How to Customize the Windows 11 Taskbar

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Access taskbar settings

   Right-click any empty space on the taskbar. Select Taskbar settings from the context menu to open the customization panel in the Settings app.

   Note: Alternatively, press Windows + I to open Settings and navigate to Personalization > Taskbar.
2. 1 min

   Modify taskbar alignment

   Within the Taskbar behaviors section, locate Taskbar alignment. Use the dropdown menu to toggle between Left and Center based on your preference.

   Note: Centering aligns your icons closer to the Start menu, while Left mimics the classic Windows interface.
3. 1 min

   Manage system tray icons

   Expand the Taskbar items section. Use the toggle switches to show or hide the Search, Task view, Widgets, and Chat buttons to reclaim space.

4. 1 min

   Control corner icons

   Select Other system tray icons to define which applications appear in the corner overflow menu. Toggle individual apps to On to show them in the primary tray area.

   Note: This menu also allows you to toggle the show/hide status of the system clock and notification center.
5. 30 sec

   Enable taskbar auto-hide

   Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors and check the box labeled Automatically hide the taskbar. The taskbar will now collapse when not in use to maximize your screen real estate.