Windows 11 is packed with new features, but navigating to specific options can be a bit tricky. One common request is the ability to always show more options when you right-click on files or folders. This quick guide will walk you through the steps to ensure that you have instant access to all the options you need.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Always Show More Options in Windows 11
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to modify your registry settings so that every time you right-click, the full context menu appears without having to click “Show more options.”
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
To start, press Windows + R and type regedit.
Opening the Registry Editor is crucial because this is where you’ll make the necessary changes. The Windows + R shortcut opens the Run dialog box, which helps you access internal settings quickly.
Step 2: Navigate to the Context Menu Path
Find the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID.
The registry is like a map of settings and configurations for your computer. By navigating to this specific path, you’re going to the section that controls the context menu.
Step 3: Create a New Key
Right-click on CLSID, then choose New > Key. Name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.
Creating a new key in the registry is like adding a new directory to a file system. This key will hold the settings to always show more options.
Step 4: Add a Sub-Key
Right-click on the new key and select New > Key again. Name this one InprocServer32.
This sub-key acts like a folder within a folder. It will contain the exact setting that makes the full context menu appear.
Step 5: Modify the Default Value
Double-click the (Default) value under InprocServer32 and leave its data blank. Click OK.
By leaving the value data blank, you’re setting a condition that forces Windows 11 to always show more options. It’s a specific tweak that tricks the system into bypassing the condensed menu.
After you complete these steps, you’ll need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect. Once restarted, any time you right-click on a file or folder, the full context menu will appear instantly, without the need to click on “Show more options.”
Tips: How to Always Show More Options in Windows 11
- Backup Your Registry: Before making any changes, always backup your registry to avoid potential issues.
- Understand the Keys: Familiarize yourself with what each registry key does to avoid accidental changes.
- Use Admin Rights: Make sure you have administrative privileges to modify the registry.
- Test Changes: After applying changes, test them to ensure they work as expected before moving on.
- Keep Updated: Regularly check for Windows updates, as they might change how these settings work.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Always Show More Options in Windows 11
What is the Registry Editor?
The Registry Editor is a tool in Windows that lets you view and change settings in the system registry.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
It’s safe if you follow instructions carefully and back up the registry before making changes.
Can I revert the changes?
Yes, you can delete the key you created to revert the changes.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, a restart is necessary for the changes to take effect.
Will this affect system performance?
No, showing more options in the context menu should not affect system performance noticeably.
Summary
- Open Registry Editor with
regedit. - Navigate to
HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID. - Create a key
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. - Add a sub-key
InprocServer32. - Modify the
(Default)value and leave it blank.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy way to always show more options in Windows 11. By tweaking the registry settings, you can save time and streamline your workflow. Just remember to take precautions when working with the registry, such as backing up your data and understanding each step. Windows 11 may be new, but with these tips, you can make it work the way you want. Why not give it a try today and see the difference it makes? For further reading, check out other customization options in Windows 11 to optimize your experience even more.
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.