10 Features You Should Disable in Windows 11 (2024)

Disable Unnecessary Features for Better Performance

Photo by Windows on Unsplash

Windows 11 comes loaded with numerous features, many of which might be unnecessary for the average user. To enhance your computing experience, reduce distractions, and reclaim system resources, here’s a guide on how to disable some of these non-essential features.

1. Customize the Search Box on the Taskbar

The search box on the taskbar can be redundant as it’s also available in the Start menu. If you prefer a cleaner taskbar:

• Open Settings by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Settings, or use the shortcut Windows key + I.
• Navigate to Personalization > Taskbar.
• In the Search setting, select “Hide” to remove the search box. Alternatively, choose “Search icon only” or “Search icon and label” to minimize its presence.

2. Revert Taskbar Alignment to Left

Windows 11 defaults to center-aligning the Start button and icons, which might be unfamiliar to long-time Windows users. To realign them to the left:

• Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
• Scroll to Taskbar behaviors and select “Left” for Taskbar alignment.