SOLVED: Taskbar Right-Click Not Working

The taskbar is a vital component of Windows, providing quick access to applications, system settings, and notifications. However, if right-clicking on the toolbar stops working, it can be frustrating. We will take a look at the causes and solutions to fix the issue on Windows 10 and 11.

Why Is Right-Click Not Working on the Taskbar?

Several factors can cause the taskbar to right-click to stop responding, including:

• Corrupted system files – Damaged Windows files can cause taskbar functionality issues.
• Explorer.exe glitches – The process managing the taskbar may be malfunctioning.
• Faulty Windows updates – Some updates can introduce bugs affecting taskbar interactions.
• Incorrect system settings – Certain configurations might disable right-click functions.

How to Fix Taskbar Right-Click Not Working

Follow these methods to resolve the issue effectively.

1. Restart Windows Explorer

Since the taskbar is controlled by the Windows Explorer process, restarting it can quickly restore right-click functionality.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Find Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.
4. Wait for the taskbar to refresh and check if right-clicking works.

2. Check for System File Corruption

Corrupt system files can break essential Windows features, including the taskbar’s right-click function. Running a system file checker scan can help fix the issue.

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.

If issues persist, run the following DISM commands:

• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

3. Update Windows

If the problem started after a Windows update, installing the latest updates may contain bug fixes.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.

4. Modify Taskbar Settings via Registry Editor

Incorrect registry settings can prevent the taskbar from functioning properly. Adjusting them can restore right-click functionality.

Warning: Modifying the registry can be risky. Proceed with caution.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the following path:
3. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
4. Look for NoViewContextMenu. If found, right-click it and select Delete.
5. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

5. Run a Full System Repair with Fortect

If right-click issues persist due to deep-seated system corruption, a full system repair tool like Fortect can help.

Fortect automatically scans your PC for corrupted files and then repairs them to restore optimal performance. It also removes crashed program remnants, ensuring system stability.

Download and install Fortect now.

6. Create a New User Account

A corrupted user profile can cause various system issues. Creating a new account can help determine if the problem is user-related.

1. Open Settings and go to Accounts.
2. Select Family & other users and click Add someone else to this PC.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new account.
4. Log into the new account and check if the taskbar right-click works.

7. Perform a System Restore

If the issue started recently, rolling back to a previous system state can undo problematic changes.

1. Press Win + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point before the issue begins.
3. Complete the process and restart your PC.

Conclusion

A non-responsive right-click on the taskbar can disrupt workflow, but the solutions above can restore its functionality. Whether restarting Explorer, running system scans, or using Fortect for deep repair, these steps will help fix the issue effectively. If none of the methods work, consider performing a system reset as a last resort.