Moving the taskbar in Windows 11 is a simple process that can help personalize your computer’s layout to your liking. With a few clicks, you can adjust the position of the taskbar to the left, right, top, or bottom of your screen.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Move Taskbar Windows 11
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to note that changing the position of your taskbar can make your desktop feel more customized and can even improve your workflow. Let’s get started with the steps.
Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar
Begin by right-clicking on an empty space on your taskbar. This will open a context menu with various options.
When you right-click on the taskbar, make sure you’re not clicking on any icons or open applications. You’ll know you’ve clicked the right spot when you see options like "Taskbar settings" in the menu that appears.
Step 2: Select ‘Taskbar Settings’
In the context menu that appears, look for and select the ‘Taskbar Settings’ option. This will open a new window where you can adjust various taskbar preferences.
The ‘Taskbar Settings’ window is where all the magic happens. You’ll find a range of options here, but for now, we’re focused on moving the taskbar.
Step 3: Choose Taskbar Behaviors
Scroll down in the ‘Taskbar Settings’ window until you find the ‘Taskbar behaviors’ section. Click on it to expand and view more options.
The ‘Taskbar behaviors’ section contains a variety of settings, such as automatically hiding the taskbar or showing badges on taskbar apps. But for our purposes, we’re looking for the taskbar alignment option.
Step 4: Change Taskbar Alignment
Within the ‘Taskbar behaviors’ section, you’ll find an option labeled ‘Taskbar alignment.’ Click the dropdown menu next to it and choose your desired position: left, top, right, or bottom.
After you’ve selected a new alignment, the taskbar will move to that position on your screen immediately. You can click around and try different alignments to see which one you prefer.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your taskbar will be in the new position you selected. You can always go back and change it again if you decide you don’t like the new layout or simply want to switch things up.
Tips for Moving Taskbar Windows 11
- Make sure to unlock the taskbar first if you’re unable to move it. You can do this by right-clicking on the taskbar and unchecking ‘Lock the taskbar.’
- Consider the orientation of your monitor when choosing the taskbar position. If you have a vertical monitor, placing the taskbar on the sides might be more efficient.
- If you’re using multiple monitors, you can choose to show the taskbar on all displays or just the main one.
- Keep in mind that moving the taskbar might take some getting used to, especially if you’ve had it in the same spot for a long time.
- Experiment with different taskbar sizes by adjusting its height or width after you’ve moved it. This can be done by clicking and dragging the taskbar’s edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move the taskbar to the side in Windows 11?
Yes, you can move the taskbar to the left or right side of your screen by changing the taskbar alignment in the ‘Taskbar behaviors’ section of the taskbar settings.
What if the ‘Taskbar alignment’ option is grayed out?
If the ‘Taskbar alignment’ option is grayed out, it might be because your taskbar is locked. Try unlocking the taskbar by right-clicking on it and unchecking ‘Lock the taskbar.’
Will moving the taskbar affect my open applications?
No, moving the taskbar will not affect any open applications. However, it may change the way you access and view them on your screen.
Can I move the taskbar to the top of the screen?
Yes, you can move the taskbar to the top of your screen by selecting ‘Top’ from the ‘Taskbar alignment’ dropdown menu in the taskbar settings.
Is it possible to move the taskbar back to the bottom?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps and select ‘Bottom’ from the ‘Taskbar alignment’ dropdown menu to return the taskbar to its original position.
Summary
- Right-click on the Taskbar.
- Select ‘Taskbar Settings.’
- Choose Taskbar Behaviors.
- Change Taskbar Alignment.
Conclusion
Customizing your Windows 11 taskbar by moving it to a different position can be a fun and easy way to personalize your computer’s interface. Whether you prefer it at the top for a more traditional look or on the sides for a sleek, modern aesthetic, the choice is yours. The steps outlined above should have helped you accomplish this task with ease.
Remember, the taskbar is an essential tool for navigating your PC, so play around with its location until you find the setup that works best for you. If you ever feel like changing things up or need to troubleshoot, these steps will always be here to guide you through the process. Happy computing!
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.