Windows 11 is hiding a second Start menu: Why should you use it?

Most Windows 11 users know about the regular Start menu with its colorful tiles and suggested apps. But Microsoft has hidden a second Start menu that you should definitely use.

How to access the hidden Start menu in Windows 11

Just a simple right-click will bring up this hidden Start menu. You don't need any special settings or third-party software to unlock this feature. Microsoft built this feature into Windows 11, but it doesn't exactly advertise its existence.

The easiest way to open this menu is to right-click directly on the Start button. You'll see a dark pop-up menu appear with a long list of system tools and shortcuts. The menu responds instantly, giving you quick access to Windows features that are usually hidden in Settings.

If you like keyboard shortcuts, you can press the Windows key and X at the same time. This key combination works everywhere in Windows 11, even when you're running full-screen apps. This method is especially faster when working with a laptop without a mouse connected.

Touchscreen users can access this menu by pressing and holding the Start button for a few seconds. The menu will automatically appear when Windows detects the press-and-hold gesture.

The menu appears in the same place no matter how you access it. Microsoft placed the menu right next to the Start button, making it easy to find and use. The dark theme helps differentiate it from the regular Start menu, so you'll never confuse the two.

What you can do with the Start menu when you right-click

This hidden menu contains a collection of system tools and shortcuts that you would normally have to click multiple times to access. Microsoft has organized these tools into logical groups, making it easy to find what you need quickly. This menu provides easy access to useful utilities including:

1. Apps and Features : You can access the application manager directly through the Apps and Features menu , allowing you to uninstall or modify installed programs. This shortcut saves time by skipping multiple Settings screens to check settings or remove software faster.
2. Device Management : The menu includes Device Manager for instant hardware troubleshooting and driver updates, as well as Disk Management for handling hard drive partitions and storage tasks.
3. Advanced System Tools : Quick links to Computer Management, Event Viewer and Network Connections allow you to manage system logs, services and change DNS servers without navigating through multiple menus.
4. Command-Line Tools : The menu offers the ability to launch PowerShell or Command Prompt (including with admin privileges), making this the best menu for minimalists who want complete control over their Windows PC.
5. Task Manager and Run Dialog : There is a dedicated shortcut to Task Manager and the Run dialog for quick access, streamlining system monitoring and program launching.
6. Settings and File Explorer : Direct access to Settings and File Explorer ensures all common system functions are available from one central location.
7. Power Options : Quickly restart, shut down, or put your PC to sleep using the Shut-down or sign out menu item (with sub-options for Sleep, Shut down, and Restart). You can also access the main power settings to configure battery options and power modes.

With all these utilities at your fingertips, the right-click Start menu is a powerful tool that simplifies your Windows experience. Whether you're troubleshooting, managing software, or just saving time, the menu offers convenience and efficiency.

Why use a hidden Start menu?

The right-click Start menu in Windows 11 makes your PC experience faster, easier, and more reliable. Instead of digging through layers of settings or hunting for hidden system tools, you can get direct access to everything important in one place.

Speed ​​is the first thing you'll notice. If your computer starts acting up, you can open Device Manager or Task Manager with a single click. No need to fumble through Control Panel or remember complicated file paths. You also don't need to memorize extensive Windows shortcuts to quickly access its core features. This quick access saves you time and frustration every day.

Consistency is another big advantage. No matter what Windows 11 device you use, whether it's a work laptop, a home desktop, or a friend's PC, the right-click Start menu always appears in the same place with the same set of tools. If you help other people use their computers, this menu is something you'll always have.

Most importantly, the right-click Start menu fits naturally into the power user's workflow. It puts the tools you actually use, like Disk Management, Network Connections, PowerShell, etc., right at your fingertips. You don't have to memorize shortcuts or hunt through menus. Everything is organized, easy to find, and ready to use.

This hidden Start menu is one of the best Windows 11 shortcuts for improving productivity. It provides easy access to power user tools while maintaining the clean, simple interface that regular users love. By incorporating this menu into your daily workflow, you will find yourself more productive and confident in handling system administration tasks.

So next time you need to check system information, manage devices, or troubleshoot problems, remember that Windows 11's secret Start menu has exactly what you need, just a right-click away.

Micah Soto

Update 06 June 2025