OneDrive File Issues

How to Clear or Hide the OneDrive Quick Access List

Tauseeq Magsi Oct 26, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to remove or hide recently opened or followed shared folders from the OneDrive Quick Access list to protect confidential information during screen sharing.

How to Clear or Hide the OneDrive Quick Access List

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The user needs to prevent sensitive client folders from appearing in the Quick Access list while sharing their screen during online meetings.
Observed behavior: OneDrive Quick Access automatically displays recently opened or followed sites and libraries, and lacks an obvious setting to clear or hide these specific links.

Before you start

Before proceeding, note that Microsoft currently does not offer a direct feature to disable or clear individual links in the Quick Access list without deleting the associated sites.

Solution 1Recommended

Rename Folders as a Temporary Workaround

Since you cannot remove Quick Access links directly, renaming sensitive folders can help mask confidential client information during screen sharing sessions.

The Quick Access list automatically populates with sites or libraries that were recently opened or followed. While the links themselves cannot be removed unless the underlying site is deleted, you can obscure the data by changing the folder names.

Locate the sensitive folder

Navigate to the SharePoint site or shared library where the confidential folder is stored.

Rename the folder

Right-click the folder, select 'Rename', and give it a generic name that does not reveal any confidential client information.

Rename Folders as a Temporary Workaround

Limitation: This workaround does not remove the link from the Quick Access list, but it effectively hides the sensitive nature of the folder from viewers.

Solution 2

Submit a Feature Request to Microsoft

If you require a permanent and official way to clear or hide these links, you can submit feedback directly to Microsoft's development team.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Protect Your Privacy with WPS Office

If you are concerned about file privacy and uncontrolled recent file lists in your cloud storage, consider using WPS Office. It provides a highly customizable interface where managing your recent files is straightforward, ensuring your confidential information remains hidden during screen sharing.

1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and follow the installation wizard.
2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Microsoft Office files with perfect formatting retention.
3. Manage Recent Files: Navigate to the Home screen, right-click any recent file, and select 'Remove from list' to easily manage your privacy.

Easily clear your recent files history to maintain privacy during presentations or screen sharing.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.Lightweight software with a familiar user interface, making migration seamless and quick.Free to use with powerful built-in local and cloud document management features.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I completely disable the Quick Access list in OneDrive?

No, Microsoft currently does not provide an option to completely disable or hide the Quick Access list in OneDrive. It is designed to automatically populate with recently opened or followed sites.

Will deleting a SharePoint site remove it from the OneDrive Quick Access list?

Yes, if the related SharePoint site or library is completely deleted, the corresponding link will eventually disappear from your Quick Access list.

How else can I protect confidential information during screen sharing?

Instead of sharing your entire screen, use the 'Share a window' or 'Share an application' feature in your meeting software (like Teams or Zoom). This ensures participants only see the specific document you are presenting, rather than your OneDrive interface.

Document & File Issues