How to Move the Taskbar to the Left in Windows 11: A Simple Aussie Guide

So, you’re keen to shift that stubborn taskbar to the left on Windows 11. Been a bit of a hassle since the latest update, ’cause Microsoft decided to shake up the UI. The usual tricks that worked before don’t quite cut it anymore, but no worries — there’s still a way. Just a tad different from what most tutorials say. Here’s the real deal after having a crack at it on a few machines.

Move the Taskbar to the Left in Windows 11

This tweak basically involves changing the taskbar’s alignment setting. But with Windows 11’s shiny new layout, you can’t just right-click on the taskbar and flick it into place like old times. Instead, you’ll want to dive into the Settings — or if you’re feeling a bit daring, mess around with some registry tweaks or PowerShell. But honestly, the quickest way is through Settings.

Method 1: Using Settings (the easiest and most reliable way)

Why it’s helpful: Windows 11 has tightened up a fair bit on taskbar customisation, so moving it involves a few clicks rather than a right-click drag. Once you set it, it’s done — quick as.

When it’s handy: if your taskbar is stuck in the centre or just refuses to move, or if the options are missing from the right-click menu, this is your best shot. It should snap to the left straight after you select the setting. Sometimes you might need to restart your PC or restart Explorer (taskkill /f /im explorer.exe && start explorer.exe in PowerShell or CMD). A few builds might be a tad glitchy, but generally, it works fine.

1. Open Settings: Hit Windows + I or click the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Go to Personalisation.
3. Click on Taskbar.
4. Scroll down to Taskbar behaviours and find Taskbar alignment. This dropdown now controls whether your taskbar sits in the middle, on the left, or on the right (bit suss that right isn’t an option yet, but left is).
5. Select Left. Done. The taskbar will jump to the left side of your screen.

Pro tip: If your system seems to ignore this in the latest builds, a quick restart or signing out and back in can do the trick. Also, make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated — sometimes these features are still a bit experimental and need the latest patches.

Method 2: Registry Tweaks (if the UI is playing up)

Why it helps: In some setups or older builds, the visual options can be hidden or wonky, so editing the registry manually can force the change. Not everyone’s keen on digging into regedit, but it’s an option if you’re comfortable.

When to use it: If you don’t see the “Taskbar alignment” dropdown or the options are missing, and you’re happy to poke around in regedit. A quick heads-up: messing with the registry can be risky — back it up first.

Steps to try:

1. Open Registry Editor (regedit) — press Windows + R, type regedit, hit Enter.
2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
3. Create or modify a DWORD called TaskbarAlign.
4. Set its value to 0 for left, 1 for centred.
5. Close regedit and restart Windows Explorer (taskkill /f /im explorer.exe) or log out and back in.

This is more of a last-ditch effort — Windows is a bit funny about exposing taskbar position options in 11, especially with the UI changes. Sometimes it sticks; other times, not so much.

Possible hiccups or tips

Sometimes, changes don’t happen straight away, or Explorer might crash a bit. Just restart it with taskkill /f /im explorer.exe or reboot. Remember, Windows 11 updates can change how this all works, so a method that worked yesterday might be broken today. Classic Microsoft!

Tips for Moving the Taskbar to the Left in Win 11

• Make sure your Windows is fully up to date (check Windows Update). Older builds can be a bit flaky.
• If dragging or clicking around doesn’t do the trick, give the registry tweak a go — just back up first.
• If you’re using third-party tools, beware — they might cause conflicts or break after updates, so test sparingly.
• Stay in the loop with community forums or official changelogs, as Microsoft might lock this down further down the track.
• Sometimes, a quick log out or reboot after changing settings helps clear up any weird glitches.

FAQs on Moving the Taskbar Left in Windows 11

Can I put the taskbar on the right or top?

Nah mate, Windows 11 only lets you put the taskbar in the centre or on the left at the bottom. The right and top options are a no-go compared to older versions.

Why does my taskbar sometimes jump back to centre?

Because Windows 11 isn’t 100% stable with these tweaks yet. Updates or a system reset can reset it to default without warning.

Is there an easier way with PowerShell?

Not really. There are some PowerShell commands for certain settings, but moving the taskbar is mostly done via the registry or Settings now.

Will this mess with my apps or files?

Nah, moving the taskbar doesn’t affect your open apps or files. It’s purely cosmetic, mostly.

Summary

• Head to Settings > Personalisation > Taskbar.
• Change Taskbar alignment to Left.
• If that’s not working, give the registry tweak a burl, as explained.
• Reboot if needed, and Bob’s your uncle — you’ve got the taskbar on the left.

Hope this helps save you a few hours. Windows 11’s UI can be a bit finicky, but now you’ve got a couple of options to make the taskbar sit where you want. Cheers!