Windows 11 Quick Launch Jun 2026

: To remove an item, right-click on it while in the expanded Quick Launch view and select "Unpin from Quick Launch".

Microsoft intended for taskbar pinning to replace the Quick Launch folder. If you want to achieve a similar one-click launch experience without installing extra software, you can optimize the default Windows 11 taskbar. Step 1: Pin Your Essential Apps

While Microsoft removed native support for the traditional Quick Launch bar, you can still replicate this workflow. Below is a comprehensive guide to bringing back Quick Launch functionality in Windows 11 using native workarounds and third-party tools. Why Use Quick Launch in Windows 11? windows 11 quick launch

Change its icon to something distinct by right-clicking it, selecting > Shortcut tab > Change Icon . Method 2: Rebuilding the Legacy Taskbar via Retrobar

Keeps the main taskbar cleaner by separating active apps from frequently used shortcuts. : To remove an item, right-click on it

Run the executable. Your desktop background and taskbar will momentarily disappear and restart. Step 2: Switch to the Classic Taskbar

While the isn't available "out of the box," it isn't dead. Whether you choose to adapt to the new Pinned Apps style or use a tool like ExplorerPatcher to force the old ways back, you can still maintain a high-speed workflow. Step 1: Pin Your Essential Apps While Microsoft

Best practices for a Quick Launch setup

Because Windows 11 does not allow you to anchor custom folders directly onto the taskbar as a toolbar anymore, the most efficient native way to use this folder is by creating a Desktop toolbar or pinning the folder to your Quick Access menu. To pin it for fast access: Open File Explorer ( Windows Key + E ). Right-click the folder you opened in Step 1.

The default Quick Launch folder path %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch works on most Windows 11 systems. If the folder doesn't exist, create it manually by navigating to %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer in File Explorer and creating a new folder named "Quick Launch." You can also use the command shell:quick launch in the Run dialog ( Win + R ) to open this folder directly.