The taskbar is an essential component of the Windows operating system, providing quick access to frequently used applications and system functions. With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has introduced several exciting customization options for the taskbar, allowing users to personalize their desktop experience. In this article, we will explore various ways to customize the taskbar in Windows 11, from changing icons alignment to resizing and ungrouping icons, as well as using third-party apps to further enhance its appearance. Whether you prefer a minimalist or a more vibrant look, Windows 11 offers a range of options to make your taskbar truly your own.
Change Windows 11 Taskbar Icons Alignment
One of the first things you might want to do when customizing the taskbar in Windows 11 is to change the alignment of the icons. By default, the taskbar icons are centered, but you can easily change this to align them to the left or right side of the screen.
To change the alignment of the taskbar icons in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
- In the context menu that appears, select “Taskbar settings.”
- In the Taskbar settings window, scroll down to the “Taskbar behaviors” section.
- Under “Taskbar alignment,” click on the drop-down menu and select either “Left” or “Right” alignment.
- The taskbar icons will instantly move to the selected side.
Changing the alignment of the taskbar icons can help you optimize your workflow and make it more convenient to access your favorite applications.
Personalize Windows 11 Taskbar Using Settings App
Windows 11 provides a built-in Settings app that allows you to personalize various aspects of your system, including the taskbar. Using the Settings app, you can change the appearance, behavior, and functionality of the taskbar to suit your preferences.
To personalize the taskbar in Windows 11 using the Settings app, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, click on the “Personalization” category.
- In the left sidebar, click on “Taskbar.”
- In the Taskbar settings, you will find a plethora of customization options, such as changing the taskbar color, enabling or disabling system icons, and choosing which icons appear on the taskbar.
- Explore the different options and adjust them according to your preferences.
- As you make changes, you will see the taskbar updating in real-time, allowing you to preview the changes before applying them.
The Settings app provides a convenient and centralized way to customize the taskbar in Windows 11, allowing you to fine-tune its appearance and functionality to suit your needs.
Move the Taskbar to the Top or Side on Windows 11
By default, the taskbar in Windows 11 is positioned at the bottom of the screen. However, if you prefer a different layout or have a specific workflow that necessitates a different placement, you can easily move the taskbar to the top or side of your screen.
To move the taskbar to the top or side in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
- In the context menu that appears, hover your cursor over “Taskbar settings.”
- In the submenu that appears, select either “Top” or “Left” for the taskbar position.
- The taskbar will instantly move to the selected position.
Moving the taskbar to the top or side of the screen can provide more vertical or horizontal space for your open windows, allowing you to make the most out of your screen real estate.
Resize the Taskbar in Windows 11
Windows 11 allows you to resize the taskbar to suit your preferences and accommodate your workflow. Whether you prefer a slim and compact taskbar or a more prominent and substantial one, you can easily resize it to your desired height.
To resize the taskbar in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Position your cursor at the edge of the taskbar.
- When the cursor changes to a double-headed arrow, click and drag to resize the taskbar.
- Release the mouse button when you have achieved your desired taskbar height.
Resizing the taskbar can help you optimize your desktop space and make it more comfortable to interact with your open windows and applications.
Ungroup Windows 11 Taskbar Icons
By default, Windows 11 groups taskbar icons from the same application together, which can be helpful to keep your taskbar organized. However, if you prefer to have individual icons for each open window or application, you can ungroup the taskbar icons.
To ungroup taskbar icons in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
- In the context menu that appears, hover your cursor over “Taskbar settings.”
- In the submenu that appears, scroll down to the “Combine taskbar buttons” section.
- Click on the drop-down menu and select “Never” to disable grouping.
- The taskbar icons will now be displayed individually, regardless of the applications they belong to.
Ungrouping taskbar icons can provide a more streamlined and efficient way to navigate between open windows and applications, especially if you frequently work with multiple instances of the same application.
Customize Windows 11 Taskbar With Third-party Apps
While Windows 11 offers a range of built-in customization options for the taskbar, you can further enhance its appearance and functionality by using third-party apps. These apps provide additional features and customization options that may not be available natively in Windows 11.
Here are a few popular third-party apps that can help you customize the taskbar in Windows 11:
- TaskbarX: TaskbarX allows you to center-align the taskbar icons, add custom animations, and create a more visually appealing taskbar.
- FalconX: FalconX provides options to blur the taskbar, change its transparency, and add custom backgrounds or gradients.
- Start11: Start11 brings back the classic Start menu in Windows 11, allowing for a more familiar and customizable experience.
You can find these third-party apps and many others by searching online or visiting software download platforms. Before installing any third-party app, make sure to research and verify its credibility and compatibility with Windows 11.
Change the Appearance of the Windows 11 Taskbar
In addition to the aforementioned customization options, Windows 11 also allows you to change the appearance of the taskbar by applying different themes and accent colors. This can help you create a visually pleasing and cohesive desktop environment.
To change the appearance of the taskbar in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, click on the “Personalization” category.
- In the left sidebar, click on “Colors.”
- In the Colors settings, you can choose between light and dark modes, as well as select an accent color for your system.
- Experiment with different color combinations and themes until you find the one that suits your taste.
Changing the appearance of the taskbar can give your desktop a fresh new look and make it more visually appealing.
