Changing Windows 11 Taskbar to Windows 10
Switching your taskbar from the Windows 11 style to the classic Windows 10 look is a straightforward process. You’ll be tweaking some settings and changing some features, but it won’t take long. After reading this quick overview, you’ll be ready to jump into the detailed steps below.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Changing Windows 11 Taskbar to Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to change your Windows 11 taskbar to look more like the Windows 10 taskbar. This involves altering some settings in the system and the registry editor. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open the Settings App
First, open the Settings app by pressing Win + I or by searching for "Settings" in the Start menu.
This step is essential because the Settings app is where you will find the options to modify the taskbar appearance. Navigating to the correct sections is crucial to make the necessary changes.
Step 2: Go to the Personalization Section
Once in Settings, click on "Personalization."
Personalization is where you can change the look and feel of your Windows experience. This includes the taskbar, so it’s the right place to begin your customizations.
Step 3: Click on Taskbar
Under Personalization, select "Taskbar."
This will bring you to the taskbar settings. Here, you’ll find various options to adjust how the taskbar looks and behaves.
Step 4: Change Taskbar Alignment
Find the "Taskbar Alignment" option, and set it to "Left."
By default, Windows 11 centers the taskbar icons. Changing the alignment to the left will make your taskbar resemble the Windows 10 style.
Step 5: Open the Registry Editor
Press Win + R, type "regedit," and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
The Registry Editor allows you to make deeper changes to Windows that aren’t available in the Settings app. Be careful while using it, as incorrect changes can affect your system.
Step 6: Navigate to Taskbar Registry Key
Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced.
This location in the registry contains settings specific to the taskbar. You’ll be adding a new value here to change the taskbar’s functionality.
Step 7: Create a New DWORD (32-bit) Value
Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it "Start_ShowClassicMode."
This new value will help revert some of the taskbar behaviors to those in Windows 10. Naming it correctly is crucial for it to work.
Step 8: Set the Value Data
Double-click on "Start_ShowClassicMode," and set the value data to 1.
Setting this value to 1 activates the classic mode. You’ll need to restart your PC for the changes to take effect.
After you complete these steps, your taskbar will look and feel more like the Windows 10 taskbar.
Tips for Changing Windows 11 Taskbar to Windows 10
- Back Up Registry: Always back up your registry before making changes. Mistakes can cause system issues.
- Check for Updates: Sometimes updates can alter settings, so make sure your system is up to date.
- Use Third-Party Tools: There are tools like TaskbarX that can help customize your taskbar further.
- Revert Changes: If you don’t like the changes, you can always reset the values or use system restore.
- Consult Online Guides: There are plenty of online guides and forums if you get stuck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this affect my system performance?
No, these changes should not impact your system performance. You’re only altering the taskbar settings, not the core functionality of Windows.
Can I undo these changes?
Absolutely! You can revert the registry value to 0 or delete it and reset the taskbar settings in the Personalization menu.
Is it safe to use the Registry Editor?
Yes, it’s safe if you follow the steps carefully. However, always back up your registry before making any changes.
Are there any third-party tools I can use?
Yes, tools like TaskbarX can help you further customize your taskbar beyond what the native settings allow.
Do I need to restart my PC?
Yes, restarting your PC is necessary for the registry changes to take effect.
Summary
- Open the Settings App.
- Go to the Personalization Section.
- Click on Taskbar.
- Change Taskbar Alignment to Left.
- Open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to Taskbar Registry Key.
- Create a New DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Set the Value Data to 1.
Conclusion
Switching your Windows 11 taskbar to resemble the Windows 10 taskbar is a simple yet effective way to bring back some of that old familiarity. By tweaking settings and making a few registry changes, you’ll have a taskbar that feels just right.
Remember, always back up your registry before making changes. And if you’re ever unsure, there are plenty of resources available online to guide you further.
Feel free to play around with different settings to make your Windows experience uniquely yours. After all, your PC should work for you, not the other way around. Happy customizing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.