Programs

How to Ungroup Taskbar Icons in Windows 11

Customize your Windows 11 taskbar to display individual icons for each open window, improving multitasking and workflow efficiency.

By Shivamm 3 min read
How to Ungroup Taskbar Icons in Windows 11

Windows 11 introduced a sleek new taskbar design, but it also removed some customization options that many users enjoyed in previous versions. One of the most requested features is the ability to ungroup taskbar icons, allowing each open window to have its own separate icon. While Windows 11 doesn’t offer this option natively, there are ways to achieve a similar result using third-party tools. This guide will walk you through the process of ungrouping your taskbar icons in Windows 11.

Method 1: Using StartAllBack

StartAllBack is a popular third-party tool that allows extensive customization of the Windows 11 interface, including the ability to ungroup taskbar icons.

Step 1: Visit the official StartAllBack website (startallback.com) and download the latest version of the software.

Step 2: Install StartAllBack by running the downloaded file and following the on-screen instructions. Be sure to read through the installation options carefully to avoid installing any unwanted additional software.

Step 3: Once installed, open StartAllBack from your Start menu or desktop shortcut.

Step 4: In the StartAllBack interface, click on the “Taskbar” tab in the left sidebar.

Step 5: Look for the “Combine taskbar buttons” option and click on the dropdown menu next to it. Select “Never” from the list of options.

Step 6: Click “Apply” to save your changes. You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take full effect.

After completing these steps, your taskbar icons should now be ungrouped, with each open window displaying its own separate icon.

Method 2: Using ExplorerPatcher

ExplorerPatcher is another third-party tool that can help you customize the Windows 11 taskbar, including ungrouping icons.

Step 1: Go to the ExplorerPatcher GitHub page (github.com/valinet/ExplorerPatcher) and download the latest release.

Step 2: Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Step 3: After installation, right-click on the taskbar and select “Properties” from the context menu.

Step 4: In the Properties window, navigate to the “Taskbar” tab.

Step 5: Look for the “Combine taskbar buttons” option and select “Never combine” from the dropdown menu.

Step 6: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save your changes. Your taskbar icons should now be ungrouped.

Method 3: Using Winaero Tweaker

Winaero Tweaker is a versatile customization tool that offers a wide range of options for modifying Windows 11, including taskbar settings.

Step 1: Download Winaero Tweaker from the official website (winaero.com/winaero-tweaker).

Step 2: Install the software by running the downloaded file and following the installation wizard.

Step 3: Launch Winaero Tweaker and navigate to the “Taskbar” section in the left sidebar.

Step 4: Look for the “Combine taskbar buttons” option and select “Never combine” from the available choices.

Step 5: Click “Apply” to save your changes. You may need to sign out and sign back in or restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Tips for Using Ungrouped Taskbar Icons

  • Keep your taskbar organized by pinning only your most frequently used applications.
  • Use virtual desktops to further organize your open windows and reduce taskbar clutter.
  • Consider using keyboard shortcuts like Alt + Tab or Win + Tab to switch between windows quickly.
  • Regularly close unnecessary windows to maintain a clean and efficient taskbar.

Potential Drawbacks of Ungrouping Taskbar Icons

While ungrouping taskbar icons can improve multitasking for many users, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks:

  • Increased taskbar clutter, especially when many windows are open.
  • Reduced space for pinned applications if you have numerous open windows.
  • Possible performance impact when using third-party tools to modify system behavior.
  • Risk of incompatibility with future Windows updates.

Ungrouping taskbar icons in Windows 11 can significantly improve your workflow, especially if you frequently work with multiple windows of the same application. While it requires using third-party tools, the process is straightforward and can be easily reversed if needed. Just remember to download these tools from trusted sources and keep them updated to ensure compatibility with the latest Windows 11 versions.