I stepped away from Windows in 2015. Moved to Linux Mint Rosa. Never regretted this. For programs that require Windows I run WinXP or Win7 in a virtual box. Cheers
Thanks for the clear video. I really like the changes you demonstrated to help make Windows 11 more palatable to those of us who still need to use it for business legacy apps. I'm still waiting for the day when businesses can finally ditch Windows for a more open OS.
LOL... reminds me of when I tried Mandrake 7.2 with KDE .... after tweaking and fiddling until I got a nice desktop, I was amused to discover that I'd reinvented Win95. :D
@@Reziac I spent a lot of time with mandrake- mostly because I liked the urpmi scheme that was the first to solve dependency issues on install. It was great in its day.
@@sumduma55 Yeah it was the first linux that really looked promising to me. Too buggy for everyday, but that's when I started keeping an eye on KDE. And today every linux I really like is a Mandrake descendant.
The future of Windows is most likely Linux for me! The egregious anti-privacy, anti-consumer, ad-fueled practices of Windows 11 on display so far have finally convinced me to stop spending time and money 'fixing' my machines to protect me from my OS - currently testing Fedora with Plasma desktop environment... .
@@fred-youtube Yeah, I started with Ubuntu, went to Mint because I couldn't get on with the Ubuntu desktop environment (before I discovered you can just change the environment or download a distro with the environment you favour). Then I read up a bit and found out that Fedora is the middle ground between the stability of Long Term Support Ubuntu, or Mint, and the bleeding edge of Arch - which, for me, strikes a happy medium between stability for work and reasonably timely updates for improved gaming support. Although I've learned a lot about Linux, distros, desktop environments, file systems and so on as I've hit (and tried to overcome) challenges I need to resolve before I fully commit to Linux, I'm still very much a noob, but I learn best by doing and having a goal.
In Ubuntu, Fedora, etc you can change the DE, but unfortunately there are software products behind. I am having "tearing" with Nvidia lagacy blob and XFCE, and I don't adore XFCE much. It looks simple, but when you start working, it limps almost as Win95 desktop. ( I mean Win95 was the milestone and the Revolution, but Win98 and Win2k desktops were much better)
@@herbaceousboredom9584 isn't fedora redhat based and Ubuntu Debian based? It's been a while since I've been under the hood of a Linux boxen, but if memory serves me correctly, they did some things fundamentally different with configuration files and all. Or has that all changed now ?
Essential viewing for a beginner like me. And you're British, as I am, not yet another American. Discovering your channel really has made my day. Thank you so much.
Thanks Chris for reminding me just how much better Linux is for doing these kinds of tweaks (usually without the need to reboot). When MS upgraded(?) to Win8 they forced me to look at Linux and I haven't looked back since.
We don't have to do these tweaks on Linux. Tweaks we do on Linux are done once to make it work like we want it to and have it stay that way. Every time Windows updates, you live in fear that Microsoft has changed back your settings, installed new bloatware or started showing you ads in Windows Explorer. With Windows, you buy your PC, give it to Microsoft and they lease it back to you under their rules.
My solution to Windows 11 is simple: stick with Windows 10, until it is taken off support. Then switch to Linux, likely Steam OS, so I can do gaming better. Windows is actively hindering innovation with its total monopoly on the market, in my reckoning.
With this I do agree. But like it or not, Windows 11 is the future of Windows, and Windows is likely to remain the dominant OS. So, even as Linux (and Windows 7 and 10) user, I will cover Windows 11 here from time to time. :)
I disagree. The desktop UI is mature and what more innovation can you realistically do? Those who are "innovating" changed their focus to phones and tablets years ago. Even the mobile UI is pretty mature now. The days of people getting excited about a new OS and wanting to pay £150 are long gone, OSes are a commodity now.
I'm still on Windows 7, and the day I'm forced to upgrade, it is good bye Windows - trying to learn Linux, so I'm prepared for the days, but boy is Linux a steep learning curve !
@@DanElgaard9 Really? What distribution are you using? I upgraded the laptop of my 80yr old mother the other day from Windows to Linux Mint. She hardly noticed the difference :)
@Linden Reaper You'd have been better off reinstalling Windows 7. Linux Mint KDE used to be my favourite distro, but KDE is awful now. The selling points of being customisable and the K apps have fallen away and it no longer has the edge on its rival environments. You did mention KDE's dated look and feel, and I have to agree with you on that!
@@watsoft70 So what about GNOME, XFCE, i3, LXDE, Enlightenment or countless other Linux GUIs that are available to you as a KDE alternative? Also, define your use of the word "dated" when it comes to desktop environments? Maybe it's just me but any software I use is either "intuitive" or "non-intuitive" to use. I consider vim to be "intuitive" once you understand how its configuration and keyboard shortcuts work, yet vim as a text editor is mostly unchanged in about 40 years. If all you care about is looking "l33t" in front of your friends looking over your shoulder when using a computer, then you might take a "fashionista" attitude to software - but an engineer's perspective is that software either works well or it does not, and the age of it is of no real importance. It could be argued that older software that is still used today is probably an indication that it is fairly good at what it does.
@Linden Reaper I recently installed Manjaro KDE and when had pop-up telling me of missing components when using Dolphin and "K" apps. I don't expect to have to track-down solutions to make the basics work. KDE is sold on its flexibility and options and yet the likes of xfce are far easier to customise.
@@terrydaktyllus1320 Probably why xfce is about the best GUI environment available on Linux. If you're interested in things just working (and being reliable) then Linux is not the place you want to be, lol. I did quote out of term, but I was half asleep...I thought I was agreeing with someone, but wasn't quite. PS. What are "friends"? ;)
What a faff to beat Windows into a semblance of docility. People used to complain about the complexity of Linux setup. Thanks for doing so much work to illustrate the difference, Chris. It's sad that so much effort on the part of the user is necessary to thwart so much effort on the part of the developers, and the only reason that it's possible at all is a combination of public outcry and legislation.
I don't like olives. When I order a pizza, I choose one without olives. I don't choose one with olives and then just pick the olives off when it arrives. That explains the "keep fighting against Windows 11 changing your configuration each time it updates" mentality. I prefer to start with an OS that I don't have to fight against. Good riddance to being rid of my Microsoft abuser.
@@Reziac Thanks. And I prefer your use of anchovies instead of olives, so I will use that in future. I actually don't mind the occasional olive but can't stand anchovies full stop - so that works better.
Let me just say that I am another person who tried Windows 11 and finally switched to GNU/Linux. Thank you Microsoft for encouraging me to look for an alternative to your products. Please keep releasing unusable crap.
@@hrxy1 How many of Christopher's videos have you seen? The vast majority of this channel is Linux based either with systems or SBCs. Christopher lectures in computing, he would look a bit daft with no knowledge of Windows 11. He's also well aware that the vast majority of people still use Microsoft.
they dont care. try to find a laptop with no win preinstalled. its not so much to chose from. even if you install lin instead of win you dont ask money back for unused windows... thats the trick.
Thanks for this Chris. I've been using Windows 11 for quite a few months now on a laptop that shouldn't even run it :) The context menu hack is brilliant - it is something that has always driven me crazy!
Thank you, Chris! You've just covered everything I don't like about Winblows. MS just don't get it that people don't want to be tracked, hounded, nor interfering in our lives. Clearly, they are more interested in profiteering off of our computer interactions than providing what customers need. Why do they make us feel like handicapped invalids by hiding font sizes under 'Accessibility Features'? That's the first thing folks hate and want to change. I feel like Arthur Dent in Hitchhiker's Guide of the Gallaxy. "No, I don't want a pedicure. I just want to be left alone." "Share and enjoy, share and enjoy...." 😢
Incredibly helpful video, thank you Chris. I was sceptical about Windows 11 initially from watching reviews, but since running it on a new mini pc, I have actually found that I enjoy using it. While many Linux distributions are fantastic, Windows is great for the sheer range of compatible software.
I loved the bit where you said 'Like it or loathe it, windows 11 is the future of windows'. I've heard that since 1995, but i still have to admit each version of windows did manage to give improvements on the last.
For me, releasing yearly macOS or bi-yearly Linux releases is the future of Windows for me. Not only they're maintaining their looks and design principles (with addition of some features that will benefit them), but also they maintain and provide its better security and privacy for the users (incl. simple privacy settings, not a whole bunch of switches for data collection), and that should always what a computer used to be for the users. I hope this video helps in protecting our data privacy. That way, we could improve our right to our privacy when it comes in using our computers.
Microsoft have also created a (mis)operating system that now appears to need more than 8GB RAM, judging by the amount of pairs of 4GB DDR3 and DDR4 RAM modules that are now for sale used on eBay. Utterly ridiculous and truly "the king of bloat".
Thanks to you another wonderful creators I've moved on to Arch. Windows 10 runs in a KVM when absolutely necessary. Appreciate this video nonetheless, keep up the good work man.
A very useful and practical demonstration of how to set the defaults on the latest Windows 11, minus all the hysterical doom and gloom being made by other content providers - looking at you Linux people.
I have no intention of "upgrading" to Windows 11, my Windows 10 laptops and support will easily outlive me. However, Christopher has uploaded a video so I'll watch it whether it affects me or not. I think 'My Computer' should always be at the top too, I think that started with 95.
@@markharrisllb Well, it's MicroSoft telling you that it's no longer *your* computer but theirs, and in Windows 11 they can remove any software they don't want you to run. Do you think they wouldn't do that ? Me neither.
I really found this video helpful, especially the context menu fix. I also don't know why I've never adjusted the font size and some of the other enlargements you made, but I did after you showed where to do that in this video. It's much easier to see things now even with a slight increase in size. So thanks for the nudge to make some Windows improvements!
Love the thinly disguised disdain for W11! If you take a step back it speaks volumes that a video like this is needed. I want an OS to help me do what I need to do, not get in the way, which W10+ does. My laptop runs Mint and it is a breath of fresh air. If it weren't for the overwhelming apps support of Windows I would switch my desktop in a heartbeat once W7 becomes unusable (which it will).
The title nearly put me off; being a non-Windows person. But being an EC fan, I watched it - and learnt. I will stick to Linux and its variants. Great video 🇨🇦
This is the first time Microsoft has released a new version of Windows that I do not want to try. I even wanted to try Win8 (until I actually used it). But I imagine 11 will force itself onto my primary machine one of these days, and this guide will save me a lot of grief. Thank you, Professor.
Good advice and well explained. I used to do a whole bunch of stuff like this to every new build, but these days I only do the security/privacy/advertisement settings -- spending an hour or two doing a bunch of mods just got to be too much every time I do a new install or upgrade.
Good thing our work PCs can't be upgraded to Windows 11 because of its specs (maybe our eventual replacement PCs will likely be Windows 11 from the factory but I'll probably make changes to keep the UI as suggested in this video), and I no longer use Windows on my personal laptop.
It's like Christmas when you post a video. Yes, I long switched to Linux but I keep a version of Win 11 for when I simply must use it. The context menu patch was a big help.
Thank you.I'm on holiday and catching up on the videos I didn't watch all the way through the first time round. I have a PC connected to a 43" 4K TV in my den, and many of these tweaks will really help.
Have a good weekend Christopher. I enjoy saying this to you (You are so Awesome). I'm done with windows (Linux has improved a lot lately, now if they can only get wine just right, then it would be perfect, one can dream I suppose). As Always, Be Smart and Stay Safe.
Thanks so much Chris, this is a great informative video.. After about 10 years of no Windows usage, I decided to install Win11 on my now antiquated Intel Mac mini.. Installation was a real breeze, performance wise Win11 beats MacOS in all aspects..truly amazing.. The only issue I have now that Bluetooth is not working because of unavailable driver..?? Thanks again Chris, a Happy New Year to you..
Sounds like a right faff... I'll stick with Windows 10 on my laptop for the time being. These days it's more about picking an OS that annoys me the least. 🙂
@@terrydaktyllus1320 I'm not starting beef over Linux, but the person I actually replied to made out like Linux Mint was the next logical evolutionary step from Windows. Well unless you're the most casual user ever, using only a web browser and e-mail, a bit of office software, etc... it isn't. Linux can be fantastic but to suggest it's a drop-in replacement for Windows is just silly.
@@FlyboyHelosim You were "starting beef" over Linux, with respect. Which is why I echoed your own comment back to you. It has been absolutely a "drop-in replacement" for Windows for me - and it just takes one person (me in this case) to prove you're wrong. And I don't think I'm "silly" either.
Excellent video! The last hack to restore the task menus is particularly helpful! I'm using 11 on an extra PC I have and still not sure I want to risk it on my main workhorse laptop yet that's still going strong on 10. Still I like having a 2nd machine for messing with 11 and getting used to it as it improves. Did the same from Windows 7 to 10 (skipped 8!)
I'll be implementing this configuration on my gaming-only PC. Have you ever considered doing a macOS overview? I value your opinions on OS/desktop environments, and it would be cool to see you have a look at my favourite operating system.
@@ExplainingComputers MacOS has an unfair reputation among PC users. At least Apple give their users what they want instead of foisting unwanted changes on their sadomasochistic user base (i.e. Windows users)
This is timely, I just installed Windows 11 on my new build PC early this morning! Installed without issue after upgrading the motherboad bios, but I haven't loaded all my programs on it yet.
Phew! A lot of work to make an acceptable and more secure operating system! I'm not sure the typical user has all the knowledge required, so thank you for this effective demonstration... The exercise does leave us with a certain bad aftertaste: Windows 11 is definitely not a reliable or respectful "workmate". I'm glad I installed Zorin 16.1 on my new Dell laptop... A brilliant demonstration, as always!
I haven't upgraded any of my computers to Windows 11 because of the privacy issues I've read about online -- but this video makes me feel *much* more comfortable with the idea of upgrading. It looks like I can disable many of the "Microsoft steals your info" settings. I'm still waiting to see how well Steam's SteamOS Linux distro will work for playing games that I play currently on Windows 10 -- if it's good enough, I might just switch to it, rather than Windows 11. But if that doesn't work out, at least I know what settings to change in Win11 to make it less invasive and easier to use. Thanks!
Chris, I had Windows 11 on a new laptop I purchased. It came setup as Windows 11 S mode I made the changes to get out of S mode and decided to install Windows 10 Home. I think I will wait on Windows 11 for a while at least till October 2025 and see how much improved with the O/S at that time. Thanks for the hacks and will probably use them when I decide to reinstall Windows 11.
Thanks for sharing this very important video with loads of good info. I have not gone to win11 yet as I need a new PC, but soon I will be buying one. this helps so much and as always one of the most well explained video teachers on You tube. You're worth millions $ for you great info and Kindness in sharing. Forever great full
Not sure if you realized, but there is a hide scroll bar option in Windows to be turned off. It's in Windows 10, I'm not sure about Windows 11. It's in the "Make text size bigger" area. Thanks for the awesome video and everything you do!
This was a most interesting & informative video Chris on Windows 11 & one to digest! Would an update break the registry hacks that you've carried out each time or could you keep a backup of the registry and drop it in after each update? When the older versions of Windows (8.1 & 10) go end of life they're still perfectly OK to run as long as you don't connect to the internet, I get around that by a dual boot of Win 7 & Mint 20.3, I don't want to throw away all the investment of money I've spent over the years!! Thank you for another interesting Sunday afternoon :)
Thank you so much Chris for sharing your insights especially on a topic like this. as much as i dislike the new changes coming from Microsoft I am always stuck using it and like to "fix" it each time there is a new iteration. your fixes should help the pain of the new OS. the more recommendations you have on these topics are most appreciated.
I liked this video not because I like Windows, I don't. I won't use anything from MS but if I ever had to, this video would be the first thing I'd watch to turn off all the junk they want to push on you and the data they want to extract from you!
Vert informative video and as always in a clear , calm tone, so refreshing compared to other channels. Can you do a video on decentralized search engines next ? It's really an amazing technology that has potential to challenge big tech in the future.
Good day ExplainingComputers and glad this video was uploaded as I installed Windows 11 on unsupported hardware and was vindicated by the terrible privacy settings.
Because of windows 11, I format my PC,. and installed ,Garuda Linux for gaming my free time . and I am so impressed with the performance. I want to own my computer ...not Microsoft ! As for some who think about games who need windows : They run all, so fast and smooth through Steam, even i got better perfomance than windows 10 in some games.
You sir are a saviour. I assume Windows will eventually coerce us into the 11th edition. As a bewildered computer user this is going to be very useful.
@@fred-youtube Will need to educate myself. There is a "Linux survival guide" playlist on this channel, so will watch that. This idea had been suggested to me a year earlier. Was told it runs faster and doesn't intrude on privacy. Think it's about time to try it out. Thanks for the suggestion.
I love the last edit! Thank you! I've been using Windows 11 since the insider peeps could get it and haven't spent anytime making it to what I want. That menu change is awesome! Thank you! Will it be there after an update? Time will tell.
Clearly you are the Brightest Boffin on your Block. All GR8T suggestions. I would have stayed with MS to the grave.. but since Win8 :Oo I've been avoiding the Blue Pill. And it's been a thrill. Never going back (unless I need to do normal things:). Cheers
This is a great reminder of why I'm sticking with 10 on my Windows PC for as long as possible, and then hoping I won't need Windows anymore after that. I already get more use out of my Linux Mint laptop for general computing as it is, and I find it to be a much more pleasant experience. That said, this video will also come in quite handy if I ever do get forced to use Windows 11, heh.
Well many thanks for that. The tip on the context menu more than justified the cost of subscription. Don't hesitate to have more videos in this subject. BTW, do you know the CLSID that switches Windows 11 back to XP?
This video highlights just how limited Windows is, and cements my enthusiasm for all Linux distros. I'm using Garuda now, and it is so easy to make dramatic changes to the graphical user interface, the desktop environment, the security level... the konsole/command line options are very much more powerful than CMD prompt. Everything is just better - and the fact that most distros are open source enables validation that it is not stealing your data or acting as some spyware - as we all suspect windows/mac is.
I didn't know that you can drag the taskbar icon from the hidden area to the visible area! I'm still on Windows 10 and it also works lol! thanks for the tips 😍
Thank you great advice... I finally came back to this video did these hacks ... It's far easier to do this in Linux whether it be Ubuntu mate or Pi Os... I still need to have a Window's computer to run some programs... Now I have to get it to duel boot W11 & Ubuntu mate with out breaking W11
I stepped away from Windows in 2015. Moved to Linux Mint Rosa. Never regretted this.
For programs that require Windows I run WinXP or Win7 in a virtual box.
Cheers
Thanks for the clear video. I really like the changes you demonstrated to help make Windows 11 more palatable to those of us who still need to use it for business legacy apps. I'm still waiting for the day when businesses can finally ditch Windows for a more open OS.
Great Video. Adjusted my settings so much in the Windows settings I ended up with a great version of Linux Mint 🙂
:)
Based and redpilled
LOL... reminds me of when I tried Mandrake 7.2 with KDE .... after tweaking and fiddling until I got a nice desktop, I was amused to discover that I'd reinvented Win95. :D
@@Reziac I spent a lot of time with mandrake- mostly because I liked the urpmi scheme that was the first to solve dependency issues on install.
It was great in its day.
@@sumduma55 Yeah it was the first linux that really looked promising to me. Too buggy for everyday, but that's when I started keeping an eye on KDE. And today every linux I really like is a Mandrake descendant.
The future of Windows is most likely Linux for me! The egregious anti-privacy, anti-consumer, ad-fueled practices of Windows 11 on display so far have finally convinced me to stop spending time and money 'fixing' my machines to protect me from my OS - currently testing Fedora with Plasma desktop environment... .
Linux Mint and KDE Neon are the best for daily use, Fedora is a more experimental distro with what many think is a mediocre implementation of KDE
@@fred-youtube Yeah, I started with Ubuntu, went to Mint because I couldn't get on with the Ubuntu desktop environment (before I discovered you can just change the environment or download a distro with the environment you favour). Then I read up a bit and found out that Fedora is the middle ground between the stability of Long Term Support Ubuntu, or Mint, and the bleeding edge of Arch - which, for me, strikes a happy medium between stability for work and reasonably timely updates for improved gaming support.
Although I've learned a lot about Linux, distros, desktop environments, file systems and so on as I've hit (and tried to overcome) challenges I need to resolve before I fully commit to Linux, I'm still very much a noob, but I learn best by doing and having a goal.
At least Linux DE aren't asking you for ID you bind your personal ads 🤪 Not yet, not yet... but definitely will soon!
In Ubuntu, Fedora, etc you can change the DE, but unfortunately there are software products behind. I am having "tearing" with Nvidia lagacy blob and XFCE, and I don't adore XFCE much. It looks simple, but when you start working, it limps almost as Win95 desktop. ( I mean Win95 was the milestone and the Revolution, but Win98 and Win2k desktops were much better)
@@herbaceousboredom9584 isn't fedora redhat based and Ubuntu Debian based?
It's been a while since I've been under the hood of a Linux boxen, but if memory serves me correctly, they did some things fundamentally different with configuration files and all. Or has that all changed now ?
I just upgraded straight from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11, so this video was well-timed. Thank you Christopher!
Once more, brilliant - practical, swift and to the point. Thanks, Chris
I am new to computers and I have Windows 11. These videos are great. Very well explained and interesting. 😃
Essential viewing for a beginner like me. And you're British, as I am, not yet another American. Discovering your channel really has made my day. Thank you so much.
Thanks Chris for reminding me just how much better Linux is for doing these kinds of tweaks (usually without the need to reboot). When MS upgraded(?) to Win8 they forced me to look at Linux and I haven't looked back since.
Same here! Linux isn't perfect, but the mess Windows became after 7 is absolutely incredible.
:)
We don't have to do these tweaks on Linux. Tweaks we do on Linux are done once to make it work like we want it to and have it stay that way.
Every time Windows updates, you live in fear that Microsoft has changed back your settings, installed new bloatware or started showing you ads in Windows Explorer.
With Windows, you buy your PC, give it to Microsoft and they lease it back to you under their rules.
My solution to Windows 11 is simple: stick with Windows 10, until it is taken off support. Then switch to Linux, likely Steam OS, so I can do gaming better.
Windows is actively hindering innovation with its total monopoly on the market, in my reckoning.
i use steam linux to play games.. its not like i play many games but elden ring works beautifully for me
With this I do agree. But like it or not, Windows 11 is the future of Windows, and Windows is likely to remain the dominant OS. So, even as Linux (and Windows 7 and 10) user, I will cover Windows 11 here from time to time. :)
I disagree. The desktop UI is mature and what more innovation can you realistically do? Those who are "innovating" changed their focus to phones and tablets years ago. Even the mobile UI is pretty mature now. The days of people getting excited about a new OS and wanting to pay £150 are long gone, OSes are a commodity now.
I'm still on Windows 7, and the day I'm forced to upgrade, it is good bye Windows - trying to learn Linux, so I'm prepared for the days, but boy is Linux a steep learning curve !
@@DanElgaard9 Really? What distribution are you using? I upgraded the laptop of my 80yr old mother the other day from Windows to Linux Mint. She hardly noticed the difference :)
I feel Windows 11 is akin to Windows 8, was an unneeded upgrade to the previous version with tacky features.
@Linden Reaper You'd have been better off reinstalling Windows 7. Linux Mint KDE used to be my favourite distro, but KDE is awful now. The selling points of being customisable and the K apps have fallen away and it no longer has the edge on its rival environments. You did mention KDE's dated look and feel, and I have to agree with you on that!
Seeing this reminds me how glad I am that I no longer use Windows as I am now a 100% Mac user.
@@watsoft70 So what about GNOME, XFCE, i3, LXDE, Enlightenment or countless other Linux GUIs that are available to you as a KDE alternative?
Also, define your use of the word "dated" when it comes to desktop environments? Maybe it's just me but any software I use is either "intuitive" or "non-intuitive" to use. I consider vim to be "intuitive" once you understand how its configuration and keyboard shortcuts work, yet vim as a text editor is mostly unchanged in about 40 years.
If all you care about is looking "l33t" in front of your friends looking over your shoulder when using a computer, then you might take a "fashionista" attitude to software - but an engineer's perspective is that software either works well or it does not, and the age of it is of no real importance. It could be argued that older software that is still used today is probably an indication that it is fairly good at what it does.
@Linden Reaper I recently installed Manjaro KDE and when had pop-up telling me of missing components when using Dolphin and "K" apps. I don't expect to have to track-down solutions to make the basics work. KDE is sold on its flexibility and options and yet the likes of xfce are far easier to customise.
@@terrydaktyllus1320 Probably why xfce is about the best GUI environment available on Linux. If you're interested in things just working (and being reliable) then Linux is not the place you want to be, lol. I did quote out of term, but I was half asleep...I thought I was agreeing with someone, but wasn't quite.
PS. What are "friends"? ;)
What a faff to beat Windows into a semblance of docility. People used to complain about the complexity of Linux setup. Thanks for doing so much work to illustrate the difference, Chris.
It's sad that so much effort on the part of the user is necessary to thwart so much effort on the part of the developers, and the only reason that it's possible at all is a combination of public outcry and legislation.
I don't like olives. When I order a pizza, I choose one without olives. I don't choose one with olives and then just pick the olives off when it arrives.
That explains the "keep fighting against Windows 11 changing your configuration each time it updates" mentality. I prefer to start with an OS that I don't have to fight against.
Good riddance to being rid of my Microsoft abuser.
@@terrydaktyllus1320 Good analogy! Except this is more like anchovies. :Q
@@Reziac Thanks. And I prefer your use of anchovies instead of olives, so I will use that in future.
I actually don't mind the occasional olive but can't stand anchovies full stop - so that works better.
@@terrydaktyllus1320 Yep... the one place Ilike olives is on pizza.
And windoze lovers said that they don't use Linux because of the installation effort... As we said in México "No inventes cuentos".
Let me just say that I am another person who tried Windows 11 and finally switched to GNU/Linux. Thank you Microsoft for encouraging me to look for an alternative to your products. Please keep releasing unusable crap.
And the number of people in your position is growing! :)
Transitioned from Windows 10 to Debian 11. Enjoying it a lot
@@hrxy1 This your first time here?
@@hrxy1 How many of Christopher's videos have you seen? The vast majority of this channel is Linux based either with systems or SBCs. Christopher lectures in computing, he would look a bit daft with no knowledge of Windows 11. He's also well aware that the vast majority of people still use Microsoft.
they dont care. try to find a laptop with no win preinstalled. its not so much to chose from. even if you install lin instead of win you dont ask money back for unused windows... thats the trick.
Excellent video Chris, I will share the link to it with my Computing for Seniors Group.
Thanks. :)
Thanks for this Chris. I've been using Windows 11 for quite a few months now on a laptop that shouldn't even run it :) The context menu hack is brilliant - it is something that has always driven me crazy!
Greetings Chris.
Thank you, Chris! You've just covered everything I don't like about Winblows. MS just don't get it that people don't want to be tracked, hounded, nor interfering in our lives.
Clearly, they are more interested in profiteering off of our computer interactions than providing what customers need.
Why do they make us feel like handicapped invalids by hiding font sizes under 'Accessibility Features'? That's the first thing folks hate and want to change.
I feel like Arthur Dent in Hitchhiker's Guide of the Gallaxy. "No, I don't want a pedicure. I just want to be left alone."
"Share and enjoy, share and enjoy...." 😢
i love watching this old guy he's just not boring and doesn't sound cranky. watching out for that 1mil subs
Incredibly helpful video, thank you Chris. I was sceptical about Windows 11 initially from watching reviews, but since running it on a new mini pc, I have actually found that I enjoy using it. While many Linux distributions are fantastic, Windows is great for the sheer range of compatible software.
I loved the bit where you said 'Like it or loathe it, windows 11 is the future of windows'.
I've heard that since 1995, but i still have to admit each version of windows did manage to give improvements on the last.
Some great fixes here, right click the context menu was the one i mainly wanted and cursed about. Thanks a million.
For me, releasing yearly macOS or bi-yearly Linux releases is the future of Windows for me. Not only they're maintaining their looks and design principles (with addition of some features that will benefit them), but also they maintain and provide its better security and privacy for the users (incl. simple privacy settings, not a whole bunch of switches for data collection), and that should always what a computer used to be for the users.
I hope this video helps in protecting our data privacy. That way, we could improve our right to our privacy when it comes in using our computers.
Microsoft have also created a (mis)operating system that now appears to need more than 8GB RAM, judging by the amount of pairs of 4GB DDR3 and DDR4 RAM modules that are now for sale used on eBay. Utterly ridiculous and truly "the king of bloat".
Thanks to you another wonderful creators I've moved on to Arch. Windows 10 runs in a KVM when absolutely necessary. Appreciate this video nonetheless, keep up the good work man.
I'm so very excited to see your subscriber count getting closer to 1M. All the best to you and everything you do.
Thanks. :)
I continue to find this video very useful as I buy new Windows 11 machines and upgrade older ones still running Windows 10. Great job as usual!
Great to hear!
A very useful and practical demonstration of how to set the defaults on the latest Windows 11, minus all the hysterical doom and gloom being made by other content providers - looking at you Linux people.
My honest opinion about windows 11
Pros:
1. Improved ui
2.Can run Android apps
Cons:
1. Not stable as windows 10.
2. Slowed my laptop after updating.
Just another awesome, full of helpful information video. Glad you are there. Thank you Chris.
The file explorer hack on its own is worth the video ! thank you very much.
What the heck? I learned all that in just the first 3 minutes? Lol I love this show ❤️
I have no intention of "upgrading" to Windows 11, my Windows 10 laptops and support will easily outlive me. However, Christopher has uploaded a video so I'll watch it whether it affects me or not.
I think 'My Computer' should always be at the top too, I think that started with 95.
Note that it's no longer "My Computer" but " *This* Computer", which is quite a sinister development.
LOL, same here. And I rename it to the machine name.
And then I rename whatever they're calling "Network neighborhood" to "Network Hoods".
@@Kevin-mx1vi ooohh! The connotations of that is unsettling to say the least.
@@markharrisllb Well, it's MicroSoft telling you that it's no longer *your* computer but theirs, and in Windows 11 they can remove any software they don't want you to run. Do you think they wouldn't do that ? Me neither.
I really found this video helpful, especially the context menu fix. I also don't know why I've never adjusted the font size and some of the other enlargements you made, but I did after you showed where to do that in this video. It's much easier to see things now even with a slight increase in size. So thanks for the nudge to make some Windows improvements!
Very useful video, Sir Chris. Thanking you from Thailand
Greeting Don, I hope that all is well with you.
thank you for this, my pc updated to 11 somehow and this made it much more usable
Love the thinly disguised disdain for W11! If you take a step back it speaks volumes that a video like this is needed. I want an OS to help me do what I need to do, not get in the way, which W10+ does. My laptop runs Mint and it is a breath of fresh air. If it weren't for the overwhelming apps support of Windows I would switch my desktop in a heartbeat once W7 becomes unusable (which it will).
Thank you for the context menu hack! That's actually been my single biggest pain point.
The title nearly put me off; being a non-Windows person. But being an EC fan, I watched it - and learnt. I will stick to Linux and its variants. Great video 🇨🇦
This is the first time Microsoft has released a new version of Windows that I do not want to try. I even wanted to try Win8 (until I actually used it). But I imagine 11 will force itself onto my primary machine one of these days, and this guide will save me a lot of grief. Thank you, Professor.
Just install Linux/BSD mate.
Thank you! I thought I got everything but there were a couple sneaky toggles in there I missed.
Good advice and well explained.
I used to do a whole bunch of stuff like this to every new build, but these days I only do the security/privacy/advertisement settings -- spending an hour or two doing a bunch of mods just got to be too much every time I do a new install or upgrade.
I noticed you did these changes in Stanleys account Chris - presumably to make it cutting edge? 😜
Ah hah! :)
Brilliant! Nowadays I use Linux Mint (thanks to you) but like that you show these Windows 11 issues too!
Oh nice it's Sunday a new video on Windows 11 and Monaco F1 GP nice have a nice week
Greetings, and enjoy your week. :)
If you kept it going till now you have all the respect that I can give
Good thing our work PCs can't be upgraded to Windows 11 because of its specs (maybe our eventual replacement PCs will likely be Windows 11 from the factory but I'll probably make changes to keep the UI as suggested in this video), and I no longer use Windows on my personal laptop.
There are ways to get windows 11 on a pc not compatible
Very useful video as I recently switched from years of Linux and Mac at work for WIndows as home system. Especially ads and privacy secition.
Thank you for going through this. The login time for enterprise networked pc's having to download all these A.D. settings must be diving users crazy.
Thank you sir for very impressive and most detailed guide on setting up windows 11.
It's like Christmas when you post a video. Yes, I long switched to Linux but I keep a version of Win 11 for when I simply must use it. The context menu patch was a big help.
Ooh, nice tip re dragging an icon from the overflow - I like it! 👍
Just tried it on Windows 10 and found it works there too! Mind. Blown. 😀
Nice. Now i know more about win11. Setting. Time to fixed some of these setting
Thank you.I'm on holiday and catching up on the videos I didn't watch all the way through the first time round. I have a PC connected to a 43" 4K TV in my den, and many of these tweaks will really help.
How to configure Windows 11 privacy settings:
1. Go to the Start Menu
2. Select "Shut down".
3. Install Linux instead.
Hope that helps.
Have a good weekend Christopher. I enjoy saying this to you (You are so Awesome). I'm done with windows (Linux has improved a lot lately, now if they can only get wine just right, then it would be perfect, one can dream I suppose). As Always, Be Smart and Stay Safe.
Thanks for the tips! I have a new computer with Windows 11 and will probably make all the settings changes you described.
Nicely demonstrated chris! 👍
Thanks so much Chris, this is a great informative video..
After about 10 years of no Windows usage, I decided to install Win11 on my now antiquated Intel Mac mini..
Installation was a real breeze, performance wise Win11 beats MacOS in all aspects..truly amazing..
The only issue I have now that Bluetooth is not working because of unavailable driver..??
Thanks again Chris, a Happy New Year to you..
Almost certainly the Bluetooth hardware on the Mac Mini is lacking a Windows 11 driver. You could try a Bluetooth USB dongle.
Thanks so much Chris, that was a good tip..
I sure did order a BT dongle and it all is working just fine...👍
Great to hear!
You just saved me from overflowing frustration Sir! Thank you for this! 14:40
Thanks for the video Chris. You converted me to Linux. It's funny to see how updates goof up what you are used to.
Oh man Thank you so much Christopher ! That context menu not extending fully is just silly!! Soooo glad i got that sorted.
Sounds like a right faff... I'll stick with Windows 10 on my laptop for the time being.
These days it's more about picking an OS that annoys me the least. 🙂
Linux Mint is the perfect next step
@@fred-youtube Except it's Linux, which isn't suitable for everyone.
@@FlyboyHelosim Except it's Windows, which isn't suitable for everyone (myself included). "Unsuitability" is not just a Linux issue.
@@terrydaktyllus1320 I'm not starting beef over Linux, but the person I actually replied to made out like Linux Mint was the next logical evolutionary step from Windows. Well unless you're the most casual user ever, using only a web browser and e-mail, a bit of office software, etc... it isn't. Linux can be fantastic but to suggest it's a drop-in replacement for Windows is just silly.
@@FlyboyHelosim You were "starting beef" over Linux, with respect. Which is why I echoed your own comment back to you.
It has been absolutely a "drop-in replacement" for Windows for me - and it just takes one person (me in this case) to prove you're wrong. And I don't think I'm "silly" either.
Excellent video! The last hack to restore the task menus is particularly helpful! I'm using 11 on an extra PC I have and still not sure I want to risk it on my main workhorse laptop yet that's still going strong on 10. Still I like having a 2nd machine for messing with 11 and getting used to it as it improves. Did the same from Windows 7 to 10 (skipped 8!)
thanks, you identified several tweaks that are very useful for me.
I'll be implementing this configuration on my gaming-only PC.
Have you ever considered doing a macOS overview? I value your opinions on OS/desktop environments, and it would be cool to see you have a look at my favourite operating system.
I have never done a macOS video. But who knows, one day . . .
@@ExplainingComputers MacOS has an unfair reputation among PC users. At least Apple give their users what they want instead of foisting unwanted changes on their sadomasochistic user base (i.e. Windows users)
@@illegalsmirf I have to disagree. Windows is following the Apple way
@@ExplainingComputers after reviewing it my iMac now runs linux :-)
This is timely, I just installed Windows 11 on my new build PC early this morning! Installed without issue after upgrading the motherboad bios, but I haven't loaded all my programs on it yet.
Good luck with your new install. :)
Honestly i liked the task bar center, it is closer to mouse proximity in general.
Phew! A lot of work to make an acceptable and more secure operating system! I'm not sure the typical user has all the knowledge required, so thank you for this effective demonstration... The exercise does leave us with a certain bad aftertaste: Windows 11 is definitely not a reliable or respectful "workmate". I'm glad I installed Zorin 16.1 on my new Dell laptop... A brilliant demonstration, as always!
Zorin is indeed a nice OS.
I haven't upgraded any of my computers to Windows 11 because of the privacy issues I've read about online -- but this video makes me feel *much* more comfortable with the idea of upgrading. It looks like I can disable many of the "Microsoft steals your info" settings. I'm still waiting to see how well Steam's SteamOS Linux distro will work for playing games that I play currently on Windows 10 -- if it's good enough, I might just switch to it, rather than Windows 11. But if that doesn't work out, at least I know what settings to change in Win11 to make it less invasive and easier to use. Thanks!
Thanks Christopher, these tips were really helpful and i've implenented them all.
Great to hear. So we are now running very similar Windows 11 setups. :)
I found it this is the one I needed..
I just got done doing a cloning. U. R Great Chris
Thanks. :)
*Excellent video!!!* "Like it or loathe it!" 😂🤣💯
Thank you to create a video like this.
Chris, I had Windows 11 on a new laptop I purchased. It came setup as Windows 11 S mode I made the changes to get out of S mode and decided to install Windows 10 Home. I think I will wait on Windows 11 for a while at least till October 2025 and see how much improved with the O/S at that time. Thanks for the hacks and will probably use them when I decide to reinstall Windows 11.
Thanks for sharing this very important video with loads of good info. I have not gone to win11 yet as I need a new PC, but soon I will be buying one. this helps so much and as always one of the most well explained video teachers on You tube. You're worth millions $ for you great info and Kindness in sharing. Forever great full
Not sure if you realized, but there is a hide scroll bar option in Windows to be turned off. It's in Windows 10, I'm not sure about Windows 11. It's in the "Make text size bigger" area. Thanks for the awesome video and everything you do!
This I must investigate! :) Thanks.
@@ExplainingComputers You're very welcome.
This was a most interesting & informative video Chris on Windows 11 & one to digest! Would an update break the registry hacks that you've carried out each time or could you keep a backup of the registry and drop it in after each update?
When the older versions of Windows (8.1 & 10) go end of life they're still perfectly OK to run as long as you don't connect to the internet, I get around that by a dual boot of Win 7 & Mint 20.3, I don't want to throw away all the investment of money I've spent over the years!! Thank you for another interesting Sunday afternoon :)
Thank you so much Chris for sharing your insights especially on a topic like this. as much as i dislike the new changes coming from Microsoft I am always stuck using it and like to "fix" it each time there is a new iteration. your fixes should help the pain of the new OS. the more recommendations you have on these topics are most appreciated.
Thanks and the part of correcting right clicking meny that MS really messed up big time, was really useful. Thanks again
The registry hack works as of Windows 11 version 22H2. Thanks!
Yes, Microsoft have left this back door. Good to know that it worked for you. :)
I liked this video not because I like Windows, I don't. I won't use anything from MS but if I ever had to, this video would be the first thing I'd watch to turn off all the junk they want to push on you and the data they want to extract from you!
Vert informative video and as always in a clear , calm tone, so refreshing compared to other channels. Can you do a video on decentralized search engines next ? It's really an amazing technology that has potential to challenge big tech in the future.
Good day ExplainingComputers and glad this video was uploaded as I installed Windows 11 on unsupported hardware and was vindicated by the terrible privacy settings.
Because of windows 11, I format my PC,. and installed ,Garuda Linux for gaming my free time .
and I am so impressed with the performance.
I want to own my computer ...not Microsoft !
As for some who think about games who need windows : They run all, so fast and smooth through Steam, even i got better perfomance than windows 10 in some games.
You sir are a saviour. I assume Windows will eventually coerce us into the 11th edition. As a bewildered computer user this is going to be very useful.
Try Linux Mint
@@fred-youtube I've only ever used Windows. Just browsing, streaming and occasional word processing is all I do.
@@underdogunchained It will work perfectly for that, it's alot simpler to use and configure too
@@fred-youtube Will need to educate myself. There is a "Linux survival guide" playlist on this channel, so will watch that. This idea had been suggested to me a year earlier. Was told it runs faster and doesn't intrude on privacy. Think it's about time to try it out. Thanks for the suggestion.
Thanks.
Most welcome. :)
I have found an app that has basically allowed me to turn Windows 11 into Windows 10, but this is a great videos and I still learnt some useful things
That information will become useful in the future for me. Thank you. Looking forward to your next video!
Greetings Perry. :)
amazing presentation, clear concise and useful
Just brilliant !! keep up the good work
I love the last edit! Thank you! I've been using Windows 11 since the insider peeps could get it and haven't spent anytime making it to what I want. That menu change is awesome! Thank you! Will it be there after an update? Time will tell.
Time I'm afraid will indeed tell when it comes to what updates do . . . :(
By Jingo (ROFL)! Great video Christopher.
Clearly you are the Brightest Boffin on your Block. All GR8T suggestions. I would have stayed with MS to the grave.. but since Win8 :Oo I've been avoiding the Blue Pill. And it's been a thrill. Never going back (unless I need to do normal things:). Cheers
Remember when Windows 10 was the "last version of Windows" and would receive rolling updates? Pepperidge farm remembers.
Zorin, here I come!
This is a great reminder of why I'm sticking with 10 on my Windows PC for as long as possible, and then hoping I won't need Windows anymore after that. I already get more use out of my Linux Mint laptop for general computing as it is, and I find it to be a much more pleasant experience.
That said, this video will also come in quite handy if I ever do get forced to use Windows 11, heh.
Oh, and turn off your tpm.
Well many thanks for that. The tip on the context menu more than justified the cost of subscription. Don't hesitate to have more videos in this subject. BTW, do you know the CLSID that switches Windows 11 back to XP?
This video highlights just how limited Windows is, and cements my enthusiasm for all Linux distros. I'm using Garuda now, and it is so easy to make dramatic changes to the graphical user interface, the desktop environment, the security level... the konsole/command line options are very much more powerful than CMD prompt. Everything is just better - and the fact that most distros are open source enables validation that it is not stealing your data or acting as some spyware - as we all suspect windows/mac is.
Congratulations, you almost achieved a KDE-Gnome-Deepin desktop.
I didn't know that you can drag the taskbar icon from the hidden area to the visible area! I'm still on Windows 10 and it also works lol! thanks for the tips 😍
Me neither.That was a great tip. Now if only we could get less ugly icons for the system tray...
Again very educational for me, thank you.
Thank you great advice... I finally came back to this video did these hacks ... It's far easier to do this in Linux whether it be Ubuntu mate or Pi Os... I still need to have a Window's computer to run some programs... Now I have to get it to duel boot W11 & Ubuntu mate with out breaking W11