Windows users have long prided themselves on customizability, and for many, the trusty taskbar has always felt like an old friend we could set up just the way we liked. But when Microsoft rolled out Windows 11, it firmly yanked that friend’s chair from under us. Gone was the beloved ability to position the taskbar vertically on the left or right. The only remaining option? A bottom-anchored taskbar that left many widescreen and ultrawide monitor users shaking their fists at the sky like their favorite dramatic TV protagonist.
But worry not, Windows warriors; there’s light at the end of this bottom-pinned tunnel. If vertical screen real estate is your golden ticket, let's dive into the details of how you can bring the vertical taskbar back to life—no black-magic hacks or shady apps required.
It’s worth noting that the ability to move your taskbar around the desktop had its heyday in earlier Windows versions like 7, 8, and 10. A vertical taskbar appealed specifically to multitaskers and tech enthusiasts craving efficient real estate usage on modern widescreens. But alas, Microsoft seems unshaken by the avalanche of feedback asking for this feature’s return.
With the recently launched Start11 v2.5 beta, Stardock made good on users’ demands for a more flexible taskbar configuration. It allows you to place the taskbar on the left or right edge of your screen, just like in the glory days of Windows 7-10. Better yet, you don’t need to feel like you’re rolling the dice by downloading random software; Stardock has been a trusted player in this space for years.
To its credit, Start11 doesn’t dig deep into your system’s registry or hack Windows code. The customizations sit atop what Windows already provides, similar to how any external app might interface with the operating system’s visual layers.
Still, as with all third-party apps, always download from the official website to mitigate risks.
That being said, Microsoft can’t ignore the passionate subset of its userbase who miss being able to tailor their experience, and perhaps third-party tools like Start11 will encourage Redmond to reevaluate some decisions for future builds.
So go ahead, move that taskbar to the side and revel in your newfound (or revived) freedom. Whether you're a multitasking guru or a widescreen aficionado, you deserve customization options that fit your workflow and aesthetics.
Ready to give it a try? Share your experiences in the comments. Are you thrilled or underwhelmed by a resurrected vertical taskbar? Let the debates begin!
Source: BetaNews Yes, there is a way to get a vertical taskbar in Windows 11
But worry not, Windows warriors; there’s light at the end of this bottom-pinned tunnel. If vertical screen real estate is your golden ticket, let's dive into the details of how you can bring the vertical taskbar back to life—no black-magic hacks or shady apps required.
Why the Vertical Taskbar Was Banished
Before deep-diving into the solution, let’s recap why this once-standard feature disappeared in the first place. With Windows 11, Microsoft took a design-oriented approach, emphasizing simplicity and uniformity. The idea was to streamline the taskbar experience for users while implementing a cleaner aesthetic design—though for many, it feels a lot less like streamlining and a lot more like shackling.It’s worth noting that the ability to move your taskbar around the desktop had its heyday in earlier Windows versions like 7, 8, and 10. A vertical taskbar appealed specifically to multitaskers and tech enthusiasts craving efficient real estate usage on modern widescreens. But alas, Microsoft seems unshaken by the avalanche of feedback asking for this feature’s return.
Enter Stardock’s Start11: A Taskbar Savior
Microsoft might be holding its ground on keeping the taskbar glued to the bottom of your screen, but third-party developers refuse to leave you hanging. Enter Start11 by Stardock, a customizable Start menu and Windows desktop enhancement software, which has now introduced the ability to reposition your taskbar—yes, even vertically.With the recently launched Start11 v2.5 beta, Stardock made good on users’ demands for a more flexible taskbar configuration. It allows you to place the taskbar on the left or right edge of your screen, just like in the glory days of Windows 7-10. Better yet, you don’t need to feel like you’re rolling the dice by downloading random software; Stardock has been a trusted player in this space for years.
How to Use Start11’s Vertical Taskbar Feature
Start11 adds a touch of old-school usability to the otherwise minimalist Windows 11. Here's how you can reclaim that beloved vertical taskbar position:- Install Start11:
- Download and install Start11 from Stardock.
- If you’re worried about costs, fear not—the software offers a free trial.
- Open the Start11 Configuration Panel:
- After installation, open the configuration panel from the Start menu or system tray.
- Navigate to Taskbar Options:
- Inside the panel, select the Taskbar tab.
- Set Taskbar Position:
- Scroll to the Taskbar Position option.
- Choose your desired configuration: Left, Right, or Bottom (though let’s be honest, you weren’t here for the default).
- Customize Further (Optional):
- Drag your taskbar to your preferred size.
- Explore other customization options available within Start11.
- Save Settings and Enjoy:
- Hit “Apply” to lock in your changes.
- Your vertical taskbar is officially back in business!
What Else Does Start11 Bring to the Table?
While the vertical taskbar is the star here, Start11 doesn't stop at taskbar tweaks. Here are a few other highlights for those looking to elevate their Windows 11 experience:- Centered Taskbar Buttons Across Multiple Monitors: If you’re rocking three or more screens, rejoice in the full support for centered taskbar buttons with a left-aligned Start icon.
- Classic Start Menu Styles: Bring back Windows 7-style menus or tweak them to look just how you want. Feeling nostalgic? Start11 might just be your trip down memory lane.
- Enhanced Productivity Options: Explore minor refinements and bug fixes designed to polish your multitasking experience.
Should You Trust Third-Party Tools Like Start11?
It's a good question. Many users understandably hesitate when approaching third-party apps that modify core system features. However, Stardock stands out as a reliable and well-known developer in the Windows customization space. They've built their reputation with software like ObjectDock, Start8, and Start10, which have been widely adopted by users looking to enhance their Windows OS without compromising security or stability.To its credit, Start11 doesn’t dig deep into your system’s registry or hack Windows code. The customizations sit atop what Windows already provides, similar to how any external app might interface with the operating system’s visual layers.
Still, as with all third-party apps, always download from the official website to mitigate risks.
Why Vertical Beats Horizontal for Many Users
For the uninitiated naysayers, you may be asking: Why does anyone care where their taskbar sits? Isn't it the same thing regardless of alignment? Not so, taskbar amateur. Here’s why positioning matters:- Optimized Screen Space: Ultra-widescreen monitors often have more horizontal real estate than vertical. A vertical taskbar frees up valuable room at the bottom while making better use of the screen’s vertical sides.
- Improved Visibility: A bottom-aligned taskbar gets crowded if you’re managing 20+ open tabs, windows, or apps. Vertical taskbars make scrolling through active applications easier and faster.
- Personal Preference: Let’s face it—some of us are just creatures of habit, longing for a layout we came to love over two decades of Windows evolution.
A Balanced Look at Microsoft’s Approach
We can shake our fists at Microsoft all day, but to its credit, Windows 11 aimed to introduce a polished experience with universal UI consistency. Removing features like the vertical taskbar simplifies their design burden, ensuring fewer bugs and more stable updates moving forward.That being said, Microsoft can’t ignore the passionate subset of its userbase who miss being able to tailor their experience, and perhaps third-party tools like Start11 will encourage Redmond to reevaluate some decisions for future builds.
Conclusion: Take Your Taskbar Higher (Or to the Side)
Stubborn software feature removals aren’t the end of the world, but they can be a serious annoyance—especially for power users and enthusiasts. Stardock’s Start11 offers a compelling, simple way to reverse one of Windows 11’s most frustrating limitations. Whether you’re yearning for a vertical taskbar or feeling like exploring other epic Start menu customizations, Start11 is poised to fill the gaps Microsoft left behind.So go ahead, move that taskbar to the side and revel in your newfound (or revived) freedom. Whether you're a multitasking guru or a widescreen aficionado, you deserve customization options that fit your workflow and aesthetics.
Ready to give it a try? Share your experiences in the comments. Are you thrilled or underwhelmed by a resurrected vertical taskbar? Let the debates begin!
Source: BetaNews Yes, there is a way to get a vertical taskbar in Windows 11
