Improving Windows 11 Usability

Overview

Windows 11 has improved significantly since its release, but there are still opportunities for enhancing its usability. This guide provides tips on disabling telemetry, modifying the user interface, and bringing back classic Windows apps to enhance productivity and user experience.

Sponsor

• VIP SCD Key: Offers a valid Windows 10 license for under $20 which allows a free upgrade to Windows 11.

Enhancements and Tweaks

Disabling Telemetry

• Services Method:
  1. Open the Services menu and disable the "Connected User Experience and Telemetry".
  2. Access settings, navigate to Privacy, and turn off optional diagnostic data.
• Registry Method:
  • Use regedit to navigate to: Local Machine -> Software -> Policies -> Microsoft -> Windows -> DataCollection.
  • Create a DWord (32-bit) Value named AllowTelemetry with a value of 0.

Removing Default Apps

• Clean out the start menu by uninstalling shortcuts and apps like Microsoft 365, messenger, etc.
• Go through the "All Apps" menu and uninstall anything unnecessary.

Restoring Classic Windows Apps

• You can restore Windows 10 versions of popular apps like Notepad, Task Manager, Sticky Notes, and more to Windows 11.
• Use websites like win-aero to download and install these classic apps.
• Specific instructions for Notepad, Paint, Task Manager, and other common applications are available.

Classic Photo Viewer

• Use Windows 7 Photo Viewer by adding file associations via a registry hack available through Windows 10 forums.

UI Tweaks with Explorer Patcher

• Explorer Patcher: Offers tweaked Windows 11 elements to resemble Windows 10.
  • Install from github.io with provided instructions.
  • Adjust settings for taskbar and start menu to resemble Windows 10 or earlier versions.
• Modify taskbar position and start menu style through the patcher's properties.

Conclusion

Despite controversies and initial criticisms, Windows 11 can be customized and improved significantly through various tweaks and third-party applications. Users can personalize their experience to regain elements from previous Windows versions or introduce new enhancements for improved functionality.