PowerToys for Windows: Essential Productivity Tools
Fix window placement with FancyZones and enable PowerRename, Text Extractor, and Keyboard Manager only as needed. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- People using PowerToys for the first time
- People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work
What you need
- Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
- Check the official distribution source domain, supported OS, and required permissions
When to use it
Fix window placement with FancyZones and enable PowerRename, Text Extractor, and Keyboard Manager only as needed.
Install the official version
Install from the Microsoft Store or GitHub official distribution, and check the switches and shortcuts for each utility in [Home] in settings.
- Install from the Microsoft Store or GitHub official distribution, and check the switches and shortcuts for each utility in [Home] of settings.
Try it
Open [FancyZones] from [Home] and turn it on. Select the target monitor in [Launch Layout Editor]. Save and apply the 3 column template. Hold Shift and drag the window into the zone. Cancel by moving without Shift or turning off the feature.
- Open [FancyZones] from [Home] and turn it on.
- Select the target monitor in [Launch Layout Editor]
- Save and apply the 3-column template
- Shift-drag window to zone
- Move without Shift or turn off the feature to release it
Use it safely
PowerToys with normal permissions may not work on apps run as an administrator. You can disable each utility individually, and check separate conditions for AI functions, etc.
Turn it off or restore settings
When not using FancyZones, turn off FancyZones in PowerToys settings. There is no need to close PowerToys itself if you continue to use other functions. If you want to stop everything, exit from the PowerToys icon in the notification area and turn off automatic startup in the settings.
Limitations and requirements
- PowerToys with normal permissions may not work on apps run as an administrator. You can disable each utility, and check separate conditions for AI functions, etc.
- Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.
Frequently asked questions
Are there windows that don't fit into FancyZones?
PowerToys with normal privileges may not work on apps that run with administrator privileges. First, check the layout using Notepad with normal permissions to determine if the problem is limited to a specific app.
Can I check PowerRename before applying it?
You can preview the file name before and after the change on the PowerRename screen. Check the items you want to include before applying.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.