Windows 11: How to Move Taskbar to Left in Just a Few Steps

Moving the taskbar in Windows 11 to the left side of the screen is a simple process. Just a few clicks and you’ll have it positioned just the way you like it. Let’s get started!

Step by Step Tutorial: Moving the Taskbar in Windows 11

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re about to do. Moving the taskbar to the left of your screen can help you maximize your vertical screen real estate, and for some, it may be more intuitive based on their workflow.

Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar

Right-click on an empty space on your taskbar.

This will open up a context menu that gives you various options for customizing the taskbar.

Step 2: Click on Taskbar Settings

Select "Taskbar settings" from the menu.

This will open the settings window where you can adjust the taskbar’s appearance and behavior.

Step 3: Find the Taskbar Behaviors Section

Scroll down to the "Taskbar behaviors" section.

This section contains options for changing the alignment and hiding the taskbar.

Step 4: Click on the Taskbar Alignment Dropdown Menu

Click on the dropdown menu next to "Taskbar alignment."

A dropdown menu will appear with different alignment options.

Step 5: Select "Left"

Choose "Left" from the dropdown menu.

This action will move your taskbar from its default bottom position to the left side of your screen.

After completing these steps, your taskbar will now be aligned to the left side of your screen. It will remain there until you decide to move it again using the same steps.

Tips for Moving the Taskbar in Windows 11

• Remember that you can always move the taskbar back to the bottom or to the right side by following the same steps.
• If you’re using multiple monitors, you can choose to move the taskbar to the left on all displays or just the primary one.
• Consider the size of your screen when positioning the taskbar; some users find that a left-aligned taskbar is more efficient on widescreen monitors.
• If you want more space for your icons, you can also resize the taskbar by clicking and dragging its edge.
• Don’t forget to lock the taskbar after moving it to prevent it from being accidentally repositioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move the taskbar to the top of the screen?

Yes, you can also move the taskbar to the top of the screen by choosing "Top" in the Taskbar alignment dropdown menu.

Will my open windows adjust to the new taskbar position?

Yes, open windows will automatically adjust to the new taskbar position, so you don’t have to worry about rearranging them manually.

Can I move the taskbar to the left on a tablet with Windows 11?

Yes, the process is the same for tablets running Windows 11.

What if the taskbar doesn’t move after changing the settings?

Make sure you’ve locked the taskbar. If it’s still not moving, try restarting your computer.

Is it possible to center the taskbar icons when it’s on the left?

No, currently, there’s no built-in option to center taskbar icons when the taskbar is aligned to the left or right.

Summary

1. Right-click on the Taskbar.
2. Click on Taskbar Settings.
3. Find the Taskbar Behaviors Section.
4. Click on the Taskbar Alignment Dropdown Menu.
5. Select "Left".

Conclusion

Windows 11 brings a fresh look and some new features to the table, including the ability to move your taskbar to the left. It’s a simple tweak that can make a big difference in how you interact with your computer. Whether you’re looking to change up your workflow, improve accessibility, or you just prefer the aesthetic, moving the taskbar to the left side is an easy way to customize your experience. This change, along with other personalization options in Windows 11, shows how Microsoft is giving users more control over their operating system environment. Remember, the key to getting the most out of your Windows 11 experience is to explore and experiment with the settings to find what works best for you. So why not give it a try and see how you like the taskbar on the left side?