You can switch the language Windows 11 uses for menus, Settings, and File Explorer at any time. Windows downloads a language pack, then asks you to sign out so the change can apply. Keyboard layouts and app languages can be set separately.
Quick Answer
Open Settings, Time and language, Language and region, click Add a language, install the language with Language pack selected, choose it under Windows display language, and sign out.
How to Change the Windows Display Language
- Open Settings with Windows+I and select Time and language, then Language and region.
- Click Add a language, search for the language, and click Next.
- Make sure Language pack and Set as my Windows display language are checked, then click Install.
- Wait for the download, then choose the language under Windows display language if it is not already selected.
- Sign out and back in to see Windows in the new language.
Language Settings Explained
| Setting | Controls |
|---|---|
| Windows display language | Menus, Settings, and File Explorer |
| Preferred languages | The order apps use to pick a language |
| Keyboard layouts | What your keys type |
| Regional format | Dates, times, and currency |
| Country or region | Store content and some services |
Troubleshooting
- The language is not in the display list: some editions, such as Single Language editions, allow only one display language.
- Parts of Windows stay in the old language: sign out fully, or change the welcome screen language under Administrative language settings.
- On Windows 10, see how to change the language in Windows 10.
- To type special characters without switching languages, read how to type umlauts on Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing the language delete my files?
No. Only the interface language changes.
Can I switch back?
Yes. Choose the previous language under Windows display language and sign out again.
Do I need an internet connection?
Yes, to download a new language pack.
Summary
- Open Language and region settings.
- Add and install the language pack.
- Select it as the display language.
- Sign out and back in.
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.