Windows taskbar customization

Author: w | 2025-04-24

windows-taskbar productivity-tools windows-tools windows-ui desktop-customization windows-customization taskbarx windows-enhancement windows-ui-improvement taskbar-customization taskbar-enhancement windows-toolstaskbar-tools taskbar-center taskbar-configurator taskbar-utility taskbar-tweaks taskbar-modification 5 Ways to Customize Windows 11 Taskbar Free - 2025 windows 10 taskbar windows 10 customization how to customize your windows taskbar windows 11 taskbar

Customizing Windows 7 : Customize the Taskbar

Let’s learn how to deploy Start Menu Taskbar custom layout settings using Intune. This is a quick post to help you to learn more about Intune device restriction policies. You can customize the Start Menu and Taskbar layout with the help of this post.As a first step, you have to prepare an XML file as per your requirement, and once the XML file is prepared, you can follow the steps mentioned below to deploy a custom configuration using Intune. The customization of the Start menu and taskbar for Windows 11 is going to be a bit different. I feel customization of the start menu is straightforward as per my testing. But, the taskbar customization is a bit tricky in my experience. You can read more about this at the end of this post about my test results. Windows 11 Start Menu Layout customization options using JSON file are updated in the below post.Customize Windows 11 Start Menu Layout Settings Using IntuneWindows 11 Start Menu Taskbar Alignment Options | How To Align Center Or LeftHow To Change The Taskbar Size In Windows 11 Easiest Method Choose Windows 11 Folders To Appear On Start Next To The Power Button How To CustomizeHow to Prepare XML to Customize Start Menu & TaskbarThis is the most important and time-consuming task in this exercise. You need to prepare an XML file to deploy these custom settings. The following are some of the important points that you need to be careful about.Deploy Start Menu Taskbar Custom Layout Settings using Intune Cloud PCAlways use Notepad++ to edit/develope the XML files.Remove code from sample files that you get from Mcirosoft docs. This line of code won’t work with Intune policies.You will need to have one XML for both start menu and taskbar layout customizations. You can’t deploy two different XML file for the same policy using Intune.If you already deployed Start menu layout XML and you have to deploy taskbar layout now, then you will have to amend the same policy to include taskbar customization XML code as well.Try to use StartLayoutCollection PinListPlacement=”Replace” & CustomTaskbarLayoutCollection PinListPlacement=”Replace” to replace the default layouts. Otherwise, you will have default layout and the custom layouts.I have taken the start menu customization code from the Microsoft document. Or you can use the following PowerShell command.You can take the sample XML for taskbar layout sample from the Microsoft docs site.You can use easy way to export the existing start menu layout using the folloing PS command.Export-StartLayout -UseDesktopApplicationID -Path layout.xmlExport-StartLayout –path .xmlThe following is the sample XML code for the customization. I have shared different sets of options in the code to configure custom layouts.DesktopApplicationLinkPath – You need use shortcut links with this option (.lnk).AppUserModelID How to Get Clear Taskbar in Windows 11If you’re looking to get a clear taskbar in Windows 11, it’s actually quite simple. By tweaking a few settings, you can achieve a transparent or semi-transparent taskbar, making your desktop look sleek and modern. Here, we’ll walk you through the steps to get that polished look.Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make your Windows 11 taskbar clear. This will involve accessing the Windows settings and making a couple of adjustments.Step 1: Open SettingsFirst, click on the Start menu and select the Settings icon.The Settings icon looks like a little gear. You can also press Win + I to open the Settings directly. This is where you’ll find most of Windows 11’s customization options.Step 2: Navigate to PersonalizationIn the Settings window, click on "Personalization."Once you’re in the Personalization section, you’ll see a bunch of options for changing the look and feel of Windows. This is where you’ll make your taskbar transparent.Step 3: Select ColorsWithin the Personalization menu, click on "Colors."In the Colors section, you’ll find various settings related to the color scheme of Windows 11. This is where you can turn on transparency effects.Step 4: Enable Transparency EffectsScroll down to find the "Transparency effects" toggle and switch it on.Turning on transparency effects will make elements like the taskbar, Start menu, and other windows semi-transparent. This gives your desktop a modern and clean appearance.Step 5: Adjust Taskbar SettingsGo back to the Personalization menu and click on "Taskbar."Sometimes, even after enabling transparency, the taskbar might not look as clear as you want. Additional settings in the Taskbar menu can help you further customize its appearance.What Happens NextAfter completing these steps, your taskbar should become clear or semi-transparent, giving your desktop a sleek and modern look. You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take full effect.Tips for Clear Taskbar in Windows 11Experiment with Colors: Sometimes, the color of your taskbar can affect how clear it looks. Try different accent colors to find the one that suits you best.Check Performance: Transparency effects can use more system resources. If your PC is lagging, you might want to turn off some animations.Third-Party Tools: There are third-party applications that offer more customization options for the Windows taskbar.Regular Updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, updates bring new customization features.Backup Settings: Before making major changes, it’s always a good idea to back

7 Taskbar Tweaker: Customize the Windows taskbar with

How to Make Taskbar Icons Smaller in Windows 11Making taskbar icons smaller in Windows 11 can help free up screen space and give your desktop a cleaner look. It’s a simple process that can be done through a few tweaks in your system settings. Here’s a quick overview: First, open the Settings app, navigate to Personalization, select Taskbar, and adjust the taskbar size setting to make the icons smaller. Now, let’s break it down step-by-step.How to Make Taskbar Icons Smaller in Windows 11This section will guide you through step-by-step instructions on how to make your taskbar icons smaller in Windows 11.Step 1: Open SettingsOpen the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I simultaneously.To find the Settings app, you can also click the Start button and type "Settings" into the search bar. This app controls most of your computer’s configurations.Step 2: Navigate to PersonalizationIn the Settings window, click on "Personalization" from the list of options on the left side.The Personalization section is where you can tweak the look and feel of your Windows interface. This includes background, colors, and most importantly for us, the taskbar.Step 3: Select TaskbarWithin Personalization, scroll down and click on the "Taskbar" option.This section allows you to customize your taskbar. You can pin apps, auto-hide the taskbar, and adjust other settings that affect its appearance.Step 4: Open Taskbar BehaviorsScroll down to find "Taskbar behaviors" and click to expand it.Under Taskbar behaviors, you can adjust various settings, including how taskbar icons are displayed. This is where you’ll find the option to make icons smaller.Step 5: Adjust Taskbar SizeUnder Taskbar behaviors, find the "Taskbar size" dropdown menu and select "Small."Choosing "Small" will reduce the size of your taskbar icons, freeing up space and giving your desktop a more streamlined appearance.Now that you’ve completed these steps, you should see that your taskbar icons are smaller. This change takes effect immediately, giving you a more compact and organized desktop environment.Tips for Making Taskbar Icons Smaller in Windows 11Backup Settings: Before making changes, consider backing up your current settings. This can help you revert back if needed.Explore Other Taskbar Settings: Besides icon size, explore other customization options like auto-hide and taskbar alignment.Use Registry for More Control: For advanced users, editing the registry can provide more granular control over the taskbar size.Third-Party Tools: Several third-party applications can offer additional customization options for the taskbar.Keep Windows Updated: Ensure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version to have the most customization options available.Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I customize the taskbar icons without making them smaller?Yes, you can customize taskbar icons by pinning your favorite apps, auto-hiding the taskbar, or changing its position on the screen without altering their size.Will making icons smaller affect their functionality?No, reducing the icon size only changes their appearance. All functions remain the same.Can I revert back to the original icon size?Yes, you can revert back by following the same steps and selecting the "Medium" or "Large" option in the taskbar size settings.Do I need to restart my. windows-taskbar productivity-tools windows-tools windows-ui desktop-customization windows-customization taskbarx windows-enhancement windows-ui-improvement taskbar-customization taskbar-enhancement windows-toolstaskbar-tools taskbar-center taskbar-configurator taskbar-utility taskbar-tweaks taskbar-modification

Customize Windows 10 Taskbar with 7 Taskbar

Summary TranslucentTB is a free app that offers different transparency effects for the taskbar, including a totally clear look. Start11 v2 provides extensive customization options for the taskbar and Start menu, with a $7 lifetime license. StartAllBack is a cheaper alternative to Start11, offering similar taskbar customization options and a Windows 7-like Start menu design. ObjectDock is another great option that makes your taskbar look more like the macOS dock. There are plenty of things you can do to customize a Windows 11 PC, even without using any third-party apps. But one thing you can't do, despite being a fairly popular request, is make your taskbar completely transparent. In fact, Windows 11 doesn't let you adjust the transparency of the taskbar at all, which is a bit of a bummer. Thankfully, developers have stepped up to the plate to bring this capability to Windows 11, and there are a few alternatives if you want to make your Windows 11 desktop feel a bit better. Here are some of our recommendations if you want to get a transparent taskbar on Windows 11. Related You can make Windows 11 feel like home — here's how to customize it Windows 11 is a great operating system, but not everyone has to like how it looks out of the box. Here's how you can change TranslucentTB It's all in the name TranslucentTB is a fairly self-explanatory name for this app, which is arguably the best option you can get if all you want is About TranslucentTBTranslucentTB is a lightweight program to customize Your Windows Taskbar. It allows you to customize the appearance of your Windows taskbar. With this simple app, you can make your taskbar clear, giving it a sleek, refined appearance.Key Features:1. Customization Options:The TranslucentTB settings menu offers a variety of customization options that allow you to achieve your desired look. You can choose to make your taskbar completely transparent or partially translucent. You can even adjust the color of your taskbar and give specific segments on the bar different styles to further personalize your desktop.2. Simplicity:One of the best things about TranslucentTB is its simplicity. The app is easy to install and even easier to use, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to achieve a more modern look for their Windows desktop. And because it's lightweight, it won't slow down your system or take up valuable resources.3. Clear, See-Through Effect:The clear, see-through effect that TranslucentTB provides can help elevate your desktop and provide a more immersive experience as you work. This program is perfect for those who wish to enhance the aesthetics of their desktop but don't want to use a heavy or complicated piece of software.In conclusion, TranslucentTB is an excellent tool for customizing the appearance of your Windows taskbar. It's lightweight, easy to use, and offers a range of customization options. Whether you choose to make your taskbar transparent or slightly translucent, you're sure to appreciate the refined look and feel that TranslucentTB provides. It's the perfect way to elevate your desktop experience and show off your personal style.Reviewed by Thomas P. LarsonShow MoreShow LessInformationUpdated onNov 28, 2023DeveloperTranslucentTBLanguagesEnglishTranslucentTB FAQWhat is TranslucentTB?TranslucentTB is a free and open-source utility for Windows that allows you to customize the appearance of the taskbar, including making it translucent.Can I set different transparency levels for different programs?Yes, you can set different transparency levels for different windows or programs by using the "Custom Windows" feature in the TranslucentTB settings.Does TranslucentTB work on Windows 7?No. TranslucentTB was designed exclusively for Windows 10. On older versions of Microsoft's operating system, this application will probably display an error.Does TranslucentTB work on Windows 11?Yes. Although TranslucentTB was developed specifically for Windows 10, it also works on Windows 11.How to download and Install TranslucentTB on Windows PCClick on the Download button to start downloading TranslucentTB for Windows.Open the .exe installation file in the Downloads folder and double click it.Follow the instructions in the pop-up window to install TranslucentTB on Windows PC.Now you can open and run TranslucentTB on Windows PC.

7 Taskbar Tweaker: Customize the Windows taskbar

Third-party apps to customize the taskbar further?Yes, there are several third-party applications available that offer additional customization options for your taskbar.SummaryRight-click taskbar, select "Taskbar settings."Click "Personalization" in settings.Scroll to and click "Taskbar."Choose "Never" for "Combine taskbar buttons."Close settings to apply changes.ConclusionCustomizing your Windows 11 taskbar by unstacking icons can transform the way you interact with your computer. It’s like cleaning up the clutter on your desk—suddenly, everything is within reach, and you know exactly where to find what you need. While the unstacked icons offer a more detailed view of open programs, they also provide a sense of control over your digital workspace.If you’re someone who thrives on organization and efficiency, unstacking icons is a small change that can make a big difference. It’s worth taking a few minutes to explore this feature and see how it fits into your daily routine. For those interested in even more customization, consider looking into additional taskbar settings or third-party tools that can further enhance your Windows 11 experience. Whatever your preference, the key is to tailor your setup so it works for you. Experiment with other settings, and don’t be afraid to try something new. After all, your computer should be an extension of your personal style and workflow. So, go ahead and unstack those icons on your Windows 11 taskbar—your future self will thank you!

Customize the Windows 11 Taskbar

The original settings.Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I move the taskbar to the top on Windows 11?Currently, Windows 11 does not support moving the taskbar to the top of the screen.Will moving the taskbar affect my icons?No, moving the taskbar will not affect your desktop icons. They will remain in their current locations.Can I move the taskbar back to the center?Yes, you can move the taskbar back to the center by changing the Taskbar alignment setting back to “Center.”Are there any third-party apps for more customization?Yes, there are third-party apps that offer more customization options for the taskbar in Windows 11.Does moving the taskbar affect performance?No, moving the taskbar does not affect the performance of your computer.SummaryOpen Settings.Navigate to Personalization.Select Taskbar.Open Taskbar behaviors.Change Taskbar alignment.ConclusionRepositioning the taskbar on Windows 11 is a straightforward task that can greatly enhance your desktop experience. By simply navigating through the Settings app and adjusting the taskbar alignment, you can have the taskbar exactly where you want it. This small change can make a big difference in your daily workflow, especially if you find the default center alignment inconvenient.It’s always a good idea to explore other settings and customizations available in Windows 11 to make the most out of your operating system. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, Microsoft’s support resources and various online communities can offer additional help.Feel free to revisit this guide whenever you need to make adjustments, and don’t forget to share these tips with friends or colleagues who might also benefit from a customized taskbar layout. Happy computing!Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.Read his full bio here.. windows-taskbar productivity-tools windows-tools windows-ui desktop-customization windows-customization taskbarx windows-enhancement windows-ui-improvement taskbar-customization taskbar-enhancement windows-toolstaskbar-tools taskbar-center taskbar-configurator taskbar-utility taskbar-tweaks taskbar-modification 5 Ways to Customize Windows 11 Taskbar Free - 2025 windows 10 taskbar windows 10 customization how to customize your windows taskbar windows 11 taskbar

How to Customize the Taskbar in Windows

How to Make Taskbar Transparent in Windows 11 is a fun customization that can personalize your computer experience. To make the taskbar transparent, you’ll need to dive into the Settings app and tweak some personalization options. Head to the Personalization section, then to Colors, and toggle on the Transparency effects. This quick change can be done in less than five minutes and will give your desktop a sleek, modern look. Follow along to learn how to make your Windows 11 taskbar blend seamlessly into the background.Making your Windows 11 taskbar transparent not only enhances its aesthetics but also gives your desktop a fresh and airy feel. Ready to get started? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you out.Step 1: Open SettingsTo start, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer.You can do this by clicking the Start menu and selecting the gear icon, or simply pressing Windows + I on your keyboard, which is a handy shortcut for accessing Settings.Step 2: Navigate to PersonalizationOnce in Settings, find and click on the Personalization section.Personalization is where all your customization magic happens. Here, you can change everything from your desktop background to your color theme.Step 3: Select ColorsNext, under Personalization, click on Colors.This section specifically deals with the color settings on your PC, including the transparency effects that will make your taskbar look super cool.Step 4: Toggle Transparency EffectsIn the Colors section, find the toggle labeled Transparency effects and switch it on.Turning this feature on allows certain elements, like the taskbar, to become see-through, adding a touch of elegance to your interface.Step 5: Check Your TaskbarAfter enabling transparency, check your taskbar to see the changes.Your taskbar should now have a subtle see-through effect. If it doesn’t, try restarting your computer to ensure the settings take effect.After you complete these steps, your taskbar should appear transparent, giving your desktop a cleaner, more refined look. This small change can significantly impact how you interact with your computer daily.Tips for Making Your Taskbar Transparent in Windows 11Consider adjusting your wallpaper to maximize the visual impact of the transparent taskbar.Use high-contrast themes if you have difficulty seeing transparent elements clearly.Keep your graphics driver updated for optimal performance and compatibility with transparency features.Experiment with different color schemes to find one that complements the transparency effect well.If you’re tech-savvy, explore third-party customization tools for more advanced transparency options.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhy isn’t my taskbar appearing transparent?Ensure that Transparency effects are toggled on in the Colors section under Personalization. You may also need to restart your system.Does transparency affect battery life?Yes, enabling transparency effects can slightly impact battery life on laptops, as it requires additional graphical processing.Can I make other parts of Windows 11 transparent?Certain elements, like the