Alex Ruben
How To Switch Languages in Windows 11
Changing the display language in Windows 11 isn’t exactly rocket science, but let’s be honest — sometimes it feels like Windows has to make it harder than necessary. If your interface isn’t in the language you want, or maybe you’re setting up a new PC and want everything to match, these steps should help. Sometimes it’s pretty straightforward, but on some setups, parts of the process can be weird or require a bit of extra tweaking.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
Click on the Start menu at the bottom left, then pick Settings. You can also hit Win + I for quicker access, because of course Windows likes to make shortcuts confusing sometimes. Once in Settings, look for Time & Language – it’s usually in the sidebar, easy to spot.
Step 2: Access Language & Region Settings
In the Settings window, click on Language & Region. This is where all the magic happens. The path is basically Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region. Sometimes it gets a little cluttered, but just follow the menus.
Step 3: Choose Your Display Language
Under the Language section, look for Windows display language. There’s a dropdown menu there that lists all available languages. If your preferred language isn’t showing up, you’ll probably need to add it first.
Method 1: Adding a New Language Pack
This is the usual culprit when your language isn’t listed. Click on Add a language and find it in the list, or search for it. Once you add it, Windows will try to download and install the language pack, which can take a minute or two depending on your internet. Be sure to check that the language pack gets fully installed — sometimes it’s just halfway there.
Step 4: Set Your Preferred Language
After installing, go back to the Windows display language dropdown, and select the new language. On one setup it worked right away, on another, I had to restart a couple of times to see the change.
Step 5: Log Out to Apply Changes
Changing the display language generally requires a sign out. Hit Sign Out — it’s in the start menu, or it might prompt you automatically. Expect Windows to do its thing, and you’ll need to sign back in for the new language to take effect. Sometimes the interface switches immediately after logging back in; other times, a reboot helps or even forces a couple of extra steps.
Method 2: Using PowerShell (if GUI is being stubborn)
If the GUI isn’t cooperating or the language switch isn’t sticking, a quick PowerShell command might do the trick. Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
Get-WinUserLanguageList
Set-WinUserLanguageList -LanguageList your-language-code -Force
Replace your-language-code with the language code, like fr-FR for French France or es-ES for Spanish Spain. It often works magic when GUI options are flaky.
Method 3: Check the Language Pack & Restart
Make sure the language pack is fully installed. Sometimes Windows downloads incomplete packs that need a restart or additional tweaks. You can verify via Settings > Apps > Installed Languages or similar. If things still act weird — restart, then log out. On some setups, the interface updates after a reboot or a fresh login.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Sometimes, even after doing all that, parts of Windows or some apps stick to the default language. This is normal — Windows doesn’t force every app to follow the system language. Also, some language settings are tied to updates or regional settings, which can throw a wrench into things. If certain apps are stubborn, check their specific language options or re-install if needed.
Conclusion
All in all, switching Windows 11 to your preferred language isn’t a huge task but can be a bit arcane at times. Mostly, it’s just about making sure the language pack installs right, then signing out or rebooting. Another one to try if it’s refusing to change: clear the cache or reset the language preferences via PowerShell. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than it needs to be sometimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add multiple languages to Windows 11?
Yep, just keep adding languages like normal. Switching back and forth is straightforward once they’re installed, and you can even set language shortcuts.
What if my preferred language is not listed?
Use the Add a language button — it should be in the same Language & Region menu. Sometimes, it requires a fresh Windows update or a quick internet connection to fetch the language pack.
Will changing the display language affect my files and folders?
Nah, your files and folders stay untouched. It only swaps out all the menus, buttons, and system interface elements. Keep in mind, some apps may have their own language settings though.
Summary
- Open Settings, go to Time & Language
- Add new languages if needed
- Select your language under Windows display language
- Sign out or reboot for changes to stick
- Check app-specific language settings if things look weird
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone.