Windows 11, while not as dramatically different as its predecessor Windows 8, does introduce some user interface changes that may leave some users searching for familiarity. Notably, the right-click context menu for files has undergone a transformation, streamlining options for a more concise experience.
In Windows 10, right-clicking a file unveiled a plethora of choices, including renaming, deleting, opening, opening with, sending to, and more. Microsoft, however, deemed this extensive menu overwhelming and possibly containing redundant features not universally utilized.
Enter the revamped context menus in Windows 11, designed to be more compact and aligned with features believed to be commonly used. Microsoft explains that this alteration was prompted by the menu’s growth over two decades, evolving haphazardly since its introduction with Windows XP.
Should you find yourself yearning for the familiarity of the previous context menus, fear not. The method outlined below offers a means to revert to the former menus in a more lasting manner. Be advised that this technique involves editing your computer’s registry, so proceed with caution if you’re unfamiliar or uncomfortable with this process. However, rest assured, the steps are straightforward and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Method 2: Registry Edit
- Initiate the process by clicking on the Start button.
- Type “regedit” and then press Enter.
- On the left-hand navigation bar, locate and select HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID.
- Upon finding the CLSID folder, right-click on it, hover over “New,” and then select “Key.”
- Name the new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} and press Enter.
- Within the newly created key, right-click again and choose “New,” then select “Key.”
- This time, name the new key InprocServer32 and press Enter.
- Double-click on the (Default) registry entry and erase its value, leaving it blank. Press Enter to confirm.
- Close the registry editor to conclude the editing process.
- To implement the changes, restart your computer. Upon reboot, the familiar old context menus should be restored.
Should you later decide to revert to the updated context menus, follow the same steps as above, but locate and delete the {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} key you created in step 5. Take care to select the appropriate key to avoid unintended consequences. Following this, restart your computer, and the new context menus will once again take center stage.
Conclusion :
Windows 11 brings a fresh take on context menus, aiming for efficiency and streamlined options. However, for those who prefer the tried-and-true approach, the registry edit method provides a simple means to restore the classic context menus. Remember, as with any system modification, exercise caution and ensure you understand the process before proceeding.