Windows 11 Unveils Ingenious Preventative Measure: Withholding Access to Windows 10’s Antiquated Taskbar for Enhanced Efficiency

Windows 11, despite using the same underlying framework as Windows 10, features some distinct differences, particularly in its shell. The key differentiators lie in the revamped Start Menu and Taskbar, which are now separate programs.

Previously, Windows 11 users had the option to switch back to the familiar Windows 10 Taskbar, as Microsoft simply hid it without disabling its functionality. However, recently it was discovered that Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26002 (Canary Channel) no longer allows the use of the original Taskbar. This change was implemented through a new system setting called DisableWin10Taskbar.

As a result, some applications that relied on the older Taskbar, such as ExplorerPatcher or StartAllBack, are unable to function properly. When attempting to access the Taskbar, these applications either crash or load the Windows 11 Taskbar instead. Therefore, the only remaining option for users who prefer the original Taskbar experience is to utilize new apps like Start11, which replicate the look and feel of the older interface.

Notably, Build 26002 introduces a new velocity feature called DisableWin10Taskbar, as evidenced by a tweet from PhantomOcean3. This feature, when enabled, prevents the loading of the Windows 10 taskbar, in line with its name. (explorer crashes or just loads the Win11 taskbar when trying to load it with ExplorerPatcher) pic.twitter.com/OcPVRpSXoF

Here is an example of the Windows 10 Taskbar running within Windows 11 using ExplorerPatcher.

Source: Windows Central

TLDR: Windows 11 introduces a new Taskbar and Start Menu experience, separate from those in Windows 10. In the latest Insider Preview Build, Microsoft has disabled the ability to revert to the old Taskbar, impacting certain applications like ExplorerPatcher. Users seeking the classic Taskbar can turn to alternative apps like Start11.