Editing the Windows Registry can cause system instability or application errors if done incorrectly. The CLSID 86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2 is a valid Windows ID often associated with the (used for the context menu). Proceed with caution.

Enter the following deletion command:reg delete "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID86ca1aa034aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2" /f Press Enter.

reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2\InprocServer32" /f /ve Use code with caution.

If you want, I can generate a ready-to-run .reg file or a PowerShell script that performs the exact change you need (include whether you want an empty value, a DLL path, and any ThreadingModel).

reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2\InprocServer32" /ve /d "2021" /f

This command is a popular, low-level solution for a common frustration with Windows 11. By understanding the role of reg add , the unique CLSID , and the InprocServer32 subkey, you gain precise control over the behaviour of this fundamental aspect of the File Explorer.

HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID: This targets the "HKEY_CURRENT_USER" hive. Modifying this path ensures the change applies only to your specific user profile, leaving other user accounts on the machine unaffected and eliminating the need for elevated administrative privileges.

Without verifying the actual registry after running the command, it’s impossible to know which software uses it.

reg delete "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2" /f

Restart your computer, or restart Windows Explorer using this command: taskkill /f /im explorer.exe & start explorer.exe Press Win + R , type regedit , and press Enter. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\

The InprocServer32 key is a subkey of the CLSID key. It specifies the location of the DLL (Dynamic Link Library) that implements the COM class. The InprocServer32 key typically contains a string value that points to the path of the DLL file.

If you have recently switched to Windows 11, you likely noticed that the familiar right-click context menu has been replaced by a simplified version. To see the full list of options, you now have to click "Show more options," which adds an extra click to your workflow.

This command still works for many in 2026, including on newer builds, by directly interacting with the registry.

: This specific Unique Identifier (GUID) governs the behavior of the file explorer context menu manager in Windows 11.

: reg add "HKCU\Software\Classes\CLSID\86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2\InprocServer32" /f /ve

Your desktop screen will momentarily flicker. Once it returns, right-clicking any file or folder will instantly display the expanded, classic context menu. How to Undo the Changes (Restore Windows 11 Default)

Your screen will flicker briefly. Once it reloads, right-click any file or folder to view the fully expanded classic menu. How to Undo the Changes