Reducing the taskbar size in Windows 11 is a simple process that involves a few changes in the Windows registry. You’ll need to navigate to the registry editor and modify a specific setting to achieve the smaller taskbar appearance. Follow these steps to make your taskbar smaller and reclaim some screen space.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on Reducing Taskbar Size in Windows 11
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to reduce the size of the taskbar in Windows 11 by modifying the registry settings. Be careful while making changes in the registry editor, as incorrect changes can affect your system’s performance.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
To begin, press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog box, then type “regedit” and press Enter.
The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to make changes to the system settings. Always make sure to back up the registry before making any modifications.
Step 2: Navigate to the Taskbar Settings
Inside the Registry Editor, go to the following path: “HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced”.
This path contains various settings related to the Windows Explorer, including the taskbar.
Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value
Right-click on the “Advanced” folder, select “New”, and then “DWORD (32-bit) Value”. Name this new value “TaskbarSi”.
The “TaskbarSi” value will be used to set the size of the taskbar. The new DWORD value allows you to specify the size.
Step 4: Modify the TaskbarSi Value
Double-click on the “TaskbarSi” value you just created and change the “Value data” to 0 for a smaller taskbar. Click “OK”.
Setting the “Value data” to 0 makes the taskbar smaller. You can also try setting it to 1 for the default size or 2 for a larger taskbar.
Step 5: Restart Windows Explorer
Right-click on the taskbar and open the Task Manager. Find “Windows Explorer” in the list, right-click it, and select “Restart”.
Restarting Windows Explorer will apply the changes you made in the registry. You should now see a smaller taskbar.
After completing these steps, your taskbar will appear smaller, giving you extra screen space and a more streamlined look.
Tips for Reducing Taskbar Size in Windows 11
- Backup the Registry: Always make a backup of your registry before making any changes.
- Use the Right Values: Set the “TaskbarSi” value to 0 for a smaller taskbar, 1 for the default size, and 2 for a larger taskbar.
- Restart Explorer Often: Restarting Windows Explorer is crucial to apply the changes.
- Be Cautious: Be careful when handling the registry editor, as improper changes can lead to system issues.
- Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different taskbar sizes to see what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Registry Editor?
The Registry Editor is a tool in Windows that allows users to view and modify the system’s registry, which stores low-level settings and configurations.
Is modifying the registry safe?
Modifying the registry is safe if you follow the instructions carefully and back up the registry beforehand. Incorrect changes can cause system problems.
Can I revert the changes if I don’t like the smaller taskbar?
Yes, you can revert the changes by setting the “TaskbarSi” value back to 1 for the default size or deleting the DWORD value you created.
Will reducing the taskbar size affect my applications?
No, reducing the taskbar size will not affect how your applications run. It only changes the visual appearance of the taskbar.
Do I need to restart my computer for the changes to take effect?
No, you just need to restart Windows Explorer via the Task Manager for the changes to take effect.
Summary
- Open the Run dialog and type “regedit”.
- Navigate to “HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced”.
- Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named “TaskbarSi”.
- Set the value to 0 for a smaller taskbar.
- Restart Windows Explorer in Task Manager.
Conclusion
Reducing the taskbar size in Windows 11 is a great way to free up some extra screen space and give your desktop a cleaner look. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily modify the taskbar size to suit your preferences. Remember to always proceed with caution when working in the registry editor and back up your settings to avoid any mishaps.
Experimenting with different taskbar sizes can also help you find the best fit for your workflow. If you’re looking for more ways to optimize your Windows 11 experience, consider exploring additional customization options available in the system settings. By fine-tuning your desktop environment, you can create a more efficient and enjoyable computing experience.
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.