Windows 11: How to Move the Start Menu to the Left Side of the Taskbar

• From Which Windows 11 Version Is This Possible?
• Step-by-Step Guide
• Additional Options
• Terms Explained
• TL;DR (Quick Summary)
• Your Feedback Matters

Since the release of Windows 11, the Start Menu is placed centered by default in the taskbar. Many users find this change unusual, since in Windows 10 and earlier versions the Start Menu was always located in the bottom-left corner.

Luckily, this behavior can easily be changed. With just a few clicks, you can move the Start Menu back to the left side and restore the familiar look.

From Which Windows 11 Version Is This Possible?

Since the first official Windows 11 version (21H2, October 2021), Microsoft has included the option to change the taskbar alignment. You don’t need to install any extra tools or wait for updates – the setting is built right in.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to move the Start Menu back to the left in Windows 11:

1. Open Settings
   Click the Start Menu → gear icon (or press Windows key + I).
2. Select Personalization
   In the left sidebar, choose Personalization.
3. Open Taskbar Settings
   Scroll down and click Taskbar.
4. Adjust Taskbar Behaviors
   Expand Taskbar behaviors to show more options.
5. Change Taskbar Alignment
   Under Taskbar alignment, you can choose:
   • Centered (default)
   • Left (like in Windows 10)
6. Done!
   Your Start Menu and all pinned icons will now appear on the left side of the taskbar.

Additional Options

In the same menu, you’ll also find some other useful settings:

• Automatically hide the taskbar
  Saves screen space – the taskbar only appears when you move your mouse to the bottom edge.
• Show badges on taskbar apps
  Displays small indicators (like the number of new messages) directly on app icons.
• Multiple displays
  If you use more than one monitor, you can choose whether the taskbar appears on all screens.

Terms Explained

• Taskbar: The bar at the bottom of the screen that shows open apps, the Start Menu, and system icons.
• Start Menu: The main Windows menu to launch programs, search files, and access settings.
• Badges: Small symbols or numbers that show app notifications (e.g., unread emails).

TL;DR (Quick Summary)

• Open Settings → Personalization → Taskbar
• Click Taskbar behaviors
• Set Taskbar alignment to Left

Your Feedback Matters

Do you still have questions or issues with customizing the taskbar in Windows 11?
Feel free to leave a comment – I’ll be happy to help. Tips, personal experiences, or alternative solutions are also welcome!