If Microsoft’s updates seem to introduce more problems than they solve, you’re not alone. The transition from the classic context menu to a “simplified”version in Windows 11 has left many users longing for the familiar. Fortunately, there’s a way to bring back the classic context menu. Below, we outline two methods to restore it.
Two Methods to Enable Classic Context Menu in Windows 11
Here, we provide two approaches to regain the classic context menu: a quick, temporary solution and a more permanent one that involves adjusting your registry settings.
Method 1: The Temporary Fix
The quickest way to access the classic context menu is to use the built-in options:
- **Show More Options**: Right-click on a file and select “Show more options” at the bottom of the new context menu.
- **Shift + Right-Click**: Alternatively, hold down the “Shift” key while right-clicking a file to directly open the classic context menu.
Method 2: The Permanent Fix
This method requires registry changes but will restore the classic context menu permanently. Follow these steps carefully:
- Open Registry Editor: Type regedit in the Windows search bar and click the “Registry Editor” icon.
- Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER: Click on the downward arrow next to “HKEY_CURRENT_USER“and tap the icon next to “Software.”
- Access CLSID Folder: Expand “Classes” and locate the “CLSID” folder after scrolling through several options.
- Create New Key: Right-click the “CLSID” folder, select “New,” then “Key.” Name the new folder
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}. - Create Subkey: Right-click the new key, select “New,” and then “Key” again. Name this subkey “InprocServer32.”
- Edit (Default) Value: Click on “InprocServer32,” double-click the “(Default)” value on the right, and leave the “Value data” field blank. Click “OK.”
- Restart Windows Explorer: Press
Ctrl + Shift + Esc, find “Windows Explorer” under “Apps,” right-click it, and select “Restart.”
Your classic context menu should now be restored for good! Approach these registry edits with caution, as improper changes may affect your system’s functionality.
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