Hiding the taskbar on a second monitor in Windows 11 involves a few straightforward steps. By tweaking your Taskbar settings, you can make the taskbar disappear on your secondary display while keeping it on your primary monitor. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, making it easy for you to tidy up your secondary screen.
How to Hide Taskbar on Second Monitor Windows 11
This guide will help you remove the taskbar from your second monitor, allowing you to have a clutter-free secondary display while maintaining full functionality on your primary monitor.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Win + I to open the Windows Settings.
Navigating to the Settings menu is the first step to access the Taskbar options. This shortcut is essential for quickly bringing up the main configuration panel on your Windows 11 system.
Step 2: Go to Personalization
In the Settings window, click on "Personalization."
The Personalization tab is where you can find all the options related to themes, backgrounds, and taskbar settings. It’s the hub for customizing your Windows experience.
Step 3: Click on Taskbar
Within Personalization, select "Taskbar."
Once you’re in the Personalization menu, the Taskbar section will allow you to modify the behavior and appearance of the taskbar on your monitors.
Step 4: Scroll Down to Taskbar Behaviors
In the Taskbar settings, scroll down and click on "Taskbar behaviors."
This section includes various settings that dictate how the taskbar operates, such as its visibility, alignment, and multiple display options.
Step 5: Uncheck "Show my taskbar on all displays"
Look for the option that says "Show my taskbar on all displays" and uncheck the box next to it.
By unchecking this option, you instruct Windows to only display the taskbar on your primary monitor, effectively hiding it on your secondary screen.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the taskbar will no longer appear on your second monitor. Your secondary screen will look cleaner, giving you more space for your applications and tasks.
Tips for Hiding Taskbar on Second Monitor Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts like Win + I to quickly access settings.
- Keep Settings Updated: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date to avoid any bugs that might interfere with taskbar settings.
- Switch Primary Monitor: If you want to switch which monitor has the taskbar, you can change your primary display in display settings.
- Utilize Focus Assist: Enable Focus Assist to minimize distractions while working on your primary monitor.
- Taskbar Customization: Explore other taskbar customizations like auto-hide and taskbar alignment to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show the taskbar on my second monitor again?
To show the taskbar on your second monitor again, go back to Taskbar behaviors in Settings and check the box next to "Show my taskbar on all displays."
Can I hide the taskbar only on my primary monitor?
No, Windows 11 does not currently support hiding the taskbar only on the primary monitor while keeping it on the secondary display.
Will my pinned apps remain on the taskbar once I hide it?
Yes, your pinned apps and any open applications will remain on the taskbar. They will reappear when you unhide the taskbar.
Does hiding the taskbar affect performance?
Hiding the taskbar on your second monitor has no significant impact on your computer’s performance. It’s purely a visual preference.
Can I still access the taskbar on my second monitor?
No, once the taskbar is hidden on the second monitor, it won’t be accessible unless you revert the settings.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Personalization.
- Click on Taskbar.
- Scroll Down to Taskbar Behaviors.
- Uncheck "Show my taskbar on all displays."
Conclusion
Hiding the taskbar on your second monitor in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to streamline your workspace. By following the outlined steps, you can keep your secondary monitor free of clutter, making it ideal for presentations, extended canvases, or dedicated workspaces. This small adjustment can significantly enhance your multitasking capabilities, allowing you to focus more on your tasks without unnecessary distractions.
Remember, these settings can always be reverted if you decide later that you miss having the taskbar on both screens. Windows 11 offers plenty of customization options, so feel free to explore further and make your desktop experience truly your own. For more tips and tricks on getting the most out of Windows 11, be sure to check out other articles and guides. Happy computing!
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.