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How to get a transparent taskbar in Windows 11?

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Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, comes with a new design and features. One of the most noticeable changes is the taskbar, which is now centred and has rounded corners.

However, some users may not like the default appearance of the taskbar and may want to make it transparent to match their wallpaper or theme.

A transparent taskbar can make your desktop look more elegant and spacious and give you a better view of your wallpaper.

In this article, we’ve shared four quick ways to get a transparent taskbar in Windows 11.

Also read: How to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10?


Method 1: Use the Visual effects option

One way to make the taskbar transparent in Windows 11 is to use the visual effects option. This will allow you to adjust the level of transparency for your taskbar and other elements.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings menu. Here, head to Accessibility > Visual effects.

Step 2: Now, turn on the toggle in front of Transparency effects.

This will make your taskbar more transparent but also affect other elements such as the Start menu, Action Center, and notifications.


Method 2: Use Windows Registry to get a transparent taskbar

You can use Windows Registry to get a transparent taskbar in Windows 11. Just follow the steps given below:

Step 1: Search Registry Editor in the taskbar search bar and open it. Next, head to head to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \SOFTWARE \Microsoft \Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.

Step 2: Now, right-click on an empty space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. You will see a folder by the name of New Value #1.

Step 3: Now rename the New Value #1 folder to UseOLEDTaskbarTransparency. After that, double-click on the folder to open it and set the Value data as 1. Make sure to select the Hexadecimal option as Base.

Now, restart your computer for the effects to take place.

Note: You should not tamper with the Windows Registry settings as it can impact the functioning of your PC.

Also read: Fix: Err_ossl_evp_unsupported


Method 3: Automatically hide the taskbar

Although this is not a direct method to get a transparent taskbar, you can use it as a workaround.

Step 1: Head to Settings > Personalisation> Taskbar.

Step 2: Head to Task Behaviours > Automatically hide the Taskbar.

Now, you will no longer see the taskbar on your screen. The taskbar will pop up when you move the cursor to the bottom.


Method 4: Use third-party apps to get a transparent taskbar

If you want more control over the transparency of your taskbar, you can use a third-party app called TranslucentTB or TaskbarX.

These apps let you customize the appearance of your taskbar with different effects and options.

Moreover, these apps not only let you change your taskbar’s transparency but also centre your taskbar icons, add animations, and more.

You can pick any of the above apps as per your preference.

In this article, we have shown you how to get a transparent taskbar in Windows 11 using four different methods. You can use any of these methods depending on your preference and needs.

Also read: How to fix Curl error 7?

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Kumar Hemant

Deputy Editor at Candid.Technology. Hemant writes at the intersection of tech and culture and has a keen interest in science, social issues and international relations. You can contact him here: [email protected]

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