Trying to get rid of that annoying “Show More Options” in Windows 11? Yeah, it’s a common gremlin. Because of course, Windows has to make things harder than necessary. Anyway, fixing this usually involves messing around in the registry — which some folks find intimidating, but honestly, it’s just a matter of following the steps carefully. Here’s how it goes, from someone who’s actually done it before and can confirm it’s worth the slightly risky fiddling.
Removing “Show More Options” in Windows 11
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
First off, press Win + R to pop open the Run dialog, then type regedit and hit Enter. The registry editor is a powerful beast, so don’t go clicking around like a maniac. Be mindful since setting the wrong registry value can cause weird issues. Sometimes, on one setup it failed the first time, then worked after a reboot, so don’t freak out if nothing happens immediately.
Step 2: Navigate to the Specific Key
Once you’re in the Registry Editor, head over to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID. If you’re using a different Windows build or user profile, paths can be a little different, but this is typically the one. On some machines, this path might be a tad different, but you should find that key.
Step 3: Create a New Key
Right-click on CLSID, choose New > Key, and name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. This GUID is basically the magic “toggle” that Windows uses to show or hide the extra context menu options. Creating this key is crucial because it tells Windows, “Hey, just skip the show more options step.”
Step 4: Add a Subkey
Inside that new key, right-click and select New > Key again, then name it InprocServer32. Basically, this step specifies what server should process the context menu actions. It’s a standard subkey used in many registry tweaks, so no surprise it’s needed here.
Step 5: Edit the Default Value
Click on InprocServer32, then double-click the (Default) value and just click “OK” without typing anything. Yeah, no value needed. This trick partly confuses Windows into not showing the “Show More Options” anymore. On some setups, this change might not seem obvious immediately, but give it a reboot or log out and back in. Sometimes the effect is subtle or requires a restart to take full effect.
And just like that, the “Show More Options” item should disappear from right-click menus. Smooths out right-click speed and reduces clutter. The next time you right-click a file or folder, you’ll find everything right there, fewer clicks, more instant access.
Tips for Removing “Show More Options” in Windows 11
- Back up your registry first. Always, no matter how confident you are. You can export the key via File > Export.
- Make sure you’re comfortable using the Registry Editor — don’t go poking around randomly.
- If things go sideways, a quick delete of that
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}key and reboot usually gets things back to normal. - Expect Windows updates to possibly undo or change these tweaks. Keep that in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to edit the Windows registry?
Mostly, but you gotta be careful. A wrong move can mess stuff up, so always back up before making edits. It’s not a bad idea to export the registry key you’re messing with before changing it.
What if I want to get the “Show More Options” back?
Just delete that {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} key and restart. The default behavior will come back, although sometimes you might need to log out or reboot twice.
Can this be automated?
Yup, you can write a batch or PowerShell script to add or delete that registry key all at once. If you’re comfortable scripting, it’s a neat shortcut. Otherwise, just do it manually — it’s quick enough.
Does this slow down Windows?
Nah, it’s just changing how the context menu behaves; it doesn’t affect overall system performance. It’s just cleaner, faster access.
Will updates mess this up?
Yeah, there’s a good chance Windows updates might revert this, so keep that backup handy if you rely on this tweak. Sometimes future updates reset or disable custom registry tweaks.
Summary
- Open Registry Editor with
regedit. - Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID.
- Create new key
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. - Add subkey InprocServer32.
- Edit (Default) to skip “Show More Options”.
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone. Just remember, registry edits are powerful but need to be handled with care. If this gets one update moving, mission accomplished. Good luck tinkering with your Windows setup — more straightforward menus make life a lot easier.