Unlock Windows 10 Action Center in Windows 11 24H2: A Simple Registry Trick

In the fast-evolving landscape of Windows operating systems, nostalgia for the past can often spark innovative solutions in the present. For users of Windows 11's latest update, 24H2, a swirl of excitement surrounds the ability to reintegrate elements from Windows 10—including the beloved Action Center. A recent discovery reveals that with a simple tweak to the Windows Registry, you can access the Windows 10 Action Center, all without sacrificing your Windows 11 experience.

What is the Action Center, Anyway?​

First, let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane. Introduced in Windows 8.1, the Action Center is essentially a centralized notification hub for your desktop. Think of it as the “to-do point” where all notifications gather—a digital trophy case for alerts, reminders, and quick settings. While Windows 10 refined and enhanced this feature, offering a more organized layout with action buttons for quick toggling of settings, Windows 11 reshaped it further, integrating notifications and Quick Settings into a more streamlined interface. Yet, for some users, the charm of the previous iteration remains irresistible.

Accessing Windows 10's Action Center in Windows 11 24H2​

The Registry Trick Explained​

According to findings shared by Windows enthusiast Bob Pony on X (formerly Twitter), it's indeed possible to unlock this nostalgic feature by diving into the Windows Registry. Now, before you hit the panic button, let’s clarify: modifying the registry can sound daunting, but it’s also quite simple and can be done with a few careful steps:

1. Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. You may need to grant Administrator permissions.
2. Navigate to the Desired Location: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion.
3. Create a New Key: Right-click on CurrentVersion, select New, then Key, and name it Control Center.
4. Add a New DWORD: Within the newly created Control Center key, right-click, choose New, and select DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this DWORD UseLiteLayout.
5. Modify the DWORD Value: Double-click on UseLiteLayout and set its value to 1.
6. Restart Your Computer: To ensure the tweaks take effect, a quick system restart should do the trick.

Depending on how you've set it up, once you've jumped through these hoops, the Windows 10 Action Center should pop up, ready to be your digital sentinel once more.

Why Bother with the Action Center?​

You might be wondering, “What does the Action Center offer that I can't already access in Windows 11?” It's a fair question! For many users, the nostalgia and familiarity of the traditional layout can enhance productivity. Frequent users may find the quick access to notifications and settings less visually cluttered and more straightforward. Additionally, for those who have yet to adjust to Windows 11’s new framework, this tweak could ease the transition.

The Broader Context​

This registry hack typifies a broader trend within the Windows community: the desire to take control of one's computing environment. As operating systems become increasingly complex, users express frustration over streamlined designs that abandon beloved features. Tools like WinSetView have surfaced, allowing Windows 10's File Explorer to thrive in Windows 11. As a Windows enthusiast, you are not only a user but a curator of your digital experience. These adjustments empower us to reclaim functionalities that resonate with our workflows.

Key Takeaways​

• Registry Tweaks: With a simple adjustment, the Windows 10 Action Center can be summoned within Windows 11 24H2, offering a glimpse back to a familiar utility.
• Nostalgia Meets Functionality: While new features are essential, the yearning for ‘what was’ continues to influence how users shape their digital landscapes.
• Community and Customization: The ability to revert to a previous experience highlights Windows users’ resourcefulness and the thriving community spirit that drives innovations in Windows customization.

By embracing such tweaks, you're not just a passive consumer of technology but an active participant in the evolution of your computing experience. So, dive into that registry and give the Windows 10 Action Center a second chance to shine in your Windows 11 environment. Happy tweaking!

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 24H2 still has Windows 10 Action Center, access via this Registry trick