Why can't I move the task bar to the top of the screen with Windows 11?

Question

Why can't I move the task bar to the top of the screen with Windows 11?

O'Hara, Jen 30

I have a bad neck, so I always have the task bar at the top of the screen. Windows 11 was just pushed to my computer and I can't move it.

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Answer accepted by question author

Anonymous

Hi O'Hara, Jen,

Thanks for reaching out. Windows 11 no longer allows moving the taskbar to the top through the standard Settings menu. This change was part of the taskbar redesign, and Microsoft removed the option to simplify the interface and maintain consistency.

First, if you want the taskbar at the top, the built-in settings won’t help you’ll need a workaround. The most reliable method is using third-party tools like ExplorerPatcher or Start11, which restore classic taskbar functionality and let you move it to the top safely.

Second, older registry hacks (editing the StuckRects3 key) that worked in early builds are now broken in recent Windows 11 updates, so they’re not recommended unless you’re on an older version.

Last, if you prefer an official solution, you can submit feedback through the Feedback Hub app in Windows 11. Microsoft has acknowledged this as one of the most requested features, but there’s no timeline for its return.

If this helps, please mark the answer as accepted so others can find it too.

Best,
Carl

Amy McDevitt 5 Reputation points

2025-11-27T23:16:55.4033333+00:00

I want the feature back for ergonomic reasons.
O'Hara, Jen 30 Reputation points

2025-11-29T16:54:45.3166667+00:00

Thank you for your reply. This change is incredibly frustrating, as there are millions of people with neck issues who cannot tolerate the task bar residing at the bottom of the screen. It isn't just people like me with neck issues who prefer such. When my co-workers changed the task bar location, they all report a much better experience and less tension on their neck and shoulders.

1 additional answer

Amy McDevitt 5 Reputation points

2025-11-27T23:16:55.4033333+00:00

I want the feature back for ergonomic reasons.
O'Hara, Jen 30 Reputation points

2025-11-29T16:54:45.3166667+00:00

Thank you for your reply. This change is incredibly frustrating, as there are millions of people with neck issues who cannot tolerate the task bar residing at the bottom of the screen. It isn't just people like me with neck issues who prefer such. When my co-workers changed the task bar location, they all report a much better experience and less tension on their neck and shoulders.

Answer 1

Jo 0

I can't figure out why they removed this feature

It might be OK on a desktop where the screen might be raised a bit, but if you are working on notebook or tablet ...... which a lot of grown-ups are
My ipad has a much friendlier interface ergonomically
Bill Gates 'stole' xWindows -- but I suppose Apple did too
They will both argue that it was 'open source'

Why don't they ask Copilot to redesign it for them?

Stefan Blom 353.5K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator

2026-06-13T18:36:41.79+00:00

@Jo

Only Microsoft will be able to tell you why the taskbar options changed in Windows 11, and Microsoft developers do not read the Q&A forums.

I recommend that you post feedback through the Windows feedback hub.

The current Q&A thread is old and it will be closed.