Microsoft’s Windows 11 has long lacked a native dock like macOS or Linux. Now, PowerToys—a free, open-source toolkit by Microsoft—offers an experimental dock inspired by those operating systems. This feature, currently in beta, adds a customizable sidebar for quick app and file access, blending Windows with the aesthetics of macOS and Linux.
PowerToys has always provided advanced tools for power users, but this dock marks a significant step toward modernizing Windows’ interface. Here’s how it works, its features, and why it matters for Windows 11 users.
The dock appears as a vertical or horizontal bar on the screen’s edge, similar to macOS’s Dock or Linux’s panel. It displays icons for frequently used apps, open windows, and pinned files. Users can click on icons to launch apps or switch between open windows.
Unlike Windows’ taskbar, this dock supports advanced behaviors like transparency, auto-hide, and dynamic resizing. The tool also integrates with Windows 11’s new widgets and multitasking features, making it feel more cohesive with the OS.
To use the dock, users must first install PowerToys from its official GitHub repository. After installation, the dock can be accessed through the PowerToys settings menu. Here, users can adjust the dock’s position (left, right, top, or bottom), set transparency levels, and choose whether it auto-hides when not in use. The dock also supports multiple monitors, allowing users to sync or customize its appearance on each screen. This is a major improvement over earlier versions of PowerToys, which had limited multi-monitor support.
One of the dock’s standout features is its ability to show open windows and files. For example, if a user has multiple browser tabs open, the dock displays a thumbnail preview of each tab. Clicking on a tab opens it directly, eliminating the need to switch between windows manually. This is particularly useful for multitasking, as users can quickly access files, apps, or documents without navigating through the taskbar or Start menu.
The dock also includes a search bar that integrates with Windows’ built-in search. Users can type to find files, apps, or settings, and the dock displays results in real time. This feature bridges the gap between Windows’ traditional search and the more intuitive, macOS-style Spotlight search. Additionally, the dock supports shortcuts for frequently used actions, such as launching the file explorer, opening the settings menu, or toggling dark mode.
However, the dock is still in beta, and some features may not work perfectly. For example, the multi-monitor support is functional but lacks advanced customization options like per-monitor transparency or separate dock settings. Users have also reported occasional glitches, such as the dock freezing or not updating correctly when switching between apps. Microsoft has acknowledged these issues and plans to refine the feature in future updates.
Despite its beta status, the dock is a promising addition to Windows 11. It addresses a long-standing criticism of Windows: the lack of a unified, modern interface similar to macOS or Linux. By integrating the dock with PowerToys, Microsoft gives users more control over their environment, catering to both casual users and power users who prefer customization. The feature also highlights Microsoft’s commitment to open-source tools, as PowerToys is developed and maintained by the community.
For users who want to test the dock, installing PowerToys is straightforward. The tool requires Windows 11 version 22H2 or later and administrative privileges. Once installed, the dock can be configured to suit individual preferences, making it a versatile tool for productivity and organization. While it may not replace the taskbar entirely, it offers a fresh alternative for those seeking a more modern, streamlined interface.
The dock’s development reflects broader trends in software design, where simplicity and efficiency are prioritized. As Windows 11 continues to evolve, features like this dock will likely become more refined. For now, PowerToys’ experimental dock is a compelling way to experience a macOS or Linux-style interface on Windows, proving that even traditional operating systems can adapt to modern user needs.