Windows' taskbar undeniably has an identity crisis. Microsoft keeps changing its design with each major version, and any idea of "muscle memory" goes out the window. While it's not possible to restore the functions of earlier taskbars 100 percent, there are some tools that get quite close to that goal, and one of them is RetroBar.
Despite all the adjustments and updates it has received in recent months, Windows 11 still uses a taskbar that fails to convince its users. While we can accept some technical advantages such as improved support on high-definition screens, its artificial limits, lack of flexibility, and changes in behavior do not put it in a good position.
So, what can we do? Previously we have explored alternatives like ExplorerPatcher, but that tool takes us back to the Windows 10 level. In contrast, the RetroBar project allows us to go much further back, restoring the taskbar from any version of Windows between 95 and Vista, without installing patches or editing system files.
How to restore the classic Windows taskbar with RetroBar
The program does not have an installer, and it works directly from a temporary folder. In its configuration section, we find a total of 18 different designs, starting from Windows 95-98, up to Windows Vista Aero. The list also includes uncommon themes like Longhorn Aero, and some darker variants of Windows XP, among which Zune Style and Embedded stand out.
RetroBar includes an option to smooth the fonts on classic taskbars, and most importantly, define its position (top, bottom, left, and right). The entire system tray works perfectly, and if necessary, we can extend RetroBar across multiple monitors. Other secondary elements are the language switching button, the 'Show desktop' button, and the menu to hide notification icons.
Finally, the RetroBar developer suggests automatically hiding the original Windows 11 taskbar, although the program can do this by itself in the latest version. As for the Start menu, RetroBar does not make any modifications, but if we combine it with OpenShell's classic mode, the final result is fabulous. Download below!
Editor's note: If you set RetroBar to start with Windows, the operating system will first load the official taskbar, and then the change will take effect.
Official site and download: Click here
How to download programs from GitHub: Click here
