Want to Bring Back the Classic Right-Click Menu in Windows 11? Here's How!
Have you upgraded to Windows 11 and are missing the classic right-click menu? The new streamlined menu, while modern, can feel less intuitive for some users who are accustomed to the familiar layout of the older versions. Don't worry, you can easily revert back to the classic right-click experience!
Here's a breakdown of why the new menu exists, why you might prefer the classic, and how to switch back:
Why the New Windows 11 Right-Click Menu?
Microsoft introduced the new menu in Windows 11 as part of a broader effort to modernize the operating system's look and feel. It's designed to be cleaner and more visually appealing, with a focus on frequently used options. However, this change has led to some frustration among users who miss the comprehensive options available in the traditional menu.
What's Missing in the New Menu?
The new Windows 11 right-click menu simplifies the options by placing less frequently used commands into a "Show More Options" submenu. This can be a bit frustrating if you frequently need access to these options. For example, commands like "Open with" or "Properties" are now hidden, requiring an extra click.
The Classic Right-Click Menu: A Familiar Friend
Many users, especially those accustomed to the long-standing Windows experience, find the classic right-click menu to be more intuitive. It offered a single, expansive menu with all options readily available. This was particularly helpful for users who relied on these commands regularly.
How to Get Your Classic Right-Click Menu Back
Here's how to restore the classic right-click menu in Windows 11:
- Open the Registry Editor: Search for "regedit" in the Windows search bar and open it.
- Navigate to the Correct Key: In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\CLASSES\CLSID. - Locate and Delete the Key: Look for a key named
"{86CA1AA0-34AA-4E8D-9897-D59C1E81F243}". Right-click on this key and select "Delete". - Close the Registry Editor: Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Important Note: Editing the registry can be risky if you're not careful. Make sure you back up your registry before making any changes.
Enjoying the Classic Right-Click Experience
After restarting your computer, you'll notice that your right-click menus have reverted back to the classic layout. All your familiar options will be readily available again, without the need for additional clicks or submenus.
Conclusion
While the new Windows 11 right-click menu might be appealing to some, many users prefer the familiar and comprehensive nature of the classic menu. Fortunately, restoring the classic right-click menu is a simple process that involves making a minor edit to the registry. With these steps, you can enjoy the right-click menu you know and love, offering convenience and ease of access to all the commands you need.