The new context menu in Windows 11 looks sleek, but having to click “Show more options” every single time is a significant productivity killer.
One of the first frustrations many users face after upgrading to Windows 11 is this redesigned right-click menu. Frequently used commands are often hidden, and familiar keyboard shortcuts from previous Windows versions may no longer work as expected.
In this guide, I will show you how to quickly set or restore the Windows 10 style context menu using simple Registry edits.
1. Easy Setup Using Registry Files#
For those who find manual commands intimidating or simply prefer a one-click solution, I have prepared ready-to-use Registry (.reg) files. Here is the code they contain:
① Apply Classic Style#
This Registry code restores the familiar right-click menu style used in Windows 10.
Source Code:
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}]
@=""
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32]
@=""Download File:
After running the downloaded file, you must restart Windows Explorer to see the changes. Follow the steps in 3. Applying Changes (Restarting Explorer).
② Restore Windows 11 Default Style#
If you wish to revert to the default Windows 11 context menu style, use this code.
Source Code:
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[-HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}]
Download File:Download File:
2. Manual Setup via Command Prompt (CMD)#
If you prefer not to download files, you can achieve the same result by entering commands directly into the Command Prompt (CMD).
① Launch CMD#
Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
② Apply Classic Style Menu#
Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32" /f /veDon’t forget to follow the Restart Explorer step below to apply the changes.
③ Revert to Windows 11 Default Style#
To go back to the original Windows 11 style, run this command:
reg delete "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}" /f3. Applying Changes (Restarting Explorer)#
Registry edits do not take effect immediately. You must either restart your PC or manually restart Windows Explorer using the following steps:
① Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
② Locate the Windows Explorer process, right-click it, and select [Restart].
③ Alternatively, you can run this command in your CMD window:
taskkill /f /im explorer.exe & start explorer.exeConclusion#
As Microsoft ends official support for Windows 10, many of us are forced to transition to Windows 11.
While the new UI has its merits, the increased click count and compatibility issues with third-party software can be frustrating.
Since these changes are easily reversible, feel free to try the classic menu to see if it improves your workflow.