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How to Change Display Language in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jan 28, 2026 Updated Aug 13, 2026 3 min read
How to Change Display Language in Windows 11
How to Change Display Language in Windows 11

Changing your display language in Windows 11 updates all the menus, settings screens, and system messages on your computer to show your chosen language. The Settings app lets you switch this language across your whole desktop by downloading a language pack and setting it as your main choice. If you want to switch from English to Spanish, for example, you first need to download the Spanish language pack, then sign out and back in so the change applies everywhere.

⚡ Quick Answer

Go to Settings , then Time & language, and finally Language & region. Add your desired language and select “Set as my Windows display language” before installing it. You will need to sign out and back in for the change to take effect.

Steps to Change the Display Language in 🪟 Windows 11

Step 1Open Settings

Click the Start button (the Windows icon at the bottom left). Then click Settings. Or use this quick shortcut: Press the Win+I on your keyboard to open Settings immediately.

Step 2Go to Language Settings

In the Settings window, click Time & language on the left side. Then click Language & region on the right side.

Step 3Add a New Language

Click the Add a language button.
Windows 11 Language Settings
Windows 11 Language Settings

Step 4Pick Your Language

Find the language you want in the list. Typing in the search box helps locate specific options faster. Then click Next.
Add Language in Windows 11
Add Language in Windows 11

Step 5Set as Display Language

Look for the box labeled “Set as my Windows display language” and check it. Then click Install.
Set Windows Display Language
Set Windows Display Language

Step 6Wait for Installation

Downloads take a few moments depending on your connection speed. After completion, signing out and signing back in allows the new language to start working.

Step 7 (Optional): Add Keyboard Layout

Typing in a new language works best alongside a matching keyboard layout. Go back to the Language & region settings. Click your new language. Then click Language options. Click Add a keyboard and choose the keyboard layout for your language.
Add Keyboard Layout Windows 11
Add Keyboard Layout Windows 11

Extra Tips

  • If Windows doesn’t install the language automatically, you might need to download the language pack manually.
  • Some folder names like “Music,” “Pictures,” and “Documents” will change to the new language after you log back in.

Summary

The Settings app handles language changes from start to finish. Add the desired language pack first, then assign it as the primary display option. After installing the necessary language pack, a quick restart will apply the changes so you can see your new Windows 11 language. Here’s how:
  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to Time & language Language & region
  3. Add your new language
  4. Set it as your display language
  5. Sign out and sign back in
A matching keyboard can also be added for typing in that language. Enjoy using Windows 11 in the language that feels best for you!

How to change 🪟 Windows 11 language without reinstalling?

Type and search [Language settings] in the Windows search bar ①, and then click [Open]②. In preferred languages, click [Add a language]③. Choose a language you want to install from the list④, and then select [Next]⑤.

How do I force windows to be in English?

Go into “Settings” and click on “Time & language”. Select “Language & region”. The currently-supported languages should be shown under “Preferred languages”. To add a new language, click on “Add a language” and a list of available languages will appear.

Why is my 🪟 Windows 11 in Chinese?

Change the Windows 11 Default Language. Click the Clock Icon for Time and Language settings. Click Language & Region. Click the world Icon with language symbols to open Language and Region settings. In the Language section, click the Add a language button for the Preferred languages setting.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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