How a Windows Mod Tool Resolved Most Issues with Windows 11

Since its launch, I’ve been exploring the intricacies of Windows 11. While I have acclimated to many of its new user interface modifications, several design choices continue to frustrate me. While enhancements such as the revamped File Explorer, the upgraded Notepad, and the sleek Phone Link side panel deserve recognition, it’s disappointing that Microsoft has diminished the customization capabilities we’ve enjoyed for years.

Windows 11 shows a dearth of customization features for core elements like the Start menu, taskbar, notification center, and File Explorer. Thankfully, a dedicated community of developers has emerged to fill this gap, and one standout solution is Windhawk. This open-source platform for Windows modifications has effectively resolved my most significant grievances with Windows 11.

For my taste, the Windows 11 Start menu feels overly simplistic. While some users appreciate its minimalist aesthetic, I crave more customization options to personalize its appearance and functionality. The Recommended section tends to occupy unnecessary space, serving files I seldom access. Why can’t it align seamlessly with my desktop theme?

Fortunately, the Windows 11 Start Menu Styler empowers users to tailor their Start menu. You can eliminate the recommended section, revert to a classic Windows 10 style menu, or select from themes like FluentInspired or RosePine. There’s even an option to opt for a minimalist approach by reducing it to just a search bar.

Begin by installing Windhawk. Post-installation, open Windhawk, navigate to the Explorer tab at the top right, locate the Windows 11 Start Menu Styler mod, click Details, and then select Install.

Keep in mind that compatibility issues may arise with certain themes and the new Start menu layout. If you encounter any difficulties, you can disable the Start menu layout option in the mod settings. Additionally, you have the ability to fine-tune styles by incorporating custom JavaScript code.

Revamping Taskbar Height and Icon Dimensions

Customize Taskbar and Icon Dimensions

Windows 11 automatically scales taskbar icons down to 24 x 24 pixels, which can result in a blurry or overly small appearance, particularly on high-resolution displays. This size reduction makes it challenging to click on icons accurately.

The Taskbar height and icon size mod enables users to resize taskbar icons and adjust its height to preferred specifications. You can restore icon sizes to 32 x 32 pixels for clearer visuals or even larger dimensions if desired. Additionally, this mod allows for adjustments to button width, granting further control over the taskbar’s aesthetics.

For an enhanced visual experience, consider pairing this mod with the Windows 11 Taskbar Styler, which provides added features like transparency settings, blur effects, and hover animations. It also facilitates spacing adjustments and other stylistic refinements.

Improving Folder Size Visibility in File Explorer

Easily Access Folder Sizes

File Explorer showing folder size in the column

One peculiar aspect of File Explorer is its tendency to show file sizes in the details view but overlook folders entirely. To determine a folder’s size, users must right-click and select Properties, transforming what should be a quick task into a time-consuming one when disk space needs auditing.

The Better file sizes in Explorer details mod addresses this oversight by displaying folder sizes directly within their details column. It’s worth noting that this feature is disabled by default, so you will need to select one of the three available settings post-installation.

I recommend using the Enabled, calculated manually while holding the Shift key option to prevent file loading issues. You can view a folder’s size by refreshing the directory while holding the Shift key. There’s also an option for integration with the Everything search tool, which may require troubleshooting to function effectively.

Reintroducing a Vertical Taskbar

Positioning Your Taskbar Vertically

Windows 11 desktop with a vertical taskbar and Windhawk app open

One of the significant changes in Windows 11 is the removal of the ability to position the taskbar vertically. I personally prefer this configuration on my ultrawide monitor, as it provides ample vertical space for viewing documents and browsing the web.

The Vertical Taskbar for Windows 11 mod reinstates this functionality, allowing users to place the taskbar on either side of the screen. This mod also enables distinct positioning for primary and secondary monitors and lets you customize the width of the taskbar according to your preferences. For instance, I typically set mine at 58 pixels wide on the left side, creating a balance between visibility and space efficiency.

Enhancing Taskbar Label Options

Bringing Back Old Taskbar Label Flexibility

taskbar labels for Windows 11 Windhawk mode

Windows 11 limits taskbar button options to only two modes: combining and hiding labels or ungrouping with labels visible. But what if users want a hybrid approach, like buttons combined only when the taskbar is full?

The Taskbar Labels for Windows 11 mod adds the necessary versatility. You can ungroup taskbar buttons while hiding labels or keep buttons combined but reveal labels. Moreover, users can personalize the app indicators, progress styles, font sizes, and much more. Advanced settings allow for varied behaviors across different applications.

Explore Windhawk’s Extensive Configurations

In addition to these essential mods, I’ve implemented features that allow me to scroll through browser tabs using my mouse wheel, adjust volume with a simple scroll over the taskbar, and close applications directly from the taskbar with a middle-click. Windhawk even includes mods for scrolling through inactive windows and resizing them by dragging their edges.

Overall, Windhawk serves as a powerful utility that tackles the subtle shortcomings found in Windows 11—those features Microsoft either overlooked or intentionally removed. Although these features may have been deemed unnecessary for a majority of users, Windhawk successfully restores them and enhances the user experience significantly.

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