Ever bought a new laptop or upgraded to Windows 11 only to find the system in a language you don’t understand? Or maybe you just prefer using your PC in your native tongue? Don’t worry—Windows 11 makes changing the language quick and simple. Whether you want to switch your display language, add a keyboard layout, or adjust region-specific settings, this guide has you covered.
Why Change the Language in Windows 11?
Changing your language settings can make your computing experience much smoother.
Better Understanding
Using your preferred language means you can navigate menus and settings with ease.
Work and Collaboration
Switching to a universal language like English helps in professional settings.
Multilingual Needs
Some people work or live in multilingual environments and need multiple language options.
What Can You Change in Windows 11?
Windows 11 doesn’t just change one thing—it offers several language-related settings.
Display Language
This changes the language for menus, settings, and system messages.
Keyboard Input Language
Lets you type in different languages without changing the entire system language.
Speech and Voice Input Language
Adjusts voice recognition features for different languages.
Regional Format
Changes how dates, times, and currency are displayed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Display Language
Here’s how to change your system’s primary language.
Step 1 – Open Settings
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2 – Go to Time & Language
Click Time & Language from the left-hand menu.
Step 3 – Select Language & Region
This is where all your language settings live.
Step 4 – Add a Language
Click Add a language, search for your desired language, and click Next.
Step 5 – Install and Set as Display Language
Check Set as my Windows display language and click Install.
Step 6 – Sign Out and Back In
Windows will prompt you to sign out to apply changes.
How to Change Keyboard Input Language
Sometimes you just need a different keyboard layout without changing the whole system language.
Step 1 – Open Settings
Press Windows + I.
Step 2 – Go to Time & Language → Language & Region
Step 3 – Add a Keyboard Layout
Under Preferred languages, select your current language and click Options.
Step 4 – Click Add a Keyboard
Choose your desired layout (e.g., US, UK, Arabic, Japanese).
Step 5 – Switch Keyboard Layout Quickly
Press Windows + Spacebar to switch between installed layouts.
Changing Regional Format Settings
Want your dates to show as DD/MM/YYYY instead of MM/DD/YYYY? Here’s how.
Step 1 – Go to Settings → Time & Language → Language & Region
Step 2 – Scroll to Regional Format
Select your desired country or region.
Step 3 – Restart Apps (if needed)
Some apps may need to restart to reflect changes.
How to Change Language for Apps and Websites
Windows 11 also allows you to set app-specific languages.
Step 1 – Open Settings → Time & Language → Language & Region
Step 2 – Scroll to App Language
Under Preferred languages, drag your preferred app language to the top.
Step 3 – Relaunch the App
Most apps will adopt the new language automatically.
Changing Speech and Voice Recognition Language
If you use voice typing or dictation, you’ll want to adjust this too.
Step 1 – Open Settings → Time & Language → Speech
Step 2 – Choose Speech Language
Select your desired language from the drop-down menu.
Step 3 – Download Speech Pack (if needed)
Windows may prompt you to download additional files.
Removing a Language Pack
Don’t need a language anymore? Remove it.
Step 1 – Go to Settings → Time & Language → Language & Region
Step 2 – Click on the Language You Want to Remove
Step 3 – Select Remove
This deletes the pack from your system.
Common Issues When Changing Language (and How to Fix Them)
Sometimes things don’t go smoothly.
Language Not Changing After Installation
Sign out and sign back in, or restart your PC.
Keyboard Layout Keeps Switching Back
Remove unused layouts to avoid conflicts.
Language Pack Download Fails
Check your internet connection or update Windows.
Tips for Smooth Language Switching
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Always restart your PC after major language changes.
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Keep only the languages you use to avoid confusion.
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Sync language settings with your Microsoft account for consistency across devices.
How to Change Language Back to English (If You Don’t Understand the Current Language)
Stuck in a language you don’t read? Don’t panic.
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Look for the gear icon (Settings).
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Find the globe icon or “Time & Language” section (usually third or fourth option).
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Select Language & Region, then choose English.
Does Changing Language Affect Installed Apps?
Mostly, no. Apps often follow the system language, but some may require manual changes in their own settings.
Should You Install Multiple Languages?
If you’re multilingual, yes. But keep in mind that too many language packs can slow down updates slightly.
Final Thoughts
Changing the language in Windows 11 is straightforward once you know where to look. Whether you’re switching to your native language, adding a new keyboard layout, or simply adjusting regional formats, Windows 11 offers flexibility to suit your needs. Think of it as giving your PC a new personality—it’s the same device, but now it speaks your language.
FAQs
1. Can I set different languages for different users?
Yes, each user account can have its own language settings.
2. Do I need to restart after changing the language?
Usually, yes, for the display language to fully apply.
3. Is it free to download language packs?
Yes, all official Windows language packs are free.
4. Can I change the language on Windows 11 Home and Pro?
Yes, both editions support language changes.
5. Will changing language affect my files or data?
No, it only changes system and interface text, not your personal files.