How to customize and move the side taskbar in Windows 11

Windows 11 has brought with it a significant redesign of its taskbar, but not all users are satisfied with the customization options it offers. Changing the position of the taskbar, especially placing it on the side, is a feature that many miss. Although Microsoft does not allow this adjustment natively, there are methods to achieve it with or without third-party tools. In this article we will tell you Everything you need to know to get the most out of the taskbar in Windows 11.

Basic Taskbar Settings

In Windows 11, taskbar customization starts with the native options of settingTo access these settings, right-click on an empty space on the taskbar and select Taskbar settingsFrom there, you can adjust multiple options:

• Pin apps: You can add your favorite programs directly to the bar for quick access.
• Active icons: Enables or disables buttons like Task view, Widgets y Cat.
• Tablet Optimization: On 2-in-1 devices, you can collapse the bar to maximize workspace and expand it when needed.

How to move the taskbar to the side without programs

Although Windows 11 does not offer this feature intuitively, there is a trick to modify the system registry and place the bar in a different position. Follow these steps to do it:

1. Open the Windows 11 search box, type regedit y run it as administrator.
2. Navigate to route HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software > Microsoft > Windows > CurrentVersion > Explorer > StuckRects3.
3. Take the Double click on the Settings entry and locate the value o3.
4. Change its value depending on the position you prefer:
   • 00: Bar on the left side.
   • 01: Bar at the top.
   • 02: Bar on the right side.
5. Restart your computer or the process explorer.exe to apply the changes.

If you have center-aligned icons, you can adjust their position from the settings to avoid a weird layout.

Use third-party tools for further customization

If you prefer a solution simpler and with additional options, you can use third-party applications such as StartAllBackThis tool not only allows you to move the taskbar to any position, but also includes these functions:

• Add tags to icons to easily identify them.
• Change the size and layout of the bar, simulating older versions like Windows 10 or 7.
• Customize colors and activate dark mode completely.

To use StartAllBack, download it directly from its official website. Once installed, go to the section Taskbar in the left menu and select your preferred location from the drop-down box. Changes are applied instantly.

Advantages of placing the bar on one side

Nowadays, most screens are widescreen, meaning they are wider than they are tall. Placing the taskbar on the side can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Greater vertical space: Ideal for viewing more content in documents or web pages.
• Accessibility: Makes it easier to access applications when working with multiple windows open.
• Functional design: It adapts better to the distribution of content on the screen.

Although Windows 11 limits certain customization options, There are effective methods to customize the taskbar to your needs. Whether by editing the registry or using external tools, you can transform the user experience to suit your work style. Plus, improvements like tablet optimization make this system more versatile, although there is still room for evolution to satisfy the entire community.