How to Align the Taskbar Icon (Start) in the Left in Windows 11
Windows
Windows 11 introduced a new design language, including a centered taskbar and Start menu. While this change has been welcomed by many, some users prefer the traditional left-aligned taskbar icon and Start menu. Fortunately, Microsoft has provided an option to move the taskbar icons to the left. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: Using the Taskbar Settings
- Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings from the context menu.
- In the Taskbar settings window, expand the Taskbar behaviours and then toggle the switch under Taskbar alignment to the Left position.
- Close the window, and your taskbar icons will now be aligned to the left.
Method 2: Using the Windows Registry
- Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
- Type regedit and press Enter to open the Windows Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- Right-click on the Advanced key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new value TaskbarAl and press Enter.
- Double-click the TaskbarAl value and set its value data to 0.
- Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.
After applying either of these methods, your taskbar icons, including the Start menu, will be aligned to the left, giving you a more traditional Windows experience.
Note: These methods only change the alignment of the taskbar icons and do not affect the position of the taskbar itself, which remains at the bottom of the screen.