How to Remove the 'Home' Folder from Windows 11 Navigation Pane

Understanding the Navigation Pane​

The navigation pane in File Explorer serves as a quick-access tool, allowing users to navigate their files and folders easily. The "Home" folder, which encompasses frequently accessed files, recent files, and pinned locations, is part of this navigation system. While it's designed to increase accessibility, some users prefer a cleaner view without this section.

Methods to Remove "Home" from the Navigation Pane​

Method 1: Using File Explorer Settings​

1. Open File Explorer: Start by pressing Win + E on your keyboard.
2. Access Folder Options: Click on the three dots in the toolbar at the top, and select "Options."
3. Adjust Privacy Settings:
   • Go to the Privacy section in the Folder Options dialog box.
   • Uncheck the option that says "Show recently used files in Quick access" and "Show frequently used folders in Quick access."
   • Click Apply and then OK.

This method does not specifically remove "Home" but minimizes its content display, leading to a cleaner navigation pane.

Method 2: Tweaking the Registry (Advanced)​

If you're comfortable with editing the Windows Registry, you can remove the "Home" folder entirely from the navigation pane. Note: Editing the registry can be risky; it's recommended to back up the registry beforehand.

1. Open Registry Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to the Following Key:
   

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HomeFolderMSGraph

3. Remove the Home Folder Entry:
   • Look for the key associated with the Home folder. Right-click it and select "Delete."
   • It's important to ensure that you're deleting the correct entry.
4. Restart File Explorer: Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer or the File Explorer to see the changes reflected.

Method 3: Group Policy Editor (For Pro Versions)​

If you have a Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise version, you can also utilize the Group Policy Editor:

1. Open Group Policy Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to the Following Path:
   

    User Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → File Explorer

3. Locate the Setting:
   • Find the policy named "Do not keep a history of recently opened documents" and set it to Enabled. This action minimizes the visibility of "Home."
4. Apply Changes: After making the changes, restart your system.

Conclusion​

The "Home" folder in Windows 11's File Explorer can clutter up the navigation pane, particularly for users who appreciate a more streamlined experience. Through a mix of straightforward settings changes and more complex registry modifications, users have several avenues to explore for removing or reducing the presence of this folder. Always ensure to back up your data and system settings before making any significant changes.
By understanding these functionalities, you can tailor your Windows 11 experience more closely to your preferences. Whether it's for decluttering or enhancing privacy, these tips can help you maintain a more efficient workspace.

---

These instructions should help any Windows 11 user effectively minimize or completely remove the "Home" directory from their File Explorer navigation pane, allowing for a more personalized and focused file management experience. If you require further assistance with specific steps or alternative solutions, feel free to ask!
Source: The Windows Club How to Remove Home in Explorer Navigation Pane of Windows 11