Windows 11 is the newest version of Microsoft’s Windows operating system. While it should be familiar to former Windows 10 users, there are some notable differences.

Taskbar

• Centered features: One of the most noticeable changes with Windows 11 is the location of the Start menu, which is now in the center of the taskbar. The Search box and taskbar icons are also centered. However, this can be customized by following these steps:

1. 1. Right-click the taskbar.
   2. Select Taskbar settings.
   3. Click Taskbar behaviors to expand the settings.
   4. Click the Taskbar alignment dropdown.
   5. Select Left.

• Locked to bottom: The taskbar can no longer be moved to other locations on the screen. While it is permanently locked to the bottom, it can be hidden by following these steps:

1. 1. Right-click the taskbar.
   2. Select Taskbar settings.
   3. Click Taskbar behaviors to expand the settings.
   4. Check the box next to Automatically hide the taskbar.

• No drag and drop: Windows 11 no longer allows users to drag and drop files or apps to the taskbar.

Start Menu

The Start menu has been redesigned to give quick access to apps, settings and files. Here are the four main sections:

• Search: Quickly find what you need by searching. You can also do this from the Search box on the taskbar.
• Pinned: The Pinned section can be customized by pinning frequently used apps and folders. To see all installed apps, click All.
• Recommended: The Recommended section populates with recently opened files as well as new and frequently used apps.
• Account: Account settings are now on the bottom-left of the Start menu.
• Power: Power settings are now on the bottom-right of the Start menu.

Quick Settings and Notifications

The Action Center from Windows 10 has been separated into Quick Settings and Notifications.

• Quick Settings: Located on the right of the taskbar, Quick Settings gives access to common settings like Wi-Fi, volume and screen brightness. These can be customized by following these steps:

1. 1. Click Quick Settings.
   2. Click Edit quick settings pencil icon.
   3. To unpin a setting, click the Unpin icon.
   4. To add a setting, click Add and select a setting.

• Notifications: Accessed by clicking the time and date on the right of the taskbar, notifications are located above the calendar. Notifications alert you about system information, app activity and more.

File Explorer

• Compact ribbon: The File Explorer ribbon has been streamlined to focus on frequently used actions and uses smaller icons without text. To see more settings, click the See more three dots icon.

• Tabs: File Explorer now allows you to group windows into tabs, similar to tabs in a browser.

Right-click Menu

The right-click menu has been streamlined to focus on frequently used actions. To see the full menu:

1. Right click.
2. Select Show more options.

OR

1. Right click and hold Shift.