- The start menu of Windows 11 offers extensive customization options for pinning shortcuts to folders and files.
- Properly configuring your Start menu improves productivity and the user experience on a daily basis.
- There are official methods accessible from the configuration itself. Windows to add or remove key elements next to the power button.
The Windows 11 Start Menu has brought numerous changes compared to previous versions, both in its visual appearance and in the customization possibilities for users. One of the most common requests from those who work daily with their equipment is the ability to pin important folders and files in a quick and accessible place, like the Start menu itself, to maximize efficiency and reduce the clicks needed to access your most used resources.
In this guide I'm going to explain to you how you can pin, in a simple and detailed way, both folders and files. in the Windows 11 Start menu, truly customizing it to your liking. We'll also go over additional options to get the most out of this main panel, explaining each section so you don't miss any details and can adapt the menu to your specific needs, whether at home, at work, or even if you share a computer with others. Let's get started!
What's changed in the Windows 11 Start menu?
The arrival of Windows 11 It represented a radical change in the Start menu. It is no longer located by default in the lower left corner, as has been the tradition for years in Windows, but now we find it centered on the taskbar. In addition, its operation and the way it displays shortcuts has evolved: the living tiles disappear that we saw in Windows 8 and 10, to make way for a simpler distribution based on rows of pinned app icons and a space dedicated to recent or recommended files.
However, despite these changes, Microsoft has maintained the possibility of customize the start menu so you can have your most frequently used resources, applications, and documents at your fingertips. Although at first glance it may seem like you can do less than before, the truth is that with a few simple steps you can adapt this panel to become the nerve center of your daily tasks.
Advantages of pinning folders and files to the Start menu
Before getting into the subject, it is worth asking why it is so useful pin folders and files in the start menu. The answer is simple: You save time accessing your favorite documents, applications, or network locationsYou no longer have to open long paths in the browser or search for them manually. It increases productivity and has everything just a couple of clicks away, which makes a difference when you frequently work with certain data or programs.
In addition, having folders and files well organized facilitates the workflow, Reduces the need to create desktop shortcuts (which then become cluttered and difficult to navigate) and helps keep your digital space cleaner and tidier.
Customize the Start Menu: Options and Possibilities
Windows 11 allows a lot of flexibility when it comes to customizing the Start menu. You can pin apps, folders, and to a lesser extent, files, although for the latter we must resort to small Tricks or shortcuts. The important thing is that, with proper customization, the Start menu fits exactly what you need.
Some of the most common and useful customizations you can make are:
- Pin frequently used apps to always have them visible as soon as you open the start menu.
- Customize which folders appear next to the power button (documents, downloads, network, images, videos, music, personal folder, etc.).
- Change the order of shortcuts simply by dragging the icons of pinned applications.
- Decide whether you want to show recent items, most used apps, or recommendations when opening the menu.
- Align the Start menu to the center or left from the taskbar, according to your preferences.
Step by Step: How to Pin Folders to the Start Menu in Windows 11
One of the most relevant features of Windows 11 is the ability to pin shortcuts to folders next to the power button in the Start menu. This option not only allows you to keep your most important documents close at hand, but is also ideal for those who manage multiple types of files or want separate shortcuts for personal and professional use.
- Open the start menu by clicking the Windows icon (⊞) in the center or left of the taskbar.
- Click the settings icon (⚙). If you prefer the keyboard, you can press the combination Win + I to directly open Windows Settings.
- In the menu on the left, select Personalization.. Within this section, find and click on Home, which appears on the right side of the panel.
- Within the startup options, look for the section called Folders. Click here to display the available options.
- You'll see a list of standard folders like Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music, Videos, Network, and Home. Activate (set to "On") those folders that you want to appear next to the on/off button.
- When you exit the Settings menu, you'll see shortcuts to these folders next to the power icon in the Start menu. This way, you'll always have the resources you use most at hand.
Important! Remember that, although these options are limited to the folders predefined by Windows, you can reorganize and customize their appearance according to your priorities. Your home folder can be a great ally if you usually store your most sensitive or important files there.
Can I pin custom folders or specific files?
Here comes the eternal question. Windows 11, by default, only allows you to pin the folders we've seen before using its own configuration system. However, if you want to go a step further and pin a specific folder or file that does not appear in the standard list, there is an alternative method:
- Right-click on the folder or file you want to pin.
- Choose Show more options (or press Shift + right click to see the extended menu).
- Choose the option Pin to Start to place that item as a shortcut in the central area of the start menu next to your pinned apps.
For some file types, this option may not be directly available (depending on the extension and where the file is located), but it usually works for most folders and shortcuts. If you like to experiment, you can also create a shortcut to the folder or file and then pin that shortcut to Start in the same way.
Customize the order and arrangement of shortcuts
You now have your favorite folders and files pinned to the start menu and you can rearrange them according to your preferences. To do this, just drag and drop icons in any order you prefer. If at any time you want to delete any, Right-click and select "Unpin from Start".
You can also get rid of unused default apps to make room for the ones you really need, creating a more personalized and efficient menu.
Configure other Start menu items
In addition to folders and apps, Windows 11 offers additional settings to control What type of content and options appear in the menuSome of these configurations are:
- Show most used applications: You can enable or disable this option to have the system show or hide the apps that you use the most.
- Show recently opened items: to quickly access your recent documents and files.
- Hide or show recommendations: to maintain a cleaner environment focused on your favorite resources.
To modify these aspects, return to the Configuring Windows > Personalization > Home, and adjust the options to your preferences.
What if I want to put the start menu on the left?
Perhaps, out of habit or personal preference, you want return to the traditional Start menu layout in the lower left corner. Windows 11 allows you to quickly change this:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
- In the section Taskbar alignment, select “Left”.
- The menu and icons will automatically move to the chosen position.
This way, you can maintain the modern aesthetic or return to the classic layout, depending on what feels most comfortable to you.
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