If you’ve upgraded to Windows 11, you’ve probably noticed that the right-click (context) menu looks different. Instead of giving you the full classic menu, Windows 11 shows a simplified version with fewer items and a “Show more options” button.
While the new design is sleek, many people find it inconvenient because it adds an extra click. If you’re one of those users, you might be wondering: Can I disable “Show more options” and bring back the full classic menu?
The answer is yes! In this guide, I’ll walk you through several methods to disable “Show more options” in Windows 11, so you can instantly see the full right-click menu without extra steps.
Why Disable “Show More Options” in Windows 11?
1. Save Time
No extra clicks — the full menu appears immediately.
2. Familiarity
If you’re used to Windows 10 or earlier, the classic menu feels more natural.
3. Access Hidden Options
Some third-party apps still place options only in the old-style menu, making it easier to use.
Method 1: Bring Back the Classic Context Menu via Registry Editor
This method modifies Windows Registry to force Windows 11 to always show the old context menu.
⚠️ Warning: Be cautious when editing the registry. A wrong step can cause issues. Back up your registry before making changes.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID - Right-click CLSID → New → Key.
- Name the new key:
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} - Inside that key, right-click → New → Key.
- Name it:
InprocServer32 - Double-click the (Default) value inside InprocServer32.
- Leave the field empty and click OK.
- Restart your PC (or restart Windows Explorer from Task Manager).
Now, when you right-click, the full context menu will appear immediately — no more “Show more options.”
Method 2: Use Command Prompt to Apply Registry Change
If you prefer typing commands instead of navigating in Registry Editor:
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
- Paste the following command and press Enter:
reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32" /f /ve - Restart your PC or Windows Explorer.
This does the same thing as Method 1 but faster.
Method 3: Restore Default Behavior (Undo Changes)
If you ever want to go back to the Windows 11 right-click menu with “Show more options”:
- Open Registry Editor again.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID - Delete the key:
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} - Restart your computer.
The modern right-click menu will return.
Method 4: Use Third-Party Tools
If registry editing feels intimidating, some apps can handle it for you:
- Winaero Tweaker → A free tool that restores the classic context menu with one click.
- ExplorerPatcher → Brings back classic Windows features, including the right-click menu.
Just install, apply the tweak, and you’re done.
Method 5: Temporary Workaround Without Tweaks
If you don’t want to make permanent changes, you can still access the classic menu quickly.
- Right-click and press Shift + F10 → This instantly opens the old-style context menu.
It’s not a full disable, but it’s handy if you only need it occasionally.
What Happens After Disabling “Show More Options”?
- The full classic menu shows immediately when you right-click.
- You regain one-click access to third-party app context menu items.
- The interface will look more like Windows 10.
Potential Downsides
- Microsoft may remove this tweak in future updates.
- Some new Windows 11 design elements may not blend perfectly with the classic menu.
- Registry editing mistakes can cause issues if not done carefully.
Troubleshooting
Right-click menu didn’t change after registry tweak?
- Make sure you restarted Windows Explorer or your PC.
Accidentally broke something in Registry?
- Restore your backup or delete the created key.
Context menu looks glitchy?
- Update your graphics drivers and Windows to the latest version.
Extra Tips for Context Menu Customization
- Pin your most-used apps to the taskbar or Start menu for faster access.
- Use Winaero Tweaker to add or remove menu items for a cleaner look.
- Combine this tweak with larger taskbar icons (see my other guide) for a fully customized experience.
Conclusion
The “Show more options” button in Windows 11 may look modern, but for many users, it just slows things down. By editing the registry or using third-party tools, you can disable “Show more options” and restore the classic context menu. Whether you choose the manual method or a one-click app, the result is the same: faster, more familiar right-click menus that make your workflow smoother.
FAQs
1. Is it safe to disable “Show more options” in Windows 11?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you follow the steps carefully or use trusted third-party tools.
2. Will Windows updates undo this tweak?
Sometimes updates reset registry tweaks, so you may need to reapply the method.
3. Do I need admin rights to change the registry?
No, this tweak only modifies settings for your user account, not the whole system.
4. Can I bring back “Show more options” later?
Yes, just delete the registry key or disable the tweak in your third-party tool.
5. What’s the fastest way to open the classic menu without editing anything?
Press Shift + F10 after right-clicking — it opens the classic context menu instantly.