Windows 11 can automatically hide the taskbar when you are not using it. The current setting is under Taskbar behaviors, rather than the older “automatically hide in desktop mode” wording found in some Windows guides.
How to Automatically Hide the Windows 11 Taskbar
- Right-click an empty area of the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Expand Taskbar behaviors.
- Turn on Automatically hide the taskbar.
How to Show the Hidden Taskbar
Move the mouse pointer to the bottom edge of the screen. On a compatible touch device, touch the bottom edge. The taskbar should appear temporarily so you can use it.
Why Doesn’t the Taskbar Stay Hidden?
An application that needs attention, a notification, a menu, or another Windows interface can sometimes cause the taskbar to remain visible temporarily. Close open menus and check for apps requesting attention before assuming the auto-hide setting is broken.
Turn Auto-Hide Off Again
- Open Taskbar settings.
- Expand Taskbar behaviors.
- Turn off Automatically hide the taskbar.
Auto-Hide Is Not the Same as Removing the Taskbar
Windows is not deleting the taskbar. Auto-hide simply keeps it out of view until you move the pointer or touch the appropriate edge of the screen.
Summary
Right-click the taskbar, select Taskbar settings, expand Taskbar behaviors, and enable Automatically hide the taskbar. Move the pointer to the bottom edge whenever you need the taskbar again.