Where the taskbar can go and how to move it

The Windows taskbar — the bar at the bottom of your screen with the Start button, clock, and open programs — can be moved to the top, left, or right edge of your screen instead. The process takes about 30 seconds and works the same way in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

To move it, right-click on an empty area of the taskbar (not on a button or icon), then select "Taskbar settings" from the menu. In the settings window, find the option labeled "Taskbar alignment" or "Taskbar location" depending on your Windows version, and choose which edge you want. The taskbar moves immediately.

If right-clicking does not show a menu, your taskbar is locked. Unlock it first by right-clicking again and selecting "Lock the taskbar" to toggle it off, then try moving it.

Key Takeaways

  • The taskbar can sit on the bottom, top, left, or right edge of your screen.
  • Right-click an empty area of the taskbar and choose "Taskbar settings" to access the location option.
  • If right-clicking does not work, the taskbar is locked — unlock it first by toggling "Lock the taskbar" off.
  • The change takes effect immediately and does not affect any of your programs or files.
  • You can move the taskbar back and forth as many times as you want without any consequences.

Step-by-step for Windows 11

Open the taskbar settings by right-clicking on the taskbar in an empty spot — avoid clicking on the Start button, search box, or any open program icons. A small menu appears with several options.

Select "Taskbar settings" from that menu. A settings window opens. Scroll down until you see "Taskbar behaviors" or a similar section. Look for an option that says "Taskbar alignment" or "Taskbar location." Click the dropdown menu next to it and choose Top, Left, Right, or Bottom. The taskbar moves to that edge of your screen right away.

Step-by-step for Windows 10

Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar at the bottom of your screen. Select "Taskbar settings" from the menu that appears. The Settings app opens to the Taskbar page.

On the left side of the window, you should see options for taskbar position. Look for a setting that says "Taskbar location on screen" with a dropdown menu showing "Bottom." Click that dropdown and select Top, Left, or Right. The taskbar moves immediately to your chosen edge.

What to do if the taskbar will not move

If right-clicking the taskbar does not show a menu, the taskbar is locked. This is a safety feature that prevents accidental changes. Right-click the taskbar again and look for an option that says "Lock the taskbar." Click it to turn the lock off, then try right-clicking and opening settings again.

If you still do not see the settings option, try right-clicking on the Start button itself instead of the empty space. Some Windows versions respond better to that. You can also open Settings manually by pressing Windows key + I, then searching for "Taskbar" in the search box at the top.

Moving the taskbar back to the bottom

To return the taskbar to its original position at the bottom of the screen, follow the same steps: right-click the taskbar, select "Taskbar settings," find the location option, and choose "Bottom." The taskbar slides back to the bottom edge immediately.

You can move it as many times as you want without any penalty or side effects. Some people prefer the taskbar on the side to make better use of screen space, especially on wide monitors. Others move it temporarily to test a different layout and then move it back. There is no limit to how often you can change it.

Why you might want to move the taskbar

Moving the taskbar to the left or right side can give you more vertical space on your screen, which is useful if you work with documents, spreadsheets, or web pages that benefit from height. A taskbar on the side takes up less of that vertical space than one at the bottom, leaving more room for your actual work.

Some people also find a side taskbar easier to reach with the mouse, or they prefer the visual balance of having it on the left. Others use a side taskbar when working with multiple windows side by side, since it does not cut into the horizontal space. There is no performance difference — the taskbar works exactly the same no matter where it sits, and your computer runs at the same speed regardless of the taskbar location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does moving the taskbar affect my programs or files?

No. Moving the taskbar is purely visual and changes nothing about how your computer works or what is stored on it. All your programs, files, and settings remain exactly as they were.

Can I hide the taskbar completely?

Yes. In Taskbar settings, look for an option called "Automatically hide the taskbar" and turn it on. The taskbar then hides until you move your mouse to that edge of the screen, at which point it slides back into view.

What if I move the taskbar and my screen looks wrong?

Move it back by following the same steps and choosing a different edge. If the taskbar is stuck or not responding, restart your computer. This almost always fixes any display problems with the taskbar.

Does the Start menu move with the taskbar?

Yes. The Start button is part of the taskbar, so when you move the taskbar to a new edge, the Start button moves with it. Clicking the Start button works the same way from any edge.

Can I move the taskbar to a corner instead of an edge?

No. Windows only allows the taskbar to sit along one of the four edges — top, bottom, left, or right. You cannot position it in a corner or float it in the middle of your screen.