How to Remove Microsoft Store Icon from Windows 11 Taskbar
The Microsoft Store icon on your Windows 11 taskbar is simply a shortcut that you can remove. This process is the same as unpinning any other app from the taskbar.
Unpinning the Microsoft Store removes its icon, which is often placed there by default in Windows 11. This helps you clean up your taskbar space.
If you change your mind later, you can always pin the Microsoft Store icon back to the taskbar for easy access.
Right-click the Microsoft Store icon on your taskbar and select “Unpin from taskbar.” This removes the shortcut without uninstalling the app. You can still access the Store via the Start menu.
Why remove the Microsoft Store icon?
The Microsoft Store icon appears on the Windows 11 taskbar by default. Many users prefer a tidy desktop and find this icon takes up valuable taskbar space. Removing the Microsoft Store icon frees up room for frequently used applications and reduces visual clutter.
What happens when done?
Removing the Microsoft Store icon from the Windows 11 taskbar makes the icon disappear. The Microsoft Store app still remains installed on your computer; you can open it by searching the Start menu. No other parts of your system are affected by this action.
Method 1Unpinning from the Taskbar
Administrator privileges aren’t needed for this method.
- Find the Microsoft Store icon on your taskbar.
- Right-click the icon.
- Select Unpin from taskbar.
Method 2Unpinning from the Start Menu
Administrator privileges aren’t needed for this method.
- Click the Start button.
- Find the Microsoft Store icon.
- Right-click the icon.
- Select Unpin from taskbar.
Advanced Deployment and System Administration
IT professionals can manage taskbar icons across multiple computers simultaneously using tools like Group Policy Objects (GPO) or Intune.
PowerShell One-Liner for Quick Fix
If you prefer using commands, you can remove the pinned item with this PowerShell script. Keep in mind you’ll need administrator privileges to run it.
Remove-ItemProperty -Path 'HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Taskband' -Name 'Favorites'
Registry Editor and CIS Baselines
Working with the registry can be risky, so it’s crucial to back it up first. You can find the relevant path at 🗝️HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer. Following security guidelines, such as CIS Baselines, can help keep your system secure while you tidy up the interface.
Summary
Removing the Microsoft Store icon from your Windows 11 taskbar is a straightforward process for home users. However, IT professionals have methods to manage this across many computers at once.
Can I remove the Microsoft Store icon for all users on a PC?
Yes, you can use a Group Policy Object (GPO) to enforce a specific taskbar layout. By applying an XML file via the ‘Start Layout’ policy, you can prevent the Microsoft Store icon from appearing for all users on the machine during deployment.
Does removing the icon uninstall the Microsoft Store app?
No. Removing the icon only unpins the shortcut from your taskbar. The actual application remains installed in 📁C:\Program Files\WindowsApps. You can still access the store through the Start menu or by searching for it, as the underlying files are not removed.
How do I prevent the Microsoft Store from reappearing after updates?
To prevent the icon from returning, you must manage the taskbar layout via GPO or Intune. Simply unpinning it manually may not stop it from returning after major Windows updates or feature resets, as the system may re-apply default pinned items.
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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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