Guide to Relocating the Taskbar to the Top or Side in Windows 11

Guide to Relocating the Taskbar to the Top or Side in Windows 11
  • The Taskbar in Windows 11 has been redesigned, eliminating native support for relocation due to both design intricacies and minimal user demand.
  • However, users can still reposition the Taskbar using third-party applications like ExplorerPatcher or Start11.
  • Attempting to use the Registry method to move the Taskbar is no longer effective in Windows 11.

Introduction to Windows 11’s Taskbar Redesign

Updated December 16, 2025: Windows 11 has undergone significant changes, introducing a revamped Taskbar that features a centered Start menu and app icons, alongside a new notification area equipped with updated effects and animations. While these enhancements bring a modern touch to the interface, they also remove certain legacy features, notably the capability to reposition the Taskbar across the screen.

Why Can’t You Move the Taskbar?

The inability to move the Taskbar in Windows 11 stems from its entirely new design paradigm. Microsoft has cited that relocating the Taskbar to either the right or left side of the screen complicates the overall interface, affecting the placement of the Start menu and other app buttons. The current layout and accompanying animations are specifically crafted for a bottom-only position, leading to the decision that retaining the option to move it was not justifiable due to insufficient user interest.

Alternative Options for Moving the Taskbar

If you wish to reposition the Taskbar to areas such as the top or sides of the screen, you can achieve this through third-party software solutions. Below, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions for using both ExplorerPatcher and Start11 to customize your Taskbar’s position.

Repositioning the Taskbar with ExplorerPatcher

If you’re unable to access Registry settings, ExplorerPatcher offers a viable alternative to move the Taskbar to the top of your display. This free utility restores legacy features of the Taskbar, including repositioning capabilities. While it may not be flawless, it presents a solid choice for those seeking customization options.

Steps to Move the Taskbar to the Top with ExplorerPatcher

  1. Visit the ExplorerPatcher GitHub page to download the tool.

  2. In the “Assets” section, click on the ep_setup.exe link to begin the download.

    ExplorerPatcher download

    Note: Be aware that your browser may flag the software as untrusted due to potential system modifications. Proceed at your own risk as the app functions as intended.

  3. Accept any prompts in your browser to keep the file.

  4. Double-click the installer file to commence the setup process.

  5. Right-click the Taskbar and select Properties.

  6. Navigate to Taskbar in the left-hand panel.

  7. Select the “Windows 10” option under “Taskbar style.”

  8. Utilize the “Primary taskbar location on screen” drop-down to select Top, thus moving the Taskbar to the upper area of the screen. Additional options include left and right.

    Taskbar move top option

  9. (Optional) Adjust the “Start button style” to choose the “Windows 11” aesthetic.

  10. (Optional) Select Always combine in the “Combine taskbar icons on the primary taskbar” setting.

  11. Navigate to Start menu in the left pane.

  12. Choose the “Windows 11” option under the “Start menu style” section.

    Windows 11 Start menu style

  13. Click on Restart File Explorer in the bottom left if you don’t see your changes take effect.

After following these steps, your Taskbar will now be located at the top of your screen.

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It is vital to recognize that ExplorerPatcher may become unstable following updates to the Windows operating system, although developers generally address these issues quickly.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0UyuWX8NHI

Using Start11 to Change Taskbar Position

Another effective way to adjust the Taskbar’s location is by utilizing the Start11 application from Stardock. Unlike ExplorerPatcher, Start11 is a paid solution, currently priced at $9.99, but it does offer a trial period of 30 days which can be initiated with your email address.

Steps to Move the Taskbar to the Top with Start11

  1. Visit the Start11 page to get the application.

  2. Click the Try Free button to download the application to your computer.

    Start11 download

    Note: Your browser may flag the application as untrusted for similar reasons as previously mentioned. Use with discretion.

  3. Run the installer by double-clicking the setup file.

  4. Agree to the terms of service.

  5. Continue clicking Next until completion.

  6. Launch Start11 from the Start menu.

  7. Select the “Start 30 Day Trial” button.

    Start11 registration

  8. Verify your email address.

  9. Click the Continue button to start your trial.

  10. Finalize by clicking the Finish button.

  11. Go to the Start Menu within the application.

  12. Select the “Windows 11 style” option.

    Start11 Start menu Windows 11 style option

  13. Navigate to the Taskbar section.

  14. Access the Taskbar position setting.

  15. Select the Align top option for the “Primary monitor” setting.

    Start11 Taskbar position align top option

  16. Confirm by clicking Yes.

  17. (Optional) If using a secondary monitor, you can align the Taskbar to the top in the same manner.

    Click Yes to confirm.

Upon completion, your Taskbar will now be positioned at the top of your screen, seamlessly aligning with the Windows 11 Start menu.

The Start11 app provides various settings for Taskbar and Start menu customization, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences.

Legacy Registry Method for Taskbar Position (Deprecated)

As of version 22H2, the existing Registry method for repositioning the Taskbar is obsolete. You might still attempt it in earlier releases, such as version 21H2; however, it is not a reliable method for those using the latest iteration.The most effective solutions for adjusting the Taskbar position remain the use of ExplorerPatcher and Start11.

Legacy Steps for Moving the Taskbar

  1. Open Start on your Windows 11 device.

  2. Type regedit in the search bar and select the top result to launch the Registry Editor.

  3. Naviagte to the following path:

    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StuckRects3

  4. Double-click on the Settings binary key.

  5. In the “Value data” section, locate the second row and sixth column. Replace the 03 value by pressing delete and inputting 01 to position the Taskbar at the top of the screen.

    Windows 11 change taskbar position

  6. To place the Taskbar on the right side, change the value to 02.

  7. To position it on the left, set the value to 00.

  8. For the bottom position, revert to 03.

  9. Confirm by clicking the OK button.

  10. Right-click the Start button and choose Task Manager.

  11. Navigate to the Processes tab.

  12. Select the Windows Explorer process.

    Windows 11 restart explorer service

  13. Click the Restart button.

After executing these steps, your Windows 11 Taskbar should now be repositioned according to your selected settings.

While it is still possible to adjust the Taskbar location, this feature is not officially supported in Windows 11, meaning results may vary.

Update December 16, 2025: This article has been revised for accuracy and to reflect the latest procedural changes.

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