How to Customize Windows 11 Start Menu

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How to Customize Windows 11 Start Menu

Windows 11 brings a fresh, modern interface that is designed to enhance user experience through aesthetics and functionality. The Start Menu, a vital component of the operating system, has undergone significant changes. It’s now centered on the screen and offers a cleaner layout compared to its predecessor. However, many users want more control over their Start Menu’s appearance and functionality. This article will explore various ways to customize the Windows 11 Start Menu to best suit your needs.

Understanding the New Start Menu Layout

Before diving into customization, it’s essential to understand the default layout of the Windows 11 Start Menu.


  • Center-Aligned Icons

    : Windows 11 centers the Start Menu in the taskbar, presenting a clean view with a minimalist design.

  • Pinned Apps

    : This section allows you to pin your most-used applications for quick access.

  • Recommendation Area

    : Below pinned apps, you’ll find suggested files and applications based on your usage, enhancing productivity.

  • All Apps Button

    : Clicking on the “All Apps” button reveals the complete list of installed applications, organized alphabetically.

Recognizing these features sets the foundation for effective customization.

Customizing the Start Menu Layout


Pin and Unpin Applications


  • Pinning Apps

    : You can instantly pin an application to the Start Menu by right-clicking on the app in the Start Menu or from the “All Apps” section and selecting “Pin to Start”. This allows quick access to your favorite applications.

  • Unpinning Apps

    : To remove an application, right-click on the pinned app and select “Unpin from Start”. This action keeps your Start Menu tidy.


Resizing Pinned Apps

  • Windows 11 allows you to resize pinned app icons. Right-click on the pinned app, hover over “Resize”, and choose from Small, Medium, or Large. This flexibility enables you to create a layout that aligns with your usage.


Grouping Pinned Apps

  • While the Start Menu does not support traditional folders for apps, you can manually arrange apps to create a logical grouping. Just drag and drop apps to position them next to each other, creating a custom layout that suits your workflow.

Utilizing Folders in the Start Menu

Though Windows 11 eliminated classic folder support within the Start Menu, you can simulate this functionality using the “Start Menu Folders” feature present in the taskbar:

Customizing Recommended Section

The recommended section of the Start Menu is based on your activity. Customizing what appears here enhances efficiency:

Changing Start Menu Settings

Windows 11 provides several settings that allow users to customize their Start Menu experience:


Accessing Personalization Settings

:

  • Right-click on the desktop, select “Personalize,” and navigate to “Start.” Here you will find various options to modify your Start Menu.


Show Recently Added Apps

: Enable or disable the display of recently added apps. This toggle can help you manage your Start Menu either by promoting new installations or keeping it clutter-free.


Show Most Used Apps

: This setting allows for quick access to frequently utilized applications. It’s especially useful for boosting productivity by retaining the essential tools front and center.


Show Recently Opened Items

: Enabling this option displays recently accessed files and programs, streamlining your workflow by showcasing your most relevant projects.

Customizing Start Menu Color and Transparency

Aesthetic customization can significantly improve user experience. Here’s how to modify your Start Menu colors and transparency:


Changing Theme Color

:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Personalization” > “Colors”. Here you can choose between Light, Dark, or Custom themes.
  • The default theme impacts the Start Menu’s appearance, with light themes providing a bright interface and dark themes offering a sleeker, modern look.


Accent Color

: Select an accent color that will highlight the Start Menu area. This can be done from the “Choose your accent color” section, where you have the option to select a pre-defined color or create a custom hue.


Transparency Effects

: Toggle on or off the “Transparency effects” option to change how background colors blend with the Start Menu. A transparent effect smoothens the transition between the menu and the desktop, delivering a more cohesive look.

Using Windows Widgets for Enhanced Usability

Widgets in Windows 11 offer a handy way to incorporate information directly into your Start Menu experience:


Activating Widgets

: You can enable widgets by clicking on the widgets icon on the taskbar. Widgets provide quick access to weather, calendar, news, and your to-do list.


Accessing Widgets from the Start Menu

: While not directly part of the Start Menu, you can add an icon for quick access to widgets, enhancing your productivity whenever you need context or quick information.

Adding Custom Shortcuts to the Start Menu

If you often use specific files or folders, you can easily create shortcuts for quick access:


Creating Shortcuts

: Right-click on the file or folder you want to pin, select “Show more options,” and choose “Pin to Start.” This places the item directly into your Start Menu, allowing you to access it within seconds.


Organizing Shortcuts

: Much like pinned apps, you can drag and place these shortcuts wherever you prefer in the Start Menu for optimal organization.

Third-Party Start Menu Customization Tools

For users looking to take their customization to the next level, third-party applications can offer extensive options beyond the built-in capabilities of Windows 11. Some popular tools include:


Start11

: This tool brings back the classic Start Menu look, allowing for a more traditional aesthetic. Users can choose various styles and configurations, making it feel more like previous Windows versions.


Open-Shell

: Previously known as Classic Shell, Open-Shell is open-source software providing classic features like customizable skins, start menu layouts, and additional features.


StartIsBack

: This paid tool helps restore classic functionalities with options for personalization, including layout and visual style, allowing you more freedom in adjusting your Start Menu.

Backing Up Your Customizations

After spending time customizing your Start Menu, consider backing up your settings to avoid losing them during system installations or updates:


Using Windows Backup

: Use Windows 11’s built-in backup feature to save settings. Go to “Settings” > “Accounts” > “Backup.” Ensure your settings are backed up to OneDrive for easy restoration.


Manual Backup

: You can also document your setup by taking screenshots or writing down your configuration so you can quickly set things up again in the future.

Conclusion

Customizing the Windows 11 Start Menu allows you to mold the interface to fit your personal preferences and workflow, enhancing usability and efficiency. From pinning applications and resizing icons to altering aesthetic features like color and transparency, each user’s customization can be as unique as their usage patterns.

Whether you’re a casual user or a professional needing quick access to tools, these customization options ensure that your experience is not only personalized but also optimized for productivity. With ongoing updates and improvements to Windows 11, staying informed about new features will also help you keep your Start Menu functional and relevant. Embrace the flexibility Windows 11 offers, and tailor your Start Menu to reflect your digital lifestyle!

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