How to Enable the Classic Context Menu in Windows 11: Methods Tips

Switching from the default Windows 11 context menu to the classic one can greatly enhance user experience, especially for those accustomed to the older version. In this guide, we will explore two methods to enable the classic context menu: using the Registry Editor and utilizing the Windows Terminal Command Prompt. These instructions are designed for Windows 11 users who require a more streamlined and familiar right-click menu experience.

Method 1: Enable the Classic Context Menu with Registry Editor

Enabling the classic context menu through the Registry Editor offers a more direct approach to customizing your Windows 11 environment. Follow these detailed steps to effectively make the switch.

Open the Start menu and type regedit to locate and open the Registry Editor. This powerful tool allows you to modify the Windows registry, which is essential for customizing system settings.

Navigate to the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClasses.

On the left-side pane, right-click on the Classes folder and choose New Key. Name this new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.

Right-click the newly created {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} key and select New Key. Name this new key InprocServer32.

Double-click the InprocServer32 key and leave the Value data field blank. Click OK to save your changes.

Close the Registry Editor.

Restart the Windows Explorer process or your entire PC to see the changes take effect.

Method 2: Enable the Classic Context Menu Using Windows Terminal Command Prompt

For those who prefer using the command line, the Windows Terminal Command Prompt offers a simpler and quicker method to enable the classic context menu.

Press the Windows X keys or right-click the Start menu icon to open the Windows Terminal. Select Administrator from the dropdown menu to ensure you have the necessary permissions.

Copy and paste the following command into the Windows Terminal:

reg add HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesCLSID{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}InprocServer32 /ve

Press Enter to execute the command. A confirmation message will appear if the command is successful.

Close the Windows Terminal.

Restart the Windows Explorer process or your PC to apply the changes.

Re-enable Windows 11’s Default Right-Click Context Menu

If you need to revert back to the default right-click menu in Windows 11, simply perform the opposite steps. Here’s how you can do it:

Delete the {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} key within the Classes folder using the Registry Editor.

Alternatively, you can run the following command in the Windows Terminal Command Prompt:

reg delete HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesCLSID{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}InprocServer32 /va

Close the Windows Terminal.

Restart the Windows Explorer process or your PC to see the changes take effect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use the classic context menu on Windows 10 as well?
Unfortunately, the classic context menu as described in this article is specific to Windows 11. For Windows 10, you may need to look for alternative methods such as using third-party tools or custom scripts.

Q: Is it safe to enable the classic context menu?
Yes, enabling the classic context menu in Windows 11 is generally safe if done through the Registry Editor or Command Prompt as outlined above. However, as with any registry manipulation, it is advised to back up your registry first to avoid any unforeseen issues.

Q: Can I enable this on all drives or only on certain drives?
Enabling the classic context menu affects the right-click menu system-wide in Windows 11. Therefore, it will impact all drives and folders in the operating system.

By following these steps, you can easily enable the classic context menu in Windows 11, providing a more familiar and efficient right-click experience. Whether you prefer using the Registry Editor or the Windows Terminal Command Prompt, these methods should suit your needs.