The evolution of the Windows operating system continues to bring forth a myriad of new features and enhancements tailored for a modern user experience. With Windows 11, Microsoft has embarked on a transformative journey, refining numerous aspects that users have grown accustomed to over the years. Navigating this new terrain may require some acclimatization, especially given the streamlined approach Microsoft has taken with the taskbar and the Start menu. One noticeable change is the absence of the familiar “Show Desktop” button, traditionally located on the far right of the taskbar. This handy feature, which grants users a quick escape from the bustling activity on their screens to a tranquil desktop view, might be elusive to some in its new avatar. But fear not! In this risewindows guide, we delve deep into the steps to enable or disable the Show Desktop option on the Windows 11 taskbar, ensuring you remain in control of your desktop experience.
How to Enable or Disable the Show Desktop Button using the Settings app?
To turn on/off the “show desktop” button on the taskbar, use the following steps:-
Step 1. Firstly, open Windows Settings by pressing the Windows + I keys combination.
Step 2. Select the Personalization category from the left sidebar.
Step 3. Then, click on the Taskbar option.
Step 4. After that, please scroll down to the bottom of the Taskbar Settings pane and click the Taskbar behaviors header to expand its contents.
Step 5. Lastly, check or uncheck the option “Select the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop.” to enable or disable this feature.
That’s it.
How to Use the Registry Editor to Turn On or Off the Show Desktop Button?
To enable or disable the “Show Desktop” button on the Windows 11 taskbar, do the following:-
Step 1. First, click on the Windows + R keys combination to open the Run dialog box.
Step 2. Now, type the following and then hit Enter from the keyboard to open the Registry Editor window:-
regedit
Step 3. When the Registry Editor window opens, browse to the following key from the left sidebar:-
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Step 4. Next, on the right side of the “Advanced” folder, locate the TaskbarSD and then double-click on it to modify its “Value data.” Set the following value:-
- 0 – Disables the “Show Desktop” option.
- 1 – Enables the “Show Desktop” option.
Finally, click the OK button.
Once you perform the above steps, “Show Desktop” will appear/disappear immediately according to your needs when you hover the mouse over the far corner of the Windows 11 Taskbar. No need to restart your computer to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Windows 11, in its pursuit of modernity, has made several alterations to the user experience, which might bewilder some long-time users. One such change is the relocation and modification of the “Show Desktop” button. However, with the above guides, users can effortlessly enable or disable this feature either via the Settings app or the Registry Editor. Microsoft’s intention, it seems, is to offer a sleeker, more efficient interface, and with these steps, you can customize it to better fit your preferences.
