How to Restore the Classic Context Menu in Windows 11

Windows 11 introduced a redesigned context menu, which some users may find less convenient than the classic one. Fortunately, it's possible to bring back the classic context menu, and it’s a straightforward process. This guide will show you how to restore the traditional context menu in Windows 11 using registry settings and third-party tools.

Method 1: Using the Windows Registry

To restore the classic menu, you can use the Registry Editor. This method is safe if you follow the instructions carefully.

  1. Open the Registry Editor by pressing Win + R, typing regedit, and pressing Enter.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID.
  3. Create a new folder (key). Right-click on CLSID, select New → Key, and name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.
  4. Inside this newly created folder, create another folder and name it InprocServer32.
  5. Now, double-click the (Default) string value in the right pane, leave the field empty, and click OK.
  6. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

After restarting, you should see the classic context menu restored. To undo the changes, simply delete the {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} folder from the registry.

Method 2: Using the Winaero Tweaker Tool

If editing the registry manually seems complicated, you can use a third-party program called Winaero Tweaker, which simplifies many Windows customizations.

  1. Download and install Winaero Tweaker.
  2. Open the program and go to Windows 11 → Classic Context Menu.
  3. Enable the Enable classic context menu style option.
  4. Apply the changes and restart your computer.

This method is ideal for those who prefer using specialized tools instead of modifying the registry manually. With Winaero Tweaker, restoring the classic context menu is a breeze.