Adding the Quick Launch toolbar in Windows 11 is a handy way to access your favorite programs quickly, just like in the good old days of Windows XP. To do this, right-click on the taskbar, select “Toolbars,” then “New Toolbar.” In the folder selection window, paste “shell:Quick Launch” into the path field and hit enter. Finally, click “Select Folder” and voilà, your Quick Launch toolbar appears on the taskbar.
How to Add Quick Launch Toolbar in Windows 11
Setting up a Quick Launch toolbar in Windows 11 might sound like rocket science, but it’s actually as simple as pie. By following these easy steps, you can customize your taskbar to include this feature, giving you swift access to your frequently used apps.
Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar
Right-click on any empty space on the taskbar.
When you right-click, a context menu will appear with several options. This is your gateway to customizing various taskbar settings, including adding new toolbars.
Step 2: Select “Toolbars” then “New Toolbar”
Hover over “Toolbars” and click on “New Toolbar.”
Selecting “New Toolbar” opens up a window where you can choose or designate a folder to act as your toolbar. This folder will be displayed as a toolbar on your taskbar.
Step 3: Enter “shell:Quick Launch” in the Folder Path
In the folder selection window, enter “shell:Quick Launch” in the address bar.
Typing “shell:Quick Launch” directs Windows to use the built-in Quick Launch folder, which is designed for this purpose. It’s like telling your computer exactly where to find your secret stash of goodies.
Step 4: Click “Select Folder”
Once you’ve entered the path, click on “Select Folder.”
This action confirms your choice, and Windows will recognize that you want the Quick Launch toolbar to appear on your taskbar, whisking you a step closer to completion.
Step 5: Arrange and Customize the Toolbar
Drag the toolbar handles to adjust its position and customize it as desired.
By dragging, you can relocate the Quick Launch toolbar anywhere along the taskbar. You can even add or remove shortcuts to personalize it further.
After completing these steps, you’ll see the Quick Launch toolbar docked on your taskbar, ready to use. You can add shortcuts to it, making it a personalized hub for your most-used applications.
Tips for Adding Quick Launch Toolbar in Windows 11
- Consider using shortcuts for all your frequently used applications in the Quick Launch toolbar for speedy access.
- You can resize the Quick Launch area by dragging its edges to fit more icons.
- If you lock your taskbar accidentally, right-click on the taskbar and deselect “Lock the taskbar” to make changes.
- Add only the most important apps to avoid cluttering the toolbar.
- Remember, you can always remove the Quick Launch toolbar by right-clicking on it and choosing “Close toolbar.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick Launch?
Quick Launch is a toolbar that offers quick access to frequently used applications and files.
Can I customize the Quick Launch toolbar?
Yes, you can add or remove shortcuts, resize, and reposition it as needed.
Is Quick Launch the same as pinning apps to the taskbar?
No, Quick Launch is a separate toolbar that you can customize, while pinning adds a shortcut directly to the taskbar.
How do I remove the Quick Launch toolbar?
Right-click on the Quick Launch area and select “Close toolbar” to remove it.
Will Quick Launch slow down my computer?
No, the Quick Launch toolbar is lightweight and doesn’t affect your computer’s performance.
Summary
- Right-click on the taskbar.
- Select “Toolbars” then “New Toolbar.”
- Enter “shell:Quick Launch” in folder path.
- Click “Select Folder.”
- Arrange and customize the toolbar.
Conclusion
The Windows 11 Quick Launch toolbar is like a digital Swiss Army knife, ready to meet your application-launching needs at a moment’s notice. By adding this feature, you’re reviving a classic Windows utility that many users have long cherished. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about efficiency and personalizing your workspace to fit your daily tasks.
While we’ve walked through the steps to set up this handy toolbar, remember that customization is key. You can tweak settings, rearrange icons, and add new shortcuts to make it truly yours. Plus, with these options, you’re not just speeding up your workflow; you’re adding a touch of personality to your desktop environment.
Whether you’re a seasoned computer whiz or someone just getting their feet wet, the Quick Launch toolbar can make your life a bit easier. So, take a moment to set it up, play around with it, and see how it can become an integral part of your Windows 11 experience. With a few clicks, you’ll have your most-used apps right at your fingertips, ready to launch with a single click. Happy customizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.