Ungrouping windows in Windows 11 is a nifty trick to enhance your multitasking game. By default, this OS groups similar apps together in the taskbar. While it seems organized, it can be a tad bothersome for those who want quick access to each window. To ungroup, you’ll need to tweak some settings. It’s a straightforward process that involves navigating to the Taskbar settings and changing a specific view option. Once you’re done, each of your open windows will appear separately on the taskbar, making it easier to switch between them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ungroup Windows in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to ungroup windows in Windows 11, allowing each window to stand on its own in your taskbar. This change will make your taskbar more interactive and accessible.
Step 1: Access Taskbar Settings
First, right-click on the taskbar and choose “Taskbar settings” from the menu.
Doing this will open the taskbar settings menu where you can modify various options related to how your taskbar behaves.
Step 2: Navigate to Taskbar Behaviors
Once in taskbar settings, scroll down to find “Taskbar behaviors.”
Here, you’ll find options that dictate how your taskbar looks and responds, including the grouping of windows and app icons.
Step 3: Change the Combine Taskbar Buttons Option
Look for the option labeled “Combine taskbar buttons” and select “Never” from the dropdown menu.
This setting is what controls whether your taskbar icons are grouped together or shown individually. Selecting “Never” ensures that each window appears separately.
Step 4: Apply the Changes
After selecting “Never,” simply close the settings window to apply the changes.
Your taskbar will immediately adjust to display each open window separately, providing a clear view of all your running applications.
Step 5: Verify the Changes
Check your taskbar to ensure that each window appears individually and that the changes have taken effect.
If your taskbar now shows each window as a separate icon, you’ve successfully ungrouped your windows in Windows 11.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your taskbar will feel fresher and more user-friendly. Spotting and switching between different applications becomes a breeze, making your workflow more efficient.
Tips for Ungrouping Windows in Windows 11
- Consider Your Workflow Needs: Depending on your work style, ungrouped windows might clutter your taskbar. Consider your multitasking needs before making the change.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes updates might reset your settings, including how taskbar buttons behave.
- Try Taskbar Tweaks: Experiment with other taskbar settings such as pinning your most-used apps for quicker access.
- Explore Third-Party Tools: If you miss some of the old taskbar functionalities, consider third-party apps that restore classic taskbar behaviors.
- Backup Before Tweaking: Always back up your system settings before making changes, just in case you want to revert back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my windows grouped on the taskbar?
Windows 11 groups windows by default to save space and maintain a tidy taskbar appearance.
Can I ungroup windows using a shortcut?
Currently, there’s no direct shortcut to ungroup windows; it requires a settings change.
Will ungrouping windows affect performance?
Ungrouping windows is unlikely to affect performance; it simply changes how they’re displayed.
Is it possible to revert the ungrouping?
Yes, you can easily revert the changes by going to taskbar settings and selecting a different option under “Combine taskbar buttons.”
Can I choose which apps to group or ungroup?
As of now, the settings apply universally to all apps, not selectively.
Summary
- Access Taskbar Settings.
- Navigate to Taskbar Behaviors.
- Change the Combine Taskbar Buttons Option.
- Apply the Changes.
- Verify the Changes.
Conclusion
Changing how your taskbar displays windows can really boost your productivity. Ungrouping windows in Windows 11 is one way to customize your workspace to better fit your needs. By making each window stand alone, you gain quick, easy access to exactly what you need, precisely when you need it. This small change might seem minor, but it can make a big difference in how you navigate your computer daily.
Want more tips on personalizing your Windows experience? Don’t hesitate to explore settings and experiment with different configurations. Each tweak you make is another step towards tailoring your system to your style. Whether you’re juggling multiple projects at once or savoring a leisurely browsing session, customizing your taskbar is a step towards a more efficient and enjoyable digital life. Keep exploring, keep tweaking, and before you know it, you’ll master the art of making Windows work for you, not the other way around.
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.