Windows 11 no longer includes the built-in Cascade Windows feature that many users relied on in Windows 10 to neatly arrange open applications. Without this option, managing multiple open windows can become cumbersome, especially when windows move off-screen or overlap excessively. Fortunately, alternative methods exist to replicate this functionality in Windows 11 effectively.

Using FancyWM to Cascade Windows in Windows 11

The most effective alternative to the missing cascade feature in Windows 11 is using a third-party tool called FancyWM. FancyWM is an open-source tiling window manager available for free through the Microsoft Store, providing a quick and easy way to cascade your open windows.

Step 1: Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 11 computer. In the search bar, type FancyWM and select it from the results. Click "Get" to download and install the application.

Step 2: After installation, launch FancyWM. To cascade windows, hover your mouse cursor over the title bar of an open window. FancyWM will display a floating menu. Click and drag the "Wrap in stack panel" button onto another window. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Shift + S to quickly cascade your windows.

This method neatly stacks your open windows, making it easy to identify and access each application quickly. FancyWM also supports custom layouts and window grouping, significantly simplifying your workflow.

Using Snap Layouts in Windows 11 to Organize Windows

If you prefer not to install third-party software, Windows 11's built-in Snap Layouts feature provides another way to organize your open windows, although it doesn't replicate the exact cascading effect.

Step 1: Open the window you want to arrange and hover your cursor over the maximize button in the top-right corner. A small panel showing various layout options will appear.

Step 2: Choose the layout that suits your needs. Windows will automatically resize and position your window according to your selection. Repeat this step for other open windows to organize them systematically across your screen.

Snap Layouts allow you to quickly arrange windows side-by-side or in other structured patterns, making multitasking simpler and more organized.

Cascading Windows in Windows 10 (for Users Who Prefer the Original Feature)

If you're still using Windows 10 or considering reverting to it, the original Cascade Windows feature remains available.

Step 1: Right-click on any empty space on your taskbar and select "Cascade windows." Windows 10 will automatically rearrange all non-minimized windows, stacking them neatly to make each title bar visible.

Step 2: To revert to the original window positions, simply right-click the taskbar again and select "Undo cascade all windows."

If "Cascade windows" is unavailable, ensure that Tablet Mode is disabled by clicking the Action Center icon in the taskbar and toggling off Tablet Mode.

While Windows 11 no longer directly supports cascading windows, these alternative methods ensure you can still organize your workspace effectively without hassle.