5 Best Ways to Access Windows Tools on Windows 11

Windows 11 is packed with powerful built-in tools—Task Manager, Disk Cleanup, Device Manager, and more. But many users don’t know the quickest or most efficient ways to get to them. Whether you’re troubleshooting, tweaking, or just exploring, here are five of the best ways to access essential Windows tools on Windows 11.

1. Use the Start Menu Search

The fastest and most straightforward method. Just click the Start button or tap the Windows key, then type the name of the tool you want—like “Task Manager,” “Command Prompt,” or “Disk Cleanup.” Windows search will find it in seconds.

Why it works: It bypasses menus and folders and takes you straight to the tool, even if it’s buried deep in the system.

2. Right-Click the Start Button (Win + X Menu)

Press Windows + X or right-click the Start button to bring up a hidden power menu. From here, you can quickly launch:

• Task Manager
• Device Manager
• Disk Management
• Windows Terminal
• Settings and more

Why it works: It’s faster than digging through Control Panel or Settings, and it’s always available—no matter where you are on the system.

3. Control Panel and Windows Tools Folder

While Windows is pushing users toward the Settings app, the Control Panel and Windows Tools folder are still alive and useful.

To access them:

• Open Start > type “Control Panel” or “Windows Tools”
• Inside “Windows Tools,” you’ll find dozens of utilities like:
  • Performance Monitor
  • Resource Monitor
  • Event Viewer
  • System Configuration (msconfig)

Why it works: It gives you one central place to access most classic administrative tools.

4. Run Dialog (Windows + R)

If you know the name of the tool’s executable file, this is a power move. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, then type:

• cmd → Command Prompt
• msconfig → System Configuration
• regedit → Registry Editor
• perfmon → Performance Monitor
• devmgmt.msc → Device Manager

Why it works: It’s ultra-fast and ideal for power users who want to skip GUIs altogether.

5. Pin to Start or Taskbar for Quick Access

If there’s a tool you use frequently, pin it.

• Open the Start menu
• Right-click the tool
• Choose “Pin to Start” or “Pin to Taskbar”

Why it works: You’re customizing your workspace. No searching, no menus—just click and go.

Final Tip

Windows 11 has streamlined its interface, but that doesn’t mean the tools are gone. They’re just hidden behind new layers. Mastering a few of these shortcuts puts everything back at your fingertips.

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