Customizing the Start Menu and Taskbar in Windows 11
Draft Date: June 26, 2025
Author: Reece Towle
Summary/Overview
This article explains how to customize the Windows 11 Start menu and taskbar, including changing the Start menu alignment, removing default taskbar icons, and updating desktop and folder icons to match your preferences.
Prerequisites
Step-by-Step Instructions
Change Start Menu Alignment (Center to Left)
If you prefer the traditional left-aligned Start menu layout, you can easily switch from the centered default style:
Click the Start button and open the Settings app.
Navigate to Personalization > Taskbar.
Expand the Taskbar behaviors section.
Locate the Taskbar alignment dropdown menu.
Change the setting from Center to Left.
The change takes effect immediately.
Remove Default Taskbar Icons
To create a cleaner desktop look, remove unnecessary icons like Search, Task View, Widgets, and Chat:
Open Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
-
Under Taskbar items, disable the toggles for:
Search
Task View
Widgets
Chat
⚠ Note: Disabling the Search icon removes the clickable search box from the taskbar. You can still use the keyboard shortcut Windows + S to search.
Change Desktop and Folder Icons
For Desktop Icons:
Open Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop Icon Settings.
Select an icon to change (e.g., Recycle Bin), then click Change Icon.
Browse to your downloaded icon pack and select the desired icon.
For Folders and Shortcuts:
Right-click a folder or shortcut and select Properties.
Go to the Customize tab and click Change Icon.
Browse and apply your preferred icon.
Final Notes
Customizing your taskbar and icons not only makes your desktop cleaner but can also boost productivity by reducing visual clutter.
Version 1.0 | Last Updated: July 14, 2025 | Author: Reece Towle