If you’ve been getting a bit frustrated with Windows 11’s context menu and miss the "Show more options" feature, don’t worry. There’s a way to make sure the full context menu shows up all the time. In just a few easy steps, you can tweak your settings to bring back the classic menu you know and love.
How to Always Show More Options in Windows 11
In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the steps to always display the full context menu in Windows 11. By the end, your right-click menu will show more options by default, without needing an extra click.
Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
The Run dialog box is a handy tool where you can quickly open programs and files. This is where we will start our journey to tweak the context menu.
Step 2: Access the Registry Editor
Type regedit in the Run dialog box and press Enter.
The Registry Editor is where Windows keeps most of its important settings. Be careful here; changing the wrong things can mess up your system.
Step 3: Navigate to the Context Menu Settings
Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID.
In the Registry Editor, you need to find the right keys to change. This step is like finding the right drawer in a filing cabinet.
Step 4: Create a New Key
Right-click on CLSID, select New > Key, and name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.
Creating a new key is like adding a file folder to your drawer. This specific key will tell Windows to show more options in the context menu.
Step 5: Add Another Key
Right-click on the new key, select New > Key, and name it InprocServer32.
Adding another key inside the first one is like organizing your new folder. This key will hold the settings we need.
Step 6: Set the Default Value
Double-click the (Default) entry in InprocServer32 and set its value to an empty string.
Setting the default value to an empty string tells Windows not to change anything and to use the full context menu instead.
After completing these steps, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. The next time you right-click, you should see the full context menu without needing to select "Show more options."
Tips for Always Showing More Options in Windows 11
- Be cautious when using the Registry Editor; making unintended changes can harm your system.
- Back up your registry before making any changes. This way, you can restore it if something goes wrong.
- If you are uncomfortable editing the registry, consider using a third-party tool designed to tweak Windows settings.
- Remember to restart your computer after making changes in the Registry Editor to apply the new settings.
- Note that future Windows updates might reset or override these changes, so you may need to repeat the steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this change affect my system performance?
No, changing the context menu settings should not affect your system’s performance. It merely alters how the menu displays options.
Can I revert the changes if I don’t like them?
Yes, you can delete the key you created in the Registry Editor to revert the changes.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Editing the registry is safe if you follow the steps carefully. Just make sure not to change anything else.
What if I can’t find the CLSID folder?
If you can’t find the CLSID folder, double-check the spelling and make sure you are looking in the correct location within the Registry Editor.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, restarting your computer is necessary to apply the changes made in the Registry Editor.
Summary of Steps
- Open the Run dialog box with
Windows Key + R. - Type
regeditand press Enter to open the Registry Editor. - Navigate to
HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWARECLASSESCLSID. - Create a new key named
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. - Add another key inside it named
InprocServer32. - Set the
(Default)value to an empty string.
Conclusion
In a world where efficiency and simplicity are key, having quick access to all your right-click options can be a real time-saver. By following the steps outlined, you can tweak Windows 11 to always show more options in the context menu, making your workflow smoother and more efficient. Remember, while the Registry Editor is a powerful tool, it should be used with care. Always back up your registry before making any changes, and feel free to revert them if needed. If you found this guide helpful, there are many more tweaks and tips you can explore to make your Windows 11 experience even better. Happy computing!