Moving the Start Menu in Windows 11 is a piece of cake once you get the hang of it. It’s all about personal preference, and Microsoft has made it quite simple to shift the Start Menu to your liking. Whether you prefer it centered like the MacOS Dock or want it back to the left side like in Windows 10, you’ve got the power to make it happen.
Step by Step Tutorial to Move Start Menu Windows 11
When you first lay eyes on Windows 11, you’ll notice the Start Menu sits smack dab in the middle of the taskbar, which is a big change from previous versions. But don’t sweat it; the steps below will help you move it to where you want it.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Open the Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard.
The Windows Settings is where all the magic happens. It’s the central hub for all your customization needs in Windows 11.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Click on ‘Personalization’ from the sidebar in the Settings window.
Personalization is where you can get creative with your Windows experience, changing everything from the background to the colors and, of course, the Start Menu’s position.
Step 3: Select Taskbar
Once in Personalization, find and select ‘Taskbar’ to access Taskbar settings.
The Taskbar section is specifically designed for tweaking that horizontal bar at the bottom of your screen, where the Start Menu lives.
Step 4: Change Taskbar Alignment
In the Taskbar settings, look for ‘Taskbar behaviors’ and find ‘Taskbar alignment’. Click on the dropdown menu and choose ‘Left’.
By choosing ‘Left’, you’re telling Windows to move the Start Menu back to the familiar bottom-left corner, just like in the good ol’ days of Windows 10.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll notice the Start Menu promptly scoot over to the left side of the taskbar. It’s instant, no need to restart or log out. Just like that, you’re back in familiar territory.
Tips for Moving Start Menu Windows 11
- Embrace the change! While it may feel odd at first, the centered Start Menu is designed to be more ergonomic.
- Play around with Taskbar size and other settings in the Taskbar behaviors section to further customize your experience.
- If you’re not feeling the Start Menu on the left, it’s just as easy to move it back to the center—just follow the same steps and select ‘Center’.
- Keep in mind that some third-party software may affect how the Taskbar and Start Menu behave, so if you’re experiencing issues, check those first.
- The Taskbar and Start Menu settings also allow you to hide the Taskbar when it’s not in use, giving you a cleaner and more distraction-free workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Start Menu be moved to the top or sides of the screen?
No, Windows 11 only allows the Start Menu to be aligned to the center or left on the Taskbar, which is stuck to the bottom of the screen.
Will moving the Start Menu affect other Taskbar icons?
No, it will only change the position of the Start Menu and Start button. Other Taskbar icons will adjust their positions accordingly.
Can I move the Start Menu if I’m using multiple monitors?
Yes, each monitor’s Taskbar can be customized separately, so you can have the Start Menu on the left on one screen and centered on another.
What if the ‘Taskbar alignment’ option is greyed out?
If the option is greyed out, it could be due to group policies set by an organization or limitations of using a Windows 11 version that does not support this feature.
Is it possible to move the Start Menu to the right of the Taskbar?
No, there is no native option in Windows 11 to move the Start Menu to the right side of the Taskbar.
Summary
- Open Windows Settings with Windows + I.
- Click on ‘Personalization’.
- Select ‘Taskbar’.
- Change ‘Taskbar alignment’ to ‘Left’.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks—the ins and outs of moving the Start Menu in Windows 11. It’s clear that Microsoft is aiming for a more streamlined and user-friendly interface, and the ability to customize the Start Menu position is just one aspect of this. Whether you’re a stickler for tradition or open to a new look, Windows 11 gives you the flexibility to set up your desktop just the way you like it. Remember to play around with other Taskbar settings to really make the space your own. And don’t be afraid to switch it up now and then—who knows, you might just find a new layout that works even better for your workflow. Happy customizing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.