How to Show the Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer
Want to get that old-school Menu Bar back in Windows 10 Explorer? Follow these simple steps. First, open File Explorer and hit the Alt key—this will make the Menu Bar appear temporarily. For a more permanent fix, you’ll need a quick registry tweak. Keep reading for the nitty-gritty details!
How to Show the Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensuring the Menu Bar displays permanently in Windows 10 Explorer.
Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
The Run dialog box is your doorway to many hidden Windows features. It allows you to quickly access different settings and tools by typing specific commands.
Step 2: Type "regedit" and Press Enter
In the Run box, type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that lets you view and change settings in your system’s registry. Proceed with caution here to avoid unintentional changes.
Step 3: Navigate to the Correct Registry Key
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftInternet ExplorerToolbarWebBrowser.
This path is like a folder structure, and each “folder” (or key) holds various settings for your system. Use the left pane to drill down to the WebBrowser key.
Step 4: Create a New DWORD Value
Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it “ITBar7Position.”
Adding a new DWORD value allows you to create a new setting. Naming it correctly is crucial for this tweak to work.
Step 5: Set the Value Data
Double-click “ITBar7Position” and set its Value data to 1. Click OK to save.
Changing the Value data to 1 tells Windows to always show the Menu Bar in File Explorer. You can change it back to 0 if you ever want to hide it again.
After these steps, the Menu Bar will be visible each time you open Windows 10 Explorer.
Tips for Showing the Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer
- Always back up your registry before making any changes. It’s a safety net if something goes wrong.
- Use the Alt key for a quick, temporary view of the Menu Bar without modifying the registry.
- If you’re not comfortable using the Registry Editor, you can use third-party tools that accomplish the same task.
- Ensure your Windows is updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- Familiarize yourself with the default settings before making changes to understand their impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer?
The Menu Bar provides quick access to options like File, Edit, View, and Tools, similar to older versions of Windows.
Can I revert back if I don’t like the changes?
Yes, you can delete the “ITBar7Position” DWORD value or set its Value data back to 0 to hide the Menu Bar.
Is it safe to modify the registry?
Yes, as long as you follow the steps carefully and back up the registry, you should be fine.
Can I use a third-party tool instead?
Yes, there are third-party tools available that can make these changes for you without manually editing the registry.
Will this affect other users on my computer?
No, changes made in HKEY_CURRENT_USER only impact the currently logged-in user.
Summary
- Open Run dialog box with Windows Key + R.
- Type "regedit" and press Enter.
- Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftInternet ExplorerToolbarWebBrowser.
- Right-click to create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named “ITBar7Position.”
- Set the Value data to 1 and click OK.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Showing the Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. Just remember, the registry is powerful but not forgiving—tread carefully. And if you’re ever in doubt, there’s always the trusty Alt key for quick access. Playing around with these settings can make your Windows experience a bit more tailored to your liking.
Feel free to explore other customization options available in the registry or through third-party tools. The internet is brimming with tips and tricks to make your computing experience more enjoyable. Now go ahead, try it out, and bring back that familiar Menu Bar in Windows 10 Explorer! Don’t forget to share your newfound knowledge with others who might find it useful. Happy computing!