Windows 11 brought a fresh and modern interface to the Windows platform, complete with a centered taskbar, rounded corners, and a more cohesive design language. However, for users who prefer a vertical taskbar—either on the left or right side of the screen—the transition hasn’t been quite so smooth. Microsoft removed native support for taskbar movement, leaving many long-time users disappointed and searching for workarounds.

TL;DR: Windows 11 no longer allows you to move the taskbar natively to the left or right side of the screen. However, you can achieve a vertical taskbar using third-party tools like ExplorerPatcher, StartAllBack, or by tweaking your system’s registry—though the latter comes with risks. These methods let you simulate the classic Windows experience and regain control over your workflow layout. Read on to see step-by-step instructions for each approach.

Why Use a Vertical Taskbar?

Before diving into the “how”, let’s look at the “why”. A vertical taskbar, placed on the left or right side of your screen, has a surprising number of benefits:

  • Better Utilization of Screen Real Estate: Modern displays are wider than they are tall. With a vertical taskbar, you maximize vertical space, which is more useful for browsing, reading, coding, and document editing.
  • Improved Multitasking: Apps and browser tabs are usually aligned horizontally. A vertical taskbar keeps them from being squeezed.
  • Preference and Accessibility: Some users simply prefer the muscle memory and organization of a sidebar layout from older Windows operating systems.

Method 1: Using ExplorerPatcher

ExplorerPatcher is a free and powerful open-source tool that restores some legacy Windows taskbar functionalities in Windows 11, including the ability to move the taskbar to the sides.

Steps:

  1. Download ExplorerPatcher from GitHub.
  2. Install the software. The process is automatic and installs quickly.
  3. After installation, right-click the taskbar and go to Properties.
  4. In the configuration window, look for the “Taskbar” section.
  5. Set your desired taskbar position—left or right.
  6. Click Restart File Explorer to apply changes.

Note: You can also adjust icons, behavior, and style options to better mimic Windows 10 or earlier versions.

Method 2: Using StartAllBack

StartAllBack is a paid utility (with a free trial) tailored for people who miss classic Windows features. It goes even beyond what ExplorerPatcher offers in terms of customization and aesthetic tuning.

Steps:

  1. Download and install StartAllBack.
  2. Open the StartAllBack settings from your Start Menu or taskbar.
  3. Navigate to the Taskbar customization tab.
  4. Choose your preferred layout and then drag the taskbar to the left or right of the screen.
  5. Adjust the taskbar styling to your preference.

StartAllBack gives you precise control over the aesthetics and functionality of the taskbar. Beyond just moving the taskbar, it allows transparency, icon sizing, and touch responsiveness.

Method 3: Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

This method is not officially supported by Microsoft and involves editing the Windows registry. It’s not recommended unless you’re experienced with Windows internals and are okay with potential bugs or system instability.

Warning:

Making incorrect changes to the Registry can result in serious system issues. Always back up your registry and create a system restore point before proceeding.

Steps (May No Longer Work After Recent Updates):

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, then type regedit and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StuckRects3
  3. In the right pane, double-click the value named Settings.
  4. In the Binary Editor window, locate the fifth row, second column. This byte controls taskbar position:
    • 00 – Bottom
    • 01 – Left
    • 02 – Top
    • 03 – Right
  5. Change this value accordingly (e.g., to 01 for left taskbar).
  6. Click OK, close Registry Editor, then restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager.

While this method used to work in early versions of Windows 11, Microsoft has since hardened the OS, so it may no longer be effective or safe. Proceed with caution and consider using one of the more stable tools mentioned above.

What You Gain with a Vertical Taskbar

Installing a vertical taskbar setup brings several workflow benefits:

  • More Taskbar Space: Great for users who keep many apps open simultaneously.
  • Cleaner Screen Layout: Keeps your app window height maximized, especially useful for touch and stylus users on 2-in-1 devices.
  • Contextual Efficiency: Easier cursor navigation if screens are stacked left-to-right in multi-monitor setups.

Whether you’re a power user or someone who just likes the classic Windows flexibility, these tweaks can prove to be incredibly valuable.

Limitations of Vertical Taskbars on Windows 11

While tools like ExplorerPatcher and StartAllBack do a great job, there are some caveats:

  • Native Limitations: Windows 11 itself does not officially support moving the taskbar vertically. Any solution is essentially a workaround or patch.
  • Bug Risks: With new Windows updates, tools may temporarily break or lose some features.
  • Limited Drag-and-Drop: Vertical taskbars may not support full drag-and-drop or live thumbnail previews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will Microsoft bring back vertical taskbars officially?

A: As of mid-2024, Microsoft has not announced plans to restore full vertical taskbar functionality. The community relies heavily on third-party solutions for now.

Q: Is it safe to use ExplorerPatcher or StartAllBack?

A: Generally yes, especially ExplorerPatcher due to its open-source nature. However, always download from official sources and read reviews. Use System Restore points as a precaution.

Q: Can I use both ExplorerPatcher and StartAllBack together?

A: This is not recommended. These tools both modify the same system components, which can lead to conflicts and instability.

Q: Do vertical taskbars work well with multiple monitors?

A: Yes, especially if your displays are stacked horizontally. In fact, vertical taskbars can greatly improve workflow in such environments.

Conclusion

Although Windows 11 does not advertise vertical taskbar support, you can still craft your ideal setup using third-party tools or registry edits. Tools like ExplorerPatcher and StartAllBack offer user-friendly ways to reposition the taskbar, replicate classic workflows, and boost productivity. Whether you’re nostalgic for the past or simply looking for a more efficient screen layout, a vertical taskbar can breathe new life into your Windows 11 experience.

Remember, while tinkering can be rewarding, always take precautions to back up your system and data. The right configuration is just a few clicks away—happy customizing!