Reintroduce Windows Control Panel to Your Context Menu

Microsoft has been on a years-long mission—some might call it an exodus—to phase out the venerable Windows Control Panel in favor of the more modernized Settings app. Despite the smooth transition ushered in with Windows 11, some users still find themselves longing for the robust functionalities of the Control Panel, which can be indispensable for certain settings. Fortunately, there’s a way to reintroduce this classic feature into your daily routine by adding it to your desktop context menu!

Understanding the Shift: Control Panel vs. Settings​

Since Windows 8, Microsoft has been discouraging use of the Control Panel, diverting users to the Settings app. This newer interface is designed to streamline settings management, but it can often lack the depth and specific configurations available in the Control Panel. For instance, network settings and certain system configurations still necessitate access through the older interface, making it a valuable tool for many power users.

Easy Access: How to Add Control Panel to Context Menu​

Here’s a step-by-step guide to adding the Control Panel right into your context menu, transforming your user experience and shaving seconds off tasks that otherwise require multiple clicks.

Step-by-Step Instructions​

1. Open the Registry Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. This launches the Registry Editor, where you can make system modifications (don't worry; this is simpler than it sounds).
2. Navigate to Desktop Background Key:
   • Once in the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell. This key pertains specifically to the desktop context menu.
3. Create a New Key:
   • Right-click on the Shell folder, select New, then Key. Name it "ControlPanel". This key will serve as the link to your Control Panel.
4. Add Icon for Your New Key:
   • Select your newly created ControlPanel key, then right-click in the right pane and select New > String Value. Name this string "Icon".
   • Double-click on it and enter control.exe as the value to set the Control Panel's icon.
5. Defining the Menu Text:
   • Right-click the ControlPanel key again, select New > String Value, and name this one "MUIVerb".
   • Double-click it and set its value to @shell32.dll,-4161 to define the text that appears in the context menu.
6. Control Placement:
   • To choose whether the Control Panel appears at the top or bottom of the context menu, right-click ControlPanel again, select New > String Value, and name it "Position".
   • For placement, set its value to either Top or Bottom.
7. Command Setup:
   • Create a new key under ControlPanel named command. In this key, there should be a (Default) entry on the right side.
   • Double-click it and set its value to control.exe.
8. Final Touch:
   • A Windows restart is not needed for these changes to take effect. Just right-click on your desktop, choose Show more options, and voila! The Control Panel entry should now be a speedy option in your context menu.

Why Go Through All This Trouble?​

It might seem easier to simply search for the Control Panel through the Start Menu, but consider this: convenience comes in layers. By embedding the Control Panel into your context menu, you’re essentially crafting a personalized quick-access tool that aligns with how you navigate your workspace. Each time you right-click and see that familiar option staring back at you, you’ll appreciate the convenience.

In Conclusion​

Though Windows 11 embraces the new, the Control Panel still has its place in the hearts and workflows of many users. By following these straightforward steps, you can restore it to your digital toolkit in an elegant and efficient manner.
Whether you’re a devoted Microsoft follower or a casual fan, these little tweaks can significantly enhance your Windows experience. Who knows? This might inspire you to delve deeper into the Registry and discover other customizations waiting to be unearthed!
So, what's stopping you? Roll up your sleeves, dive into that Registry, and reclaim your beloved Control Panel—it's just a command away!
Source: PCWorld How to add the Control Panel to Windows 11’s context menu