How to Disable Taskbar Grouping in Windows 11 for Better Navigation

By / September 15, 2025

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you may have noticed that the taskbar automatically groups open windows of the same app together. While this looks clean, it can be frustrating when you’re juggling multiple documents, browser windows, or applications at once. Luckily, there are ways to disable taskbar grouping in Windows 11, making it easier to switch between apps.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about taskbar grouping—what it is, why people disable it, and the different methods you can use to turn it off.

What is Taskbar Grouping in Windows 11?

Taskbar grouping is when Windows combines multiple open windows from the same app into a single taskbar button. For example:

  • If you open three Chrome windows, they’ll all be stacked under one Chrome icon.

  • To switch, you must hover or click to preview and select the right one.

Why Disable Taskbar Grouping?

While taskbar grouping looks minimal, it’s not always practical. Here’s why many users prefer to disable it:

  • Faster navigation between multiple windows.

  • Easier multitasking, especially for productivity apps.

  • Direct access to documents or browser windows.

  • A more Windows 7/10-style experience.

Can You Disable Taskbar Grouping in Windows 11 Natively?

Here’s the catch: Windows 11 doesn’t currently include a built-in option to turn off taskbar grouping (unlike older versions). But don’t worry—you can still achieve it using tweaks and third-party tools.

Method 1: Use StartAllBack (Easiest Method)

StartAllBack is a lightweight third-party tool that restores classic taskbar functions, including disabling grouping.

Steps:

  1. Download StartAllBack from its official website.

  2. Install and launch the program.

  3. Go to Taskbar settings.

  4. Look for Combine taskbar buttons and set it to Never.

  5. Apply changes, and your taskbar will display separate buttons for each window.

âś” Bonus: StartAllBack also lets you customize the Start menu and File Explorer.

Method 2: Use ExplorerPatcher (Free Alternative)

ExplorerPatcher is a free, open-source tool that restores classic Windows taskbar features.

Steps:

  1. Download ExplorerPatcher from GitHub.

  2. Run the installer and restart your PC.

  3. Right-click on the taskbar → go to Properties.

  4. Navigate to Taskbar settings.

  5. Find the Combine taskbar buttons option and set it to Never.

đź’ˇ Tip: This tool gives you a Windows 10-style taskbar with more control.

Method 3: Use Group Policy Editor (Limited)

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can try adjusting taskbar settings via Group Policy.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar

  3. Look for settings related to taskbar buttons (if available).

  4. Modify them to Never combine.

⚠️ Note: Depending on your Windows 11 version, this option may be missing.

Method 4: Registry Editor Tweak

You can try tweaking the Windows Registry to adjust taskbar behavior.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer

  3. Right-click in the right pane → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.

  4. Name it: NoTaskGrouping.

  5. Set its value to 1.

  6. Restart your PC.

⚠️ This may not fully work on all Windows 11 builds, which is why third-party tools are more reliable.

Method 5: Wait for Future Windows Updates

Microsoft has been listening to feedback, and many users have requested the “Never Combine Taskbar Buttons” option. This feature is expected in future Windows 11 updates. Keep your system updated to get it as soon as it rolls out.

Pros and Cons of Disabling Taskbar Grouping

âś… Pros:

  • Faster multitasking.

  • More intuitive navigation.

  • Old-school Windows feel.

❌ Cons:

  • Takes up more space on the taskbar.

  • Can look cluttered if too many apps are open.

  • Requires third-party tools (for now).

Tips for Better Taskbar Navigation

  • Pin your favorite apps to the taskbar for quick access.

  • Use Alt + Tab for fast window switching.

  • Enable Task View for a bird’s-eye view of all open apps.

Safety of Third-Party Tools

Both StartAllBack and ExplorerPatcher are safe and widely used. Just be sure to download them from official sources to avoid malware.

Conclusion

While Windows 11 doesn’t natively let you disable taskbar grouping, you’re not stuck with it. Tools like StartAllBack and ExplorerPatcher restore the classic taskbar experience, giving you individual buttons for each window. Whether you’re a multitasker, a productivity enthusiast, or just miss the old style, disabling taskbar grouping can make Windows 11 feel more efficient.

FAQs

Q1: Can I disable taskbar grouping without third-party tools?
Not at the moment—Windows 11 doesn’t provide a built-in option.

Q2: Is StartAllBack free?
No, it’s a paid tool, but it offers a free trial.

Q3: What’s the best free alternative to disable taskbar grouping?
ExplorerPatcher is the best free option.

Q4: Will Microsoft add a native “Never Combine” option in the future?
Yes, it’s in development and expected in upcoming updates.

Q5: Does disabling taskbar grouping affect performance?
No—it only changes how windows are displayed on the taskbar.

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