Windows 11: How to Ungroup the Taskbar
If you’re using Windows 11 and want to ungroup the icons on your taskbar for better organization, it’s a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps to change your taskbar settings so each open window gets its own space. You’ll be able to easily see and switch between apps without them being stacked together.
Windows 11 How to Ungroup Taskbar
Ungrouping the taskbar in Windows 11 involves a few simple steps that change how your taskbar displays open windows. By following these steps, you’ll make it easier to manage multiple open programs.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click on the Start Menu and select the Settings icon to open the Settings app.
Once you’re in the Settings app, you can adjust a variety of system preferences, including the taskbar settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
In the Settings window, click on Personalization to go to the section where you can customize your Windows experience.
The Personalization section allows you to change wallpapers, colors, and most importantly, taskbar behaviors.
Step 3: Click on Taskbar
Within the Personalization menu, find and click on Taskbar to access taskbar-specific settings.
This area is where you can control whether taskbar icons are grouped or ungrouped.
Step 4: Open Taskbar Behaviors
Scroll down to the bottom of the Taskbar settings page and click on Taskbar behaviors.
Here, you’ll find options for customizing the taskbar’s functionality, including icon grouping.
Step 5: Change Taskbar Settings
Find the drop-down menu that says Combine taskbar buttons and change it to Never.
This setting ensures that each open window will have its own separate icon on the taskbar, making it easier to navigate between them.
After you follow these steps, your taskbar will ungroup the icons, showing each open window individually. This change will make it easier for you to switch between different programs without confusion.
Windows 11 How to Ungroup Taskbar: Tips
- Check for Updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes new updates add or modify features.
- Use Taskbar Toolbars: You can add toolbars to your taskbar for even more customization.
- Adjust Icon Size: Smaller taskbar icons can fit more open windows without cluttering the taskbar.
- Pin Frequently Used Apps: Pin apps you use often to the taskbar for quicker access.
- Explore Third-Party Software: There are third-party tools that offer additional taskbar customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to grouped icons if I don’t like the ungrouped view?
Yes, you can revert back by following the same steps and changing the Combine taskbar buttons setting to Always or When taskbar is full.
Do I need to restart my computer for the changes to take effect?
No, the changes will take effect immediately after you adjust the settings.
Will ungrouping the taskbar affect performance?
Ungrouping the taskbar should not noticeably affect your computer’s performance.
Can I customize individual icons on the taskbar?
While you can pin and rearrange icons, individual customization options for icons are limited.
What if I don’t see the Combine taskbar buttons option?
Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date, as this feature should be available in the latest version.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Navigate to Personalization
- Click on Taskbar
- Open Taskbar Behaviors
- Change Taskbar Settings
Conclusion
Ungrouping your taskbar in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to improve your workflow and keep your desktop organized. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have a taskbar that displays each open window individually, making it easier to switch between tasks. Remember, if you don’t like the changes, you can always revert back to the default settings. For those who enjoy customizing their Windows 11 experience, ungrouping the taskbar is just one of many tweaks you can make. Keep exploring the Settings menu to find other ways to personalize your desktop environment.
If you found this guide helpful, consider checking out other Windows 11 tips and tricks to further enhance your computing experience. 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.