How to Make Windows 11 Always Show More Options: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Windows 11 always show more options can be done by tweaking the system settings through the Registry Editor. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure that you can access more options by default, making it easier to navigate and manage your files and folders.

How to Make Windows 11 Always Show More Options

Following these steps will ensure that Windows 11 always displays the classic context menu options without needing to click on "Show more options."

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to make changes to the system registry. Be cautious when using it, as incorrect changes can affect system stability.

Step 2: Navigate to the Context Menu Path

Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesCLSID.

You can expand folders on the left side to navigate to this path. This location is where the context menu settings are stored.

Step 3: Create a New Key

Right-click CLSID, select New > Key, and name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.

Creating this key tells the system to reference a new set of instructions for the context menu.

Step 4: Add a New Sub-Key

Right-click the new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}, select New > Key, and name it InprocServer32.

The InprocServer32 sub-key will hold the default value needed to change the context menu behavior.

Step 5: Modify the Default Value

Double-click Default in the right pane, and set its value to an empty string.

Deleting any existing value and leaving it empty will activate your new context menu settings.

After completing these steps, restart your computer. Once it’s back on, you should see the classic context menu options instantly without needing to click "Show more options."

Tips for Making Windows 11 Always Show More Options

  • Create a Backup: Before making changes in the Registry Editor, back up your current registry settings to prevent any mishaps.
  • Use an Administrator Account: Ensure you have administrative privileges to make changes in the Registry Editor.
  • Be Precise: Typing errors in the registry path or key names can lead to complications. Double-check your entries.
  • Follow Up: If the changes don’t take effect immediately, restart your computer to apply the new settings.
  • Revert Changes: If you want to undo the changes, simply delete the {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} key and restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to change the registry?

Yes, but with caution. Always back up the registry before making any changes to prevent accidental system issues.

What if I can’t find the key path?

Double-check the path for accuracy. Ensure every folder is correctly expanded and spelled.

Do I need to restart my computer?

Yes, restarting your computer helps apply the changes made in the registry.

Can I undo these changes?

Yes, delete the new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} and restart your computer to revert to default settings.

Will this affect system performance?

No, altering the context menu settings will not impact your system’s performance.

Summary

  1. Open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesCLSID.
  3. Create a new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.
  4. Add a new sub-key InprocServer32.
  5. Modify the default value to an empty string.

Conclusion

Making Windows 11 always show more options can seem daunting, but with careful steps, it’s quite straightforward. You’ll find that accessing all the context menu options without the extra click can save you time and make your workflow smoother. Remember to tread carefully when using the Registry Editor and always back up your settings. This small tweak can make a big difference in how you use your computer daily. Happy computing! If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring more tips and tricks to optimize your Windows 11 experience.

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