Are you tired of fumbling around for your favorite apps amidst the chaos of your Windows 11 Start menu? Fear not, fellow Windows enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving deep into the art of customizing and expanding the Start menu to create a personal hub that fits your unique workflow like a glove.
With a little creativity and the right tools, your Windows 11 experience can be as unique as you are. Dive in, explore the options, and take control of your Start menu!
Now it’s your turn—what customization have you made to your Start menu? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
Source: PCWorld Make Windows 11 better: How to customize and expand the Start menu
Understanding the Start Menu: A Quick Overview
Windows 11 brought a fresh design to the Start menu, featuring a centered layout and new functionalities. Although these changes have made the Start menu more visually appealing, they’ve also hidden some of the essential features you might frequently access. Whether you're a casual user or a power user, understanding how to tailor this menu can significantly enhance your computing experience.Accessing the Customization Options
To begin your customization journey, you’ll want to access the Start menu settings. Head to Settings > Personalization > Start, or simply right-click on the Start button and select Start settings. This treasure trove is where the magic happens, allowing you to tweak the menu to your liking.Key Customization Features
- Control Visibility of Recommendations:
- Windows 11 tends to throw unsolicited tips and recommendations your way, which can clutter your Start menu. Disable the option for “Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more” to declutter your experience.
- Manage Installed Apps:
- You can personalize which apps appear on your Start menu by right-clicking on any app and choosing Remove from Start. Don’t worry, the app isn’t gone for good; it remains easily accessible through the All apps list.
- Folders for Easy Access:
- At the bottom of the Start settings, you can create folders for quick access items. Consider pinning important features like File Explorer, Settings, or even your Documents for a more efficient workflow.
Taskbar Tweaks: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Your Start menu isn't alone in customization; the taskbar offers a playground of settings that significantly impacts your Start experience:- Taskbar Alignment: For those who miss the classic left-aligned Start menu, you can switch back through Taskbar settings > Taskbar alignment. Simply select Left to revert to the traditional layout.
- Hide Unwanted Features: If you never use widgets or the search feature, free up space by hiding them under Taskbar items.
Advanced Customization Tools
If the built-in options aren't enough and you're feeling adventurous, there are third-party tools that can enhance your Start menu experience:- StartAllBack:
- This tool allows you to reclaim the Windows 7-style Start menu, placing it back to the left. It is available for a small price after a 100-day free trial.
- Start11:
- Designed for those who crave more customization options, Start11 offers similar functionality with additional settings for $10 after a 30-day trial.
- Classic Shell:
- While this tool is known for its classic interface, users should note that it is not officially supported for Windows 11 and comes with risks. Use at your own peril!
Tips for Optimizing the Start Menu
- End Task Shortcut:
- If an application is misbehaving, you can easily end its task directly from the Start menu without venturing into the Task Manager. Under Settings > System > For developers, enable the End Task feature for quick fixes.
- Jump Lists:
- Utilize the jump lists by right-clicking any app icon on the taskbar or Start menu for fast access to recent files or settings, adding another layer of convenience.
Wrapping It Up: Your Start Menu, Your Rules
Customizing the Start menu in Windows 11 isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating a tailored workspace that enhances productivity. Adjusting settings, utilizing tools, and understanding the layout can turn an average computing experience into a streamlined adventure. So why settle for the default when you can have a Start menu that works for you?With a little creativity and the right tools, your Windows 11 experience can be as unique as you are. Dive in, explore the options, and take control of your Start menu!
Now it’s your turn—what customization have you made to your Start menu? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
Source: PCWorld Make Windows 11 better: How to customize and expand the Start menu