient, consider grouping similar files and applications together. You can do this easily by creating folders within the start menu.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I remove all files and applications from the start menu?
A: Yes, you can remove all files and applications from the start menu using the methods described above.
Q2: Can I permanently remove files from the start menu?
A: Yes, you can permanently remove files from the start menu using certain third-party software, such as CCleaner.
Q3: Will removing files from the start menu improve my computer’s performance?
A: Removing unnecessary files and applications can free up space and improve the organization of your start menu. This can help improve your computer’s overall performance.
Q4: How do I add files and applications to the start menu?
A: To add files or applications to the start menu, simply right-click on the file or application and select "Pin to Start."
Q5: Can I customize the appearance of my start menu?
A: Yes, you can customize the appearance of your start menu by adjusting the size, color, and style of the tiles.
Final Thoughts
Removing unnecessary files and applications from the start menu on Windows 10 can improve its overall performance and make it easier to find what you need. There are several methods you can use to remove files from the start menu, including through settings, File Explorer, and third-party software. If you are unable to remove files from the start menu, try troubleshooting or seek the help of a professional.