How to Reclaim Control Over Your Windows 11 Start Menu: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Latest Updates

Introduction

If you've been frustrated by Windows 11's Start menu, take heart—Microsoft is finally rolling out a major interface shakeup that quietly brings back a feature many users have missed for years. The Start menu is changing, and the updates feel surprisingly thoughtful. This guide walks you through how to access and make the most of these changes, whether you're on an Insider build or the stable release.

What You Need

• A PC running Windows 11 (version 22H2 or later recommended)
• Access to Windows Update or the Windows Insider Program (optional for early preview)
• A stable internet connection
• Administrator privileges on your device
• Patience—some features are still in testing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Update Your Windows 11 Installation

Before you can experience the interface overhaul, ensure your system is running the latest build. Open Settings (press Win + I), navigate to Windows Update, and click Check for updates. Install all pending updates. If you're eager to try features before they hit general availability, consider joining the Windows Insider Program—choose the Dev Channel for the newest (and sometimes buggier) builds.

Step 2: Locate the New Start Menu Customization Options

Once updated, right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings. Alternatively, go to Settings > Personalization > Start. Here you'll find new toggles and sliders. Look for Show recently added apps, Show most used apps, and Show All apps list by default—this last option brings back the classic expanded view many users missed.

Step 3: Customize the Start Menu Layout

One of the biggest changes is the ability to resize the Start menu. Click and drag the top or side edges of the open Start menu to make it taller or wider. You can also pin more apps by right-clicking any app and selecting Pin to Start. Use the More pins option in settings to increase the number of pinned items from the default 18 to up to 48.

Step 4: Reorganize Pinned Apps and Folders

Drag and drop pinned apps to rearrange them. To create a folder, drag one app icon on top of another. Rename the folder by clicking on it and typing. This helps you keep your workspace tidy.

Step 5: Enable the Full-Screen Start Menu (Optional)

If you prefer the Windows 10-style full‑screen Start experience, go to Personalization > Start and toggle Use Start full screen to On. This setting is back by popular demand.

Step 6: Leverage the Improved All Apps List

The Start menu now supports a new All apps view that lists every installed program. Go to Settings > Personalization > Start and enable Show All apps list. You can also right‑click on the Start button and select All apps for quick access. The list is alphabetical with a jump‑to‑letter index for easier navigation.

Step 7: Fine‑Tune Taskbar Behaviors

Alongside Start changes, Microsoft has revived the ability to show taskbar labels for running apps (never combine mode) and to resize the taskbar. In Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, toggle Never combine taskbar buttons to On. You can also adjust taskbar size using the Taskbar behaviors dropdown.

Step 8: Explore Other Interface Tweaks

The update also includes system tray improvements (such as a redesigned volume mixer) and Widgets board enhancements. Spend some time in Settings > Personalization to explore all new options.

Step 9: Provide Feedback to Microsoft

Since these features are still in testing (especially on Insider builds), your feedback matters. Use the Feedback Hub (search for it in Start) to report bugs or suggest improvements. This helps Microsoft refine the final release.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Back up your settings before making major changes—use the Export feature in Settings > Personalization if available.
• If a feature seems missing, ensure you have the latest cumulative update. Some changes roll out gradually.
• On Insider builds, expect occasional glitches. Be prepared to roll back via Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates if needed.
• Try the Search bar in Settings to quickly find new options (e.g., “Start menu layout”).
• Microsoft is listening—sharing your positive or negative experience can influence future updates.