Windows 11 Quick Launch !free! Jun 2026

ExplorerPatcher is a free, open-source tool that restores the Windows 10 taskbar functionality to Windows 11.

If you are nostalgic and want the exact pre-Windows 11 behavior (a double-chevron >> expandable menu or a fixed row of tiny icons), follow this registry hack.

April 2026 Tested on: Windows 11 23H2 (Build 22631) and 24H2 (Build 26100)

Have you successfully restored Quick Launch on Windows 11? Which method worked for you? Let us know in the comments below (and don’t forget to backup your data before editing the registry!) windows 11 quick launch

Are you comfortable using like Windhawk?

Open the program you want to use as a quick-launch shortcut. Right-click its icon on the taskbar. Select .

Right-click in the folder, select > Shortcut , and browse for the app you want to launch. Add the Quick Launch Toolbar to the Taskbar in Windows 11 ExplorerPatcher is a free, open-source tool that restores

Repeat this process for all your essential apps, web links, or folders. Step 3: Access the Folder via File Explorer or the Desktop

This system worked flawlessly for years, but Microsoft’s design philosophy shifted significantly with the launch of . The company introduced "pinning" applications directly to the taskbar, which they saw as a more modern and integrated evolution of the Quick Launch concept. This effectively replaced the separate Quick Launch area as the primary method for launching apps.

Method 2: Restoring Genuine Quick Launch via ExplorerPatcher (Recommended) Which method worked for you

If you are typing manually, you can enable a smartphone-style predictive text bar that appears above your cursor. Settings > Time & language > Typing Show text suggestions when typing on the physical keyboard 4. Reusable Text Snippets (AutoText)

Windows 11 uses the as the primary launcher. Here is how to make it feel like the classic Quick Launch: