In general terms, the system tray helps us control different parameters of background applications and the operating system, as well as informing basic details like the date and time. However, when it comes to customizing its functions, users often encounter several limitations. The open source app TrayDir allows us to open programs and folders from the system tray, modify the position of each item, and assign advanced options such as running with elevated privileges.
A common problem with Microsoft's software strategy is its lack of ability to find a proper middle ground: either its elements remain unchanged for years, or it starts everything from scratch and seeks to begin from zero, breaking multiple layers of compatibility in the process. The taskbar in Windows 11 is a striking example of this. The loss of features is without a doubt a regression compared to Windows 10, while other aspects are virtually ignored, such as the system tray.
What do we propose today? A bit of customization, with the possibility of opening programs and folders from the system tray. This may not seem very useful at first, but every user is a universe, and if the idea interests you, all you have to do is download an open source application called TrayDir, which recently reached version 3.2.0.
How to open programs and folders from the system tray with TrayDir
In essence, the idea is to right-click on the TrayDir icon to open a sort of mini start menu filled with custom entries. There you can configure shortcuts for all kinds of programs and folders, add virtual folders aimed at more precise organization, and place separators.
TrayDir allows us to create multiple instances in the system tray, thus forming different levels of customization. For example, in one instance you can assign work programs or documents you frequently edit, and in another add all installed games. Each instance has its own advanced parameters, such as the change of icon (ideal for distinguishing instances from each other), and the order of execution with elevated privileges.
The Plugins section is nothing more than a method to run programs with secondary modifiers. The official documentation uses as an example the private mode of the old Internet Explorer, but the options are much more numerous.
TrayDir is compatible with Windows 10, but it can be installed and used on Windows 11 without issues with the help of Explorer Patcher, which reverts and restores multiple aspects of the taskbar (the program was not evaluated on stock Windows 11). Personally, the only thing I would like to see in TrayDir is a portable edition, but it's not something critical. Give it a try!
Official site and download: Click here
