If you’re using Windows 11 and find yourself frequently needing more options in the context menu, there’s a way to set it up so these options are always visible. By tweaking a few settings, you can bypass those extra clicks and streamline your workflow.
How to Show More Options by Default in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to make sure that full context menu options are shown by default in Windows 11. This will save you time and clicks when accessing frequently used functions.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
To get started, press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
The Registry Editor is a powerful Windows tool that allows you to make system-level changes. Always be cautious when making changes here.
Step 2: Navigate to the Right Folder
In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID.
This particular registry path holds the information we need to modify. Typing it correctly is crucial to finding the right setting.
Step 3: Create a New Key
Right-click on the CLSID folder, select New and then Key. Name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.
This step creates a new folder within the CLSID folder. The name should be exact for the tweak to work.
Step 4: Add a Subkey
Next, right-click on the newly created key, choose New, then Key. Name this new key InprocServer32.
This subkey will hold the specific setting that tells Windows how to handle context menus.
Step 5: Modify the (Default) Entry
Click on InprocServer32, then double-click the (Default) entry in the right-hand pane. Leave the “Value data” field empty and click OK.
By leaving the value empty, you’re essentially telling Windows to use the full context menu by default.
After completing these steps, you’ll need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect. Once rebooted, you should see the full context menu options appear by default when you right-click.
Tips for Showing More Options by Default in Windows 11
Back Up Your Registry: Always back up the registry before making any changes to avoid any unintended effects.
Use Admin Privileges: Make sure you’re logged in as an administrator, as you’ll need these privileges to make system changes.
Check for Updates: Ensure that your Windows is up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
Understand the Path: Double-check the registry path you are editing to ensure accuracy.
Test on a Non-Critical Machine: If possible, test these changes on a non-critical or secondary machine first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Showing More Options by Default in Windows 11
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Yes, but you should always back up your registry before making any changes. Mistakes can cause system instability.
Can I undo these changes?
Absolutely. You can delete the key you created in the Registry Editor to revert to the original settings.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, a reboot is necessary for the changes to take effect.
Will this affect system performance?
No, showing more options by default has minimal to no impact on system performance.
Can I use third-party software instead?
Yes, there are third-party tools available that can modify context menus, but editing the registry is a direct method without additional software.
Summary
- Open the Registry Editor (
regedit). - Navigate to
HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID. - Create a new key named
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. - Add a subkey named
InprocServer32. - Modify the
(Default)entry and leave “Value data” empty.
Conclusion
Changing Windows 11 to show more options by default can save you from extra clicks and make your workflow smoother. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can tweak your context menu to always show the full set of options. Just remember to back up your registry before making any changes, and proceed carefully. If you’re looking for more ways to optimize your Windows 11 experience, there are many other tweaks and settings you can explore. Happy computing!
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.