Start Menu and Taskbar

Owned by Ian Fleshman-Cooper
Last updated: Apr 11, 2024
3 min read

Start Menu:

1. Accessing the Start Menu:

To access the Start Menu, you can either click on the Start button located in the center of the taskbar or simply press the Windows key on your keyboard, as seen in the image below.

startmenu.PNG
Windows_11_key.jpg
Windows key

2. Layout and Customization:

The Start Menu in Windows 11 features a new centered layout, incorporating a mix of pinned apps, recommended apps, and widgets.

Customizing the Start Menu:

  • Right-click on any app to customize the Start Menu.

  • Choose options between Pin to Start or Unpin from Start.

  • Drag and drop apps to rearrange them.

Taskbar:

1. Icons and System Tray:

The Taskbar, situated at the bottom of the screen, contains icons for commonly used apps and system notifications.

The System Tray on the right side includes icons for volume, network, battery (for laptops), and other system functions.

Customizing Taskbar Icons:

  • Right-click on any icon to access the context menu.

    • Options includes:

      • Pin to Taskbar

      • Unpin from Taskbar

      • Settings

  • Drag and drop icons to rearrange them.

 

 

2. Notification Center:

  • Click on the System Tray icon to open the Notification Center.

  • The Notification Center displays recent notifications and provides quick access to settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Focus Sessions.

3. Search Bar:

  • Use the Search Bar on the Taskbar to quickly find files, apps, or information online.

  • Cortana, Microsoft's virtual assistant, is integrated into the search bar for voice commands and assistance.

4. Task View / Virtual Desktops:

  • The Task View button, located next to the search bar or accessible via pressing Win + Tab, allows you to view all open windows and access virtual desktops.

For more information on virtual desktops, visit the Virtual Desktops wiki page.

5. Widgets:

  • Click on the Widgets icon on the taskbar to access personalized information such as News, Weather, Calendar events, etc.

  • Customize widgets to display the information you find most relevant.

For more information on widgets, visit the Widgets wiki page.

6. App Store:

  • Click on the Microsoft Store icon on the taskbar to install a variety of apps to help with productivity.

  • The App Store is for installing apps external to base SPU provided applications.

For more information on widgets, visit the App Store wiki page.