The absolute fastest alternative to Quick Launch is already built into your system. Windows automatically assigns a number shortcut to the first ten apps pinned to your taskbar (from left to right). Windows Key + 1 opens the first pinned app. Windows Key + 2 opens the second pinned app. Windows Key + 5 opens the fifth pinned app, and so on.

Navigate to the official ExplorerPatcher GitHub repository and download the latest stable installer ( ep_setup.exe ).

Look at your Taskbar. If your system runs an older build of Windows 11, right-click the taskbar, hover over , select New Toolbar , and choose your custom folder.

Here’s everything you need to know about Quick Launch on Windows 11.

Method 1: The Ultimate Restorative Workaround (ExplorerPatcher)

Pinned taskbar icons in Windows 11 serve a dual purpose—clicking them launches the application, but they also represent running instances of that application. When you open a pinned app, its icon may shift, combine with other windows, or change appearance based on how many windows are open. In contrast, Quick Launch icons function purely as launchers. They never transform into running windows, never combine with other icons, and always occupy the same fixed position on your taskbar. This predictability is exactly what makes Quick Launch appealing to users who launch the same suite of applications dozens of times per day.

Open the Registry Editor by pressing Win + R , typing regedit , and pressing Enter. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Streams\Desktop . In the right pane, right-click an empty space, select "New" and then "DWORD (32-bit) Value." Name this new value TaskbarWinXP and double-click it to modify its data. Set the value to 1 and ensure the base is set to hexadecimal.

Quick Launch is a feature that allows you to quickly access frequently used applications, files, and folders directly from the taskbar. It's a convenient way to save time and boost your productivity by providing instant access to your most-used items.

Make sure you’re using the correct folder: %userprofile%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch Not a custom folder you created.