Taskbar customization Archives

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Start11 vs OpenShell: Do you really need to pay to customize the Start menu?

The Windows 11 Start menu has received criticism for being rigid and unhelpful, prompting the development of alternatives like Start11 from Stardock and OpenShell. Start11 is a paid option that offers extensive customization with seven distinct Start menu styles, robust organizational features, and the ability to display File Explorer folders directly within the Start menu. It also allows for significant taskbar customization, including color, texture, and positioning options. In contrast, OpenShell focuses on restoring traditional Start menu designs, offering three major style options (Windows 95, XP, or 7) and around a dozen skins. While OpenShell provides granular control over settings, its design options may feel outdated compared to Start11. Start11 is recommended for users seeking a dynamic experience, while OpenShell serves those who prefer a nostalgic interface.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Winhance transforms Windows 11 (and Windows 10) into the bloat-free, faster operating system you always wanted

User sentiment towards Windows 11 has led to the development of third-party tools to enhance the experience. Talon can debloat Windows 11 with just two clicks, removing unnecessary pre-installed applications like Microsoft Edge, OneDrive, Copilot, and Clipchamp. Winhance is another tool that debloats and optimizes Windows 11, also compatible with Windows 10 (22H2). Winhance features include: - Software & Apps: - Install Software - Permanently Remove Windows Apps (e.g., Microsoft Edge, OneDrive, Copilot) - Optimize: - Set UAC Notification Level - Disable/Enable Windows Security Suite - Privacy Settings - Gaming Optimizations - Windows Updates - Power Settings - Scheduled Tasks - Windows Services - Customize: - Toggle Windows Dark or Light Mode - Taskbar Customization - Start Menu Settings - Explorer Options - Notification Preferences - Sound Settings - Accessibility Options - Search Configuration To use Winhance, users must open PowerShell as Administrator, confirm privileges, enable script execution, and run a specific command to download and execute the application from GitHub. Winhance has received significant updates since its release in February, with version 2 introducing UI/UX improvements, critical fixes, and bug resolutions, including issues with Windows Search and OneDrive folder cleanup. A demonstration video is available for viewing.

Winsage

September 22, 2024

5 Windows 11 settings you should change now

Windows 11 offers several quality-of-life settings that can enhance user experience: 1. Dark Mode: Switch from Light mode to Dark mode to reduce eye strain and improve aesthetics. 2. Taskbar Customization: Adjust the taskbar's icon alignment and position (left, right, or top) to suit personal preferences. 3. Hidden Files: Enable the option in File Explorer to view hidden files for better system management. 4. Widgets Panel: Remove the News & Weather panel by toggling off the widgets option in the Taskbar settings for a cleaner workspace. 5. Power Plan Settings: Select the appropriate Power Plan based on the device type; use Power Saving mode for laptops and High Performance mode for desktops. 6. Notifications and Ads: Disable personalized ads and suggestions by adjusting settings in the Privacy & Security tab and unchecking the notification option for tips and suggestions. 7. Start Menu Customization: Streamline the Start Menu by disabling settings for recently added apps, most used apps, and recommendations, while adding frequently used folders and programs for easier access.

Winsage

June 22, 2024

Windows 11 22635.970 adds new taskbar customization features

In Windows 11 build 22635.3790, users can customize the taskbar by disabling features such as the shortened date format and notification bell. These features can be enabled using the ViVeTool app, as shared by Twitter user @PhantomOfEarth.