Taskbar Not Hiding in Full-Screen Mode on Windows 11 — How to Fix It

In Windows 11, the taskbar is supposed to hide automatically when you enter full-screen mode, whether you’re watching a video, playing a game, or using an app. However, sometimes the taskbar refuses to disappear and obstructs your view. Let’s explore the common reasons behind this issue and how to fix it.

Main Reasons Why the Taskbar Doesn't Hide

  • System Notifications: Notifications, such as system updates or messages from apps, can keep the taskbar visible.
  • Application Errors: Some applications may not fully support full-screen mode, causing the taskbar to remain on the screen.
  • System Bugs: Sometimes the issue is related to a bug in the operating system or the Windows Explorer process (Explorer.exe).
  • Incorrect Taskbar Settings: Incorrect taskbar configuration settings can also lead to the taskbar staying visible.

How to Fix the Taskbar Not Hiding Issue

Here are several effective methods you can try to resolve the issue.

1. Restart Windows Explorer

The first step is to restart the Windows Explorer process. It’s a quick and simple fix that can solve temporary glitches.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Find the Windows Explorer process in the list.
  3. Right-click on the process and select Restart.

After restarting, the taskbar should hide in full-screen mode.

2. Check Taskbar Settings

Sometimes the problem lies in the taskbar settings. Here’s how to check:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) and go to Personalization → Taskbar.
  2. Make sure the Automatically hide the taskbar in desktop mode option is turned on.

If this setting is already enabled, try toggling it off and on again to refresh the configuration.

3. Check for Active Notifications

Sometimes, the system tries to display an important notification, which can prevent the taskbar from hiding. Make sure there are no pending notifications:

  1. Click on the Notification Center icon in the right corner of the taskbar.
  2. Clear all notifications by clicking on Clear All.

4. Boot into Safe Mode

If the above methods don’t work, try rebooting your computer in Safe Mode to see if a third-party application is causing the issue.

  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Boot tab and check the Safe boot option.
  3. Click OK and restart your PC.

5. Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated graphics drivers can also cause issues with full-screen mode. Make sure your drivers are up to date by using the Device Manager or downloading the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website.

6. Run System File Checker

If the problem persists, run the System File Checker to repair any corrupted system files:

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete, and then restart your PC.