Windows 11: How to Always Show More Options in Context Menus

When Windows 11 was first released, one of the most noticeable changes was the modern right-click context menu. Microsoft redesigned it to look cleaner, with rounded corners and simplified options. But here’s the catch — many useful actions like “Copy as path,” “Properties,” or third-party app integrations (like WinRAR, 7-Zip, or Git)” were hidden under the “Show more options” menu.

If you’re frustrated with having to click Show more options every time, don’t worry — you can make Windows 11 always display the classic right-click menu instead.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to always show more options in Windows 11 context menus using the Registry Editor and Command Prompt.

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📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)

• Windows 11 replaced the classic right-click context menu with a simplified version.

• Many advanced or third-party options are hidden under “Show more options” (Shift + F10).

• You can restore the old Windows 10-style context menu permanently by editing the Windows Registry.

• You can also switch back to the new menu at any time if you prefer the modern look.

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Why Does Windows 11 Hide Context Menu Options?

Microsoft wanted a cleaner, minimal look for the right-click menu in Windows 11. While this reduces clutter, it frustrates users who:

• Use advanced file operations frequently.

• Rely on third-party apps (like WinRAR, Git, or Photoshop) that add context menu options.

• Prefer fewer clicks instead of navigating an extra submenu.

So, if productivity matters more to you than design minimalism, it makes sense to restore the full context menu by default.

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Method 1: Use Registry Editor to Always Show More Options

The most reliable way to restore the classic context menu is by tweaking the Windows Registry.

⚠️ Warning: Editing the Registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Always create a backup or restore point before making changes.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open Registry Editor.

2. Navigate to the following path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID


3. Right-click on CLSID → New → Key.

4. Rename the new key to:

   {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}


5. Inside it, create another new key named:

   InprocServer32


6. Double-click the (Default) value in the right panel and ensure it’s blank.

7. Close Registry Editor.

8. Restart Windows Explorer (or reboot your PC):

   • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

   • Right-click Windows Explorer → Restart.

✅ Now, right-click any file or folder — you’ll see the classic context menu always visible.

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Method 2: Use Command Prompt to Apply the Same Tweak

If you prefer not to manually edit the Registry, you can apply the same tweak with a single command.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search “cmd” → right-click → Run as administrator).

2. Copy and paste this command:

   reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32" /f /ve


3. Press Enter.

4. Restart Windows Explorer using Task Manager.

✅ The classic context menu is now always enabled.

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Method 3: Revert Back to the Default Windows 11 Context Menu

If you ever want to restore the modern Windows 11 menu, simply delete the key you created.

Steps:

1. Open Registry Editor again.

2. Navigate to:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID


3. Delete the folder:

   {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}


4. Restart Windows Explorer.

👉 Now, your system will go back to the default Windows 11 context menu.

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Method 4: Use Third-Party Tools (Optional)

If you’re not comfortable editing the registry, you can use third-party utilities that restore the old context menu with one click:

• Explorer Patcher

• Winaero Tweaker

• StartAllBack

These tools provide an easier way to tweak context menus along with other Windows 11 customizations.

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Shortcut: Use Shift + F10 for Quick Access

If you don’t want to tweak anything but still need quick access:

• Select a file or folder.

• Press Shift + F10 → instantly opens the full classic context menu.

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Comparison: Modern vs Classic Context Menu in Windows 11

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Common Problems and Fixes

• Classic menu not showing after Registry edit?
  → Restart Windows Explorer or reboot.

• Accidentally broke something in Registry?
  → Use System Restore or delete the added key.

• Explorer crashes after tweak?
  → Double-check the Registry path — a typo may cause instability.

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Conclusion

Windows 11 introduced a sleek, minimal context menu, but for many of us, the extra click to “Show more options” is a productivity killer. Thankfully, by using the Registry Editor or Command Prompt, you can restore the classic context menu permanently and save time.

• Use Registry Editor (manual method).

• Or run a single Command Prompt command (faster).

• Revert anytime by deleting the created registry key.

With this tweak, your right-click experience will be just like Windows 10, making everyday tasks faster and smoother.

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FAQs: Windows 11 Context Menu

1. Why did Microsoft change the right-click menu in Windows 11?
To create a cleaner, minimal UI and highlight common options, while hiding advanced ones under “Show more options.”

2. Is it safe to restore the classic context menu?
Yes, as long as you carefully edit the Registry or use trusted tools.

3. Can I switch back to the modern menu later?
Absolutely — just delete the registry key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.

4. Will third-party apps like WinRAR work better with the classic menu?
Yes, because many apps are still optimized for the classic context menu.

5. Do I need admin rights to apply this tweak?
Yes, modifying the Registry requires administrator privileges.