There are multiple ways to launch apps and programs in Windows 11. For example, users can use the search, the Run command (for classic desktop programs), the All apps view in the Start, the Cortana, or the app’s icon on the taskbar to launch apps.
The fastest way to launch an app is to pin the app to the taskbar and then click on its taskbar icon whenever you want to launch it. Of course, you cannot add all installed apps to the taskbar (doing so will clutter the taskbar), but it makes sense to pin your favorite apps to the taskbar for quick access.
As you already know, clicking on the app’s icon on the taskbar is all it requires to open the app.
Tip 1: You can right-click on an app’s icon on the taskbar to see the jump list.
Tip 2: To open another instance of a program (if it supports multiple instances), hold down the Shift key and then click on the program’s icon on the taskbar.
Method 1 of 4
Pin apps to Windows 11 taskbar
Step 1: Open the Start menu. Search for the app that you want to add to the taskbar, perform a right-click on the app’s entry in the search result and then click the Pin to taskbar option.
The app will be immediately added to the Windows 11 taskbar.
Method 2 of 4
Add programs to Windows 11 taskbar
Step 1: Use search to launch the app you want to add to the Windows 11 taskbar.
Step 2: Once the program/app is up and running, perform a right-click on its icon on the taskbar and then click the Pin to taskbar option.
Method 3 of 4
Pin classic desktop programs to the taskbar in Windows 11 from File Explorer
Step 1: Go to the installation folder of the program you want to pin to the taskbar. As you might know, desktop applications are installed by default in the Program Files or Program Files (x86) folders located under the root of the Windows 11 installation drive.
To quickly access these folders, copy and paste these paths in the search or Run command:
C:\Program Files (x86)
C:\Program Files
Step 2: Perform a right-click on the program’s executable file (.exe file), click Show more options, and then click the Pin to taskbar option. That’s it!
Method 4 of 4
Another way to add apps to the taskbar from the Start menu in Windows 11
Step 1: Open the Start menu. Click on the All apps button to view all installed apps and programs.
Step 2: Right-click on the app/program you want to pin to the taskbar, click More and then click the Pin to taskbar option to add it to the taskbar.
How to pin a folder to Windows 11 Start menu guide might also interest you.
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