Moving the taskbar in Windows 11 isn’t exactly straightforward—because of course, Microsoft decided to make it a bit more locked down than older versions. But if you’re like me and prefer having your taskbar on the left or right rather than the bottom, it’s still doable, just not as intuitive. Usually, messing around in the Settings app does the trick, but sometimes it feels like you’re missing an obvious toggle. Don’t worry, it’s just a matter of finding the right spot and maybe doing a little extra digging.
How to Move Taskbar Windows 11
In this section, you’ll follow a method that actually works to move that stubborn taskbar. Just a heads up: some people notice it doesn’t always behave perfectly—maybe it snaps back after a reboot or only works on certain builds. But generally, these steps should get the job done if your system supports it. If not, maybe try one of the alternative methods below or check if your Windows is up to date. The goal is to get that taskbar on the side you prefer without messing up your icons or shortcuts.
Method 1: Using Settings and Registry Edits
This is the usual way, but you might need to tweak the registry if the simple options aren’t enough. First, open the Start menu and click on Settings. Then go to Personalization, and select Taskbar. Here, Windows offers a handful of options, but not an obvious way to move to the sides—at least not directly. So, if you want more control, you’ll need to modify the registry.
Navigate to the registry editor by hitting Win + R, typing regedit, then pressing Enter. Follow this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StuckRects3Look for the key named Settings. It’s a binary blob, which is kind of weird, but you’re looking for a particular byte that controls taskbar position. On some guides, it’s in the 60th byte, but it can vary depending on your version. The idea is:
- 0 – bottom (default)
- 1 – left
- 2 – top (not officially supported)
- 3 – right
It’s kind of a trial-and-error thing unless you’re comfortable with hex editing, which isn’t always perfect (and might break stuff if you go nuts).After editing, restart Windows Explorer or reboot to see the change. You can do that in Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) > find and right-click Windows Explorer > select Restart. Keep note: on some setups, this might not work immediately, or the taskbar might revert after reboot. The registry trick is a bit flaky, but it’s one of the few ways if you want it on the sides.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party Tool
Another one to try—because sometimes Windows just doesn’t let go—are third-party tools like Winhance or custom taskbar tweaks. These apps patch or unlock features that Microsoft ditches, giving you more freedom to move your taskbar anywhere. Yeah, it’s a bit of a hack and use at your own risk, but people have reported decent luck if they want a quick fix without messing with the registry.
Install the app, then look through the options—most have easy toggle buttons or sliders for position. Again, not officially supported, so use caution, and maybe make a system restore point beforehand. Sometimes the app doesn’t work perfectly across all Windows 11 updates, so don’t be surprised if you need to wait for an update or look for alternative patches.
Additional Tips:
- Make sure your Windows 11 is fully up to date—Microsoft tends to push fixes for taskbar stuff in updates. Sometimes the feature is broken or disabled until you run the latest build.
- Try logging out and logging back in or rebooting after making changes. A lot of times, Windows is just lazy about applying new settings.
- If you really want a quick toggle, consider customizing via third-party apps, but keep in mind they might not be compatible with future Windows updates.
Honestly, navigating Windows 11’s taskbar behavior can feel like a wild goose chase, and it’s kind of frustrating that some things that were simple before are now locked down. But with some patience, a registry tweak or third-party tool, you can fake it enough to get your layout just how you like it. Like I said—worked for me on different installs, so maybe it’ll help you too.
Summary
- Open Registry Editor and locate `HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StuckRects3`.
- Edit the
Settingsbinary to change the taskbar position byte (trial and error). - Restart Windows Explorer or reboot your machine.
- Or, try third-party tools for easier, more stable tweaks.
- Keep Windows up to date because sometimes they enable or fix the taskbar options in updates.
Wrap-up
Moving the taskbar in Windows 11 is kind of a mix between poking around in settings and, if that doesn’t work, doing some registry wizardry or using third-party hacks. It’s not as smooth as previous versions, but at least it’s possible for now. If you’re okay with some fiddling and following instructions carefully, you can get your taskbar on the side or even on top—although that last one isn’t officially supported. Just remember, Windows updates might break things again, so don’t get too attached to the setup you have now.
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours of frustration for someone. Good luck, and here’s to making Windows 11 feel a little more yours.