If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you might have noticed something missing when you right-click in File Explorer or on the desktop. The classic context menu, a staple of Windows navigation and productivity, seems to have vanished, replaced by a simplified version that lacks some of the familiar options and shortcuts. For many users, this change can be frustrating, especially if you rely on certain applications or commands that are no longer immediately accessible.
The good news, however, is that there’s a workaround to bring back the classic context menu you know and love. While Windows 11 was designed with simplicity and a modern interface in mind, the developers have left avenues open for customisation and tweaking to cater to the diverse needs of its user base.
To restore the classic context menu functionality, this can be done by running the following command from an elevated command prompt.
reg.exe add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32" /f /ve
Reboot to finalise changes or restart Windows Explorer:
taskkill /f /im explorer.exe
start explorer.exe
To revert the Windows 11 context menu back to it’s original style:
reg.exe delete "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}" /f
Why is this workaround so important? Beyond just personal preference, the classic context menu offers quicker access to many tools and functions that power users and professionals rely on. Having these options at your fingertips can significantly enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow.
While it’s understandable that Microsoft wants to move forward with a sleeker, more unified design across its operating system, it’s also crucial that users have the flexibility to customise their experience to suit their needs. Our video acknowledges this balance, providing a practical solution that respects the new direction of Windows 11 while restoring functionality that many users miss.
So, if you’re among those frustrated by the missing classic context menu in Windows 11, our video is here to help. We’ll show you how to get the best of both worlds: a modern operating system with the classic functionalities you don’t want to live without. Check out the video to reclaim control over your Windows 11 experience and make your computer work for you, not the other way around.
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