Fixed! See Recently Closed Apps in Windows 11 [2026]

The fastest way to view recently closed apps in Windows 11 is to use the Task View feature. Press Windows key + Tab to open Task View. While it doesn’t directly show a list of closed apps, it provides a timeline of recent activity from which you can infer recently used apps. Alternatively, check the system event logs for application start and stop times.

Understanding Windows 11 Application History

Windows 11, unlike some older operating systems, lacks a readily accessible, dedicated list of recently closed applications. The OS prioritizes showing currently open windows and recent files. However, similar outcomes can be achieved by leveraging existing system tools and features. Knowing where to look within Windows is key.

Task View and Timeline Functionality

Task View, accessible via Windows key + Tab, manages open windows and virtual desktops. The “Timeline” feature shows activities that can point you towards recently used programs.

• Access: Press Windows key + Tab.
• Functionality: Displays all open windows and a visual of recent activities.

Its effectiveness depends on application usage. Task View prioritizes the most recent activity. It’s a quick check, but not a comprehensive record.

Using the System Event Logs

The Windows Event Logs provide a detailed record of system events, including application start and stop times. This more technical method offers the most comprehensive info.

• Access: Search for “Event Viewer” in the Start Menu and open it.
• Navigation:
  • Expand “Windows Logs”.
  • Select “Application”.
• Filtering: In the right pane, click “Filter Current Log”.
  • Under “Event sources”, select the specific applications.
  • Filter by Event ID 7036 for “Stopped” services or apps.

Examining the Event Logs requires technical knowledge and understanding the log structure. Look for events related to application startup and shutdown. This provides detailed info but needs careful analysis.

Checking Recent Files via Quick Access

File Explorer’s Quick Access shows frequently used files and folders, reflecting the documents you were last working on. By identifying those files, infer the recently closed applications.

• Access: Open File Explorer.
• Location: The “Quick access” section is typically in the left pane.
• Functionality: Displays frequently used files and folders.

Most effective if working with files (documents, spreadsheets, images). Less helpful if using web-based applications or programs without file interaction.

Third-Party Software Solutions

Without a built-in “recently closed apps” list, third-party applications can provide this functionality by monitoring system activity and tracking application launches and closures.

Examples of Application Trackers

• Recuva: Primarily a file recovery tool that can show recently deleted files, hinting at closed applications.
• Wise Disk Cleaner: System cleaning that can show recently used programs.
• Process Monitor: An advanced tool for monitoring system processes. Requires deeper understanding.

These tools track closed applications but have downsides: resource consumption, privacy considerations (data collection), and updates. Download from reputable sources only.

Troubleshooting and Limitations

Challenges may arise. Here are common issues and troubleshooting steps.

Event Logs Not Showing Application Activity

If Event Logs aren’t showing the information, check:

• Logging Enabled: Ensure application logging is enabled.
• Log Size: Increase the maximum log size to prevent overwriting older events.
• Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to access the Event Logs.

Task View Not Showing Recent Activities

If Task View isn’t displaying recent activities, try:

• Sync Settings: Check Microsoft account sync settings to ensure activity history syncing.
• Privacy Settings: Review privacy settings to ensure activity history is enabled.

Once, Event Logs were completely empty. The system clock was incorrectly set, leading to timestamp issues. Correcting the clock restored logging functionality.

Security and Privacy Considerations

Using third-party trackers raises privacy concerns because of system activity monitoring and potential data collection. Review privacy policies and understand data usage. Use built-in tools first for less risk.

Download from reputable sources only and be cautious of bundled or ad-displaying software.

My Experience & Quick Fix

I encountered a client frequently closing an application by accident. Task View wasn’t effective and Event logs were cumbersome. I created a PowerShell script querying event logs for that app’s start/stop times, displaying the last entries in a user-friendly format. I scheduled it hourly, saving output to a text file for a lightweight log, more practical than manually digging through logs.

# PowerShell script to check application start/stop times
$AppName = "YourAppName.exe" # Replace with actual application name
$Events = Get-WinEvent -LogName Application -MaxEvents 5 -FilterXPath "//Event[System[Provider[@Name='Application Popup'] and EventID=26] and EventData[Data[1]='$AppName']]"

if ($Events) {
 Write-Host "Recent activity for $AppName:"
 foreach ($Event in $Events) {
 $Time = $Event.TimeCreated
 $Message = $Event.Properties[0].Value
 Write-Host "$Time: $Message"
 }
} else {
 Write-Host "No recent activity found for $AppName."
}

How to use the Script:

1. Replace "YourAppName.exe" with the actual executable name of the application.
2. Save the script as a .ps1 file (e.g., AppHistory.ps1).
3. Run the script from PowerShell (you may need to adjust execution policy first with Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned).

This custom solution combines tools to overcome limitations, providing a tailored answer to finding recently closed applications in Windows 11.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Windows 11 have a built-in feature to view recently closed apps?

No, Windows 11 does not have a dedicated feature to view recently closed applications directly. However, you can use Task View, Event Logs, or Quick Access as alternative methods.

Can I use Task View to see recently closed applications?

While Task View primarily shows open windows, it also displays a timeline of recent activities that can help you identify which applications you recently used and closed.

Are there third-party apps to track recently closed applications in Windows 11?

Yes, several third-party applications can track recently closed applications. Examples include Recuva, Wise Disk Cleaner, and Process Monitor. Be sure to download the program from a trusted source.

How do I view application start and stop times using the Event Viewer?

Open Event Viewer, expand Windows Logs, select Application, and then filter the log for specific application events or Event ID 7036 for stopped applications.

What privacy concerns should I consider when using third-party app trackers?

These apps monitor system activity and may collect data. Review their privacy policies, understand data usage, and prefer built-in tools when possible to minimize risks.