Like windows XP and other windows versions VISTA too shows by default recently used programs on the start menu and there is a sub-menu for recently used files. Now, if are a person who is a privacy freak then you will definitely need this tip.

To remove both the items from the start menu, right click on it. Click on the properties option. This should bring up the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialogue box. In the privacy tab just uncheck both the store and display recently opened files and programs.

For Windows XP right click on the start menu. Click on the properties option. This should bring up the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialogue box. Click on the customize tab. In the subsequent Customize start menu dialogue box clear the programs list. In the advanced tab uncheck the List my most recently opened documents options. Click OK to close the window. Finally, click apply to apply the new settings and click OK to close the window.