Windows 11 is getting closer on the horizon, and while everyone eagerly awaits its official presentation, we now know more about the operating system thanks to the leak of one of its builds. Recently we explained how to download and install Windows 11 and during that process we discovered that there is a lot of Windows 10 in the background. That means we can customize Windows 11 with Registry hacks and modify its appearance.
All arrows point to next Thursday, June 24, the day when Microsoft will make its official presentation of Windows 11. The new operating system includes several interface changes, starting with a centered taskbar, a floating Start menu that prioritizes pinned apps, windows with rounded corners, updated icons, brand new wallpapers and more.
How to customize Windows 11
However, one of the first things many users ask is: "How do I disable all that?" Given that it is a leaked development build, no one can say for sure whether there will be more or fewer customization options in Windows 11, but if you want "more Windows 10 in Windows 11", today we offer three Registry hacks that will definitely be useful.
Editor's note: Any modification to the Registry carries some risk. These adjustments are easy to apply and undo, but if you are not comfortable with Regedit manipulation, stop here.
Move the taskbar to the left
Probably the most resisted change by the public, Windows 11 places the taskbar in the center. The operating system allows you to modify its alignment as long as it has been activated, but we can get around all those barriers easily:
- Open the registry with Regedit
- Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- Find the DWORD entry called "TaskbarAl"
- Change its value from "1" (centered) to "0" (left)
- This does not require a restart. The bar should change its alignment immediately.
Reactivate the Windows 10 Start menu
I admit that the new Windows 11 Start menu doesn't bother me, but if Microsoft plans to bombard users with recommendations, our relationship will be very short. The news is that the Windows 10 menu is still there (with all its successes and defects), and you just have to activate it:
- Open the registry with Regedit
- Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- Create a 32-bit DWORD entry called "Start_ShowClassicMode"
- Change its value from "0" (Windows 11) to "1" (Windows 10)
- Restart the computer to apply the changes
Change the size of the taskbar
Another adjustment that remains blocked by the lack of activation in the operating system. Personally, I never liked the taskbar in "giant version", and I always try to reduce its footprint, so to speak. If you want to change the size of the taskbar...
- Open the registry with Regedit
- Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- Create a 32-bit DWORD entry called "TaskbarSi"
- Choose a compatible value: "0" (small), "1" (normal), or "2" (large)
- Restart the computer to apply the changes
In summary
These Registry values will help you customize Windows 11 without difficulties, but we are aware that we are barely scratching the surface. On the one hand, several programs that modify the appearance of the operating system will need to be reevaluated or we will have to wait for new updates, and on the other hand, Microsoft could wipe out these Registry modifications with the next build. Until that happens, enjoy!
