Make Windows 11 Feel More Like Home with a Few Simple Tweaks

Upgrading to Windows 11 can be a bit of a shock for longtime Windows 10 users. One of the first things you'll probably notice? The Start menu has shifted to the center of the taskbar. If that feels unfamiliar or just plain awkward, don't worry—you can move it back to where it used to be.

Put the Start Menu Back on the Left

Miss the classic Windows look with the Start button on the far left? You can get it back in just a few clicks:

Press Windows + I to open Settings.

Type "Taskbar" in the search bar.

Click on "Taskbar Settings" from the results.

Scroll down to "Taskbar Behavior" and set "Taskbar Alignment" to Left.

And just like that, you're back to a more familiar layout.

Cut Out the Clutter from the Start Menu

Not a fan of those trending searches or news flashes cluttering up your Start menu? You're not alone. Thankfully, they're easy to turn off:

Head to Settings > Privacy & Security > Search Permissions.

Scroll down to More Settings.

Toggle off "Show Search Highlights."

Now your Start menu looks cleaner—and feels less like a newsfeed.

Tighten Up Your Privacy Settings

While you're poking around the settings, it's a good time to review your privacy preferences. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security, and check sections like:

Security

Windows Permissions

App Permissions

You'll be able to fine-tune what apps can access your data and how your device interacts with Microsoft services.

Swap Out Microsoft Edge (If You Want To)

Not a fan of Microsoft Edge? By default, it's set as the system browser—but you can change it:

Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps.

Select your preferred browser (you'll need to have it installed first).

Set it as the default for relevant file types and protocols.

Once that's done, links and pages will start opening in the browser of your choice.

Final Thoughts

Windows 11 comes with a fresh look, but that doesn't mean you have to leave your comfort zone. With just a few tweaks, you can bring back some of that Windows 10 familiarity while keeping all the benefits of Microsoft's latest OS. Happy customizing!