Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system, introduces a revamped taskbar with new features and a more modern look. One of the notable changes includes the alignment of icons to the center of the screen, following a more refined design aesthetic. However, some users have expressed their desire to customize the taskbar size in Windows 11. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the taskbar size on your Windows 11 device.
Step 1: Open Windows Registry Editor
In order to change the taskbar size, we first need to access the Windows Registry Editor. Follow these steps:
1. Press WIN + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit” (without quotes) and press Enter or click OK.
3. Click “Yes” if prompted by User Account Control.
Step 2: Locate Taskbar Size Registry Key
Now that you have opened the Windows Registry Editor, follow these steps to locate the necessary registry key:
1. In the left pane, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current
Version\Explorer\Advanced.
2. If there is no “Advanced” folder under Explorer, right-click on “Explorer,” choose “New” > “Key,” and name it “Advanced.”
Step 3: Create DWORD Value for Taskbar Size
1. In the Advanced folder, right-click in an empty space in the right pane.
2. Go to New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
3. Name this new DWORD value “TaskbarSi.”
Step 4: Customize Taskbar Size
Now you can customize your Windows 11 taskbar size by setting different values for your newly created DWORD value:
1. Double-click on TaskbarSi.
2. In the Edit DWORD (32-bit) Value box, choose Decimal as the Base option.
3. Set the Value data to one of the following:
– 0: Small taskbar size
– 1: Medium taskbar size (default)
– 2: Large taskbar size
4. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
Step 5: Restart Windows Explorer
The final step is to restart Windows Explorer to apply the changes:
1. Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC on your keyboard to open Task Manager.
2. Locate “Windows Explorer” in the list of processes.
3. Right-click on “Windows Explorer” and choose “Restart.”
Once Windows Explorer restarts, your taskbar size should be updated according to your chosen value.
In conclusion, changing the taskbar size in Windows 11 requires a few simple steps in the Windows Registry Editor. Be cautious when making changes in the registry, as incorrect alterations can lead to system instability. Always make sure to backup your registry before making any modifications. With this guide, you can now customize your Windows 11 taskbar size to better suit your preferences and screen layout.