Wish you could see all the right-click options on Windows 11 without having to click “Show More Options” every single time? Well, there’s a way to tweak the settings so that you can get that classic Windows 10 context menu back, giving you all the choices upfront. By diving into the Windows Registry and making a couple of changes, you can ensure that the full menu appears when you right-click, saving you clicks and time. Keep in mind, though, that this involves editing critical system settings, so proceed with care.
How to Make Windows 11 Always Show More Options
By following these steps, you’ll be able to modify your system to bring back the classic right-click context menu. This approach requires using the Registry Editor, a powerful tool in Windows that can adjust many underlying settings.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
To begin, you must open the Registry Editor.
Press ‘Win + R’ to open the Run dialog, type “regedit,” and hit Enter. This tool allows you to make changes to the system’s registry settings, which control how Windows runs.
Step 2: Navigate to the CLSID Key
Once you’re inside the Registry Editor, find the CLSID key.
Go to “HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID” in the navigation pane on the left. The CLSID is a unique identifier for system components that defines how certain features operate.
Step 3: Create a New Key
Right-click in the CLSID folder, select “New,” then “Key,” and name it “{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}”.
This new key will act as a placeholder for the settings you’re about to introduce.
Step 4: Create a New Subkey
Right-click on the new key you’ve just created, select “New,” then “Key,” and name it “InprocServer32”.
This subkey determines how the system registry manages certain operations and configurations.
Step 5: Modify the Subkey
Click on the “InprocServer32” key and double-click the “(Default)” string value.
Leave the value data field blank and click OK. This action effectively implements the change needed for Windows to show more options on the right-click menu.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 right-click menu will revert to the more detailed Windows 10 style. The changes will take effect after a system restart, and you’ll notice the difference the next time you right-click on a file or desktop.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Always Show More Options
- Always back up your registry before making changes. Mistakes here can cause system issues.
- If you change your mind, you can delete the keys you created, and your context menu will return to the default.
- Double-check the key names and paths to avoid errors.
- Be sure to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
- Use shortcuts like ‘Ctrl + Shift + Esc’ for quick access to the Task Manager, saving the right-click hassle.
FAQs About Making Windows 11 Always Show More Options
Why should I use the Registry Editor?
The Registry Editor allows you to customize Windows settings that aren’t accessible through the usual control panel.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Yes, if you follow the instructions carefully and back up the registry first.
What if I make a mistake?
You can restore your system to a previous state using a backup or system restore point.
Can I undo this change?
Absolutely, just delete the keys you added, and your context menu will go back to its Windows 11 default.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, you must restart for the changes to take effect.
Summary
- Open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the CLSID Key.
- Create a New Key.
- Create a New Subkey.
- Modify the Subkey.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! With just a few adjustments in the Registry Editor, you can make Windows 11 always show more options, just like in the good ol’ Windows 10 days. This tweak is an excellent example of how a little bit of know-how can significantly enhance your user experience. Plus, it’s a great way to streamline your workflow if you’re constantly using the right-click menu.
Remember, while diving into the registry might sound intimidating, it’s pretty straightforward if you follow the steps carefully. And the best part? If you ever decide you want to go back to the default settings, it’s as simple as deleting the new keys you created. So why not give it a try? You might find that those few extra clicks saved each day really add up, giving you more time to focus on what’s important.
For a deeper dive into similar tweaks, consider exploring forums and communities where tech enthusiasts share their tips and tricks. Or, if you’re interested in more ways to customize your Windows 11 experience, there are countless resources out there eager to help you make the most of your system.
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.