Windows 11 is gaining huge popularity amongst users due to its iconic interface and responsive performance. It has come up with several new features, including Start Menu positioned at the center instead of on the left. It appears that Microsoft has been experimenting with this feature and has received mixed opinions from consumers on which position is more effective for the Start Menu. Some users prefer to keep it on their left for easy navigation, while others like the change in position. Hence, in this blog post, we will walk you through the steps on how to change the Start Menu position on Windows 11.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Changing Position of Start Menu:
Though it may appear easy to change the Start Menu position on Windows 11, it can be quite challenging for some users to figure out how to do so. This is because Windows 11 is still a new version with a lot of hidden features and settings. Additionally, some users may face difficulties in resolving any errors that may arise while changing the Start Menu position. Therefore, we have come up with some tips and tricks that you should keep in mind before attempting to change the Start Menu position.
Things You Should Prepare for:
Before initiating the process of changing the Start Menu position, you need to prepare some things. You must ensure that:
– Your computer is running on Windows 11. If not, you must update the operating system.
– You have administrative access to your computer or have your administrator credentials.
– You have a stable internet connection to locate the settings you need to change.
Once you have ticked off these requirements, we can proceed to the section on how to change the Start Menu position on Windows 11.
Method 1: Using Windows Settings
This is the easiest method to change the Start Menu position on Windows 11. Here are the steps:
1. Click on the Start Menu icon located on the taskbar.
2. Click on the Settings icon located on the left-hand side of the Start Menu.
3. In the settings window, click on Personalization.
4. In this section, you will see a section labeled Taskbar. Click on the tab.
5. You will notice an option “Taskbar Behaviors.” Click on the dropdown to change it from the default Center to Left.
6. Once you have selected the option, you will notice the Start Menu position shift to the left-hand side.
Pros:
– This method is relatively straightforward and does not require in-depth computer knowledge.
– You can switch between Start Menu positions as per your preferences.
Cons:
– None.
Method 2: Using Registry Editor
This method requires a bit more technical knowledge and is suitable for users who are more comfortable with advanced features.
1. Press the “Windows” key together with the “R” key.
2. Type “regedit” and press Enter.
3. This will launch the Registry Editor. Here, you need to navigate to the following folder: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
4. Once you have located it, right-click on Advanced to create a new DWORD value.
5. Rename it to “Taskbar-Layout_ShowStartOnLeftTaskbar.”
6. Change the value data to “1” and click OK.
7. After applying these changes, you will notice the Start Menu move to the left side of the taskbar.
Pros:
– Users can customize the Start Menu position according to their preference.
– This method is supported on different operating systems, apart from Windows 11.
Cons:
– Users with minimal technical knowledge may find it challenging to understand and apply the steps.
– Any mistake while changing the registry can lead to serious consequences. We advise you to be cautious while accessing the registry editor.
Method 3: Using the PowerShell Utility
This is another method to change the position of the Start Menu on Windows 11. It is useful for developers or users who prefer manual configuration.
1. Search for “Windows PowerShell” by clicking on the start menu and typing in the Search Box.
2. Right-click on the Windows PowerShell icon and select “Run as Administrator.”
3. Copy the following command: “$Layout = ‘{“$ $($RegistryPath –replace “HKEY_”, “registry::HKEY_”)}’: ‘$($ValueName)’=hex:$($Value.ToString().Replace(‘ ‘,”))’;”
4. Run the following command to move the Start Menu to the Left: “$RegistryPath = ‘HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Taskband’;$ValueName = ‘{C2FBB630-2971-11D1-A18C-00C04FD75D13}’;$Value = 0x1; $Layout = ‘{“$ $($RegistryPath –replace “HKEY_”, “registry::HKEY_”)}’: ‘$($ValueName)’=hex:$($Value.ToString().Replace(‘ ‘,”))’;”
5. Once you have executed the command, the Start Menu will immediately shift to the left.
Pros:
– This is a flexible method to move the Start Menu from center to left position.
– Users with advanced technical knowledge can explore and make changes according to their requirements.
Cons:
– The steps of this method may be challenging for those with limited technical knowledge.
– Any mistake in executing the command may result in serious consequences.
Why Can’t I Put the Start Menu Anywhere I Want?
There are a few reasons why you are unable to move the Start Menu anywhere you like. These include:
1. The Start Menu is Locked: Check if the Start Menu position lock is enabled. You can unlock it by following the steps mentioned above.
2. The Registry Editor is Blocked: If the Registry Editor is blocked on your computer, you may have to get administrative access to modify it.
3. Incompatible Theme or Visual Styles: Ensure that your Windows 11 theme and visual styles are compatible with Start Menu positions.
Fixes:
To fix these issues, you need to:
1. Unlock Start Menu position lock: You can do this by accessing the taskbar section from the settings.
2. Get Administrative Access: Users with limited administrative access should seek their organization or administrator’s help to unblock the Registry Editor.
3. Check Compatibility: Check if your computer settings are in line with Windows 11 Start Menu Position features, including themes, and screen resolutions.
Additional Tips:
Some additional tips that may help you while changing the position of the Start Menu on Windows 11 are:
1. Always take a backup of the registry before making any changes so that you can restore your system if anything goes wrong.
2. Always run the Registry Editor or any terminal utility as Administrator to make changes.
3. Restart your computer after making changes to allow them to take effect.
5 FAQs:
Q1: Can I return the Start Menu to its original position?
A1: Yes. You can change the Start Menu position by following the above methods by selecting the default Center option.
Q2: Will the Start Menu be movable anywhere after unlocking the Start Menu position lock?
A2: Yes. Once the Start Menu position lock is unlocked, you can move the Start Menu anywhere on the taskbar.
Q3: Can I use these methods on Windows 10?
A3: Yes. These methods are applicable on Windows 8, 8.1 and Windows 10.
Q4: Do these methods void any warranties on my device?
A4: No. These methods are safe and do not void any warranties on your device.
Q5: Can I use any of these methods on Windows Server 2019?
A5: Yes. You can use the PowerShell utility to change the position of the Start Menu on Windows Server.
In Conclusion:
We have discussed three possible methods to move the Start Menu to the left on Windows 11. Always keep in mind that you must follow each step carefully to avoid any errors. Additionally, it is always recommended to back up your registry before modifying it. We hope that this blog post has provided you with useful information and has helped you configure your Start Menu to your preference.
