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Detailed Guide on How to Modify the Time Zone in Windows 11

September 28, 2024

The only thing worse than having jet lag when travelling outside your time zone is not having the accurate time on your device(s). 

Perhaps your system still reflects your previous time zone. This may cause you to miss some appointments or to oversleep.

If you’ve just updated to Windows 11, and you’re wondering how to change the time zone to reflect your current location, this article is for you.

Today, we’ll explain how to set the time zone automatically on Windows 11. We’ll also discuss the manual process and some common issues users face when adjusting their time zone settings on Windows 11.

What is Windows 11?

Windows 11 is the latest Microsoft Windows operating system, launched in 2021. It is free on all Windows 10 devices compatible with its requirements. 

Since its release, users have widely embraced Windows 11. It is currently the second most used Windows, with 29.71% use worldwide. People have praised its improved visuals, security, and Windows management. 

Some users, however, criticised eliminating certain features and the increased system requirements.

Also read: Microsoft Accuses Google and AWS of Cloud Licensing Misconduct

Features of Windows 11

Windows 11 introduced several significant features and updates that enhance functionality and aesthetics. Some of them are below:

  1. Taskbar: The Taskbar is centre-aligned with new animations and options for app pinning and switching.
  2. Notification Center & Quick Settings: These replace the Action Center and provide quick access to notifications, a calendar, and common PC settings like volume and brightness.
  3. File Explorer: The file explorer has been updated with Fluent Design. It also features new command bar, refreshed context menus, and improved accessibility.
  4. Redesigned User Interface
  5. Centered Start Menu by default
  6. Multitasking Enhancements

To learn more about the improved features of the Windows 11, check out this article.

Comprehensive Guide on How You Set Time Zone Automatically on Windows 11 and Manually

Once you have updated Windows on your device, adapting to its new features might take a while. A common challenge Windows 11 users face is changing their time zone. 

This section will answer that question. We’ll discover how you set time zone automatically on Windows 11 and how to set it manually. 

Also read: Microsoft Delays Widespread Release of Windows Recall

How to Change the Timezone on Windows 11 Manually

Follow the simple steps below to change the time zone on your Windows 11: 

  1. Open Settings on the Start menu
  2. Click “Time & language” on the left
  3. Click “Date & time.”
  4. Select your current time zone from the dropdown menu.

How You Set Time Zone Automatically on Windows 11

The automatic time zone switch on Windows 11 is disabled by default. To enjoy this feature, you’ll need to enable it in your Windows setting. Here’s how you set the time zone automatically on Windows 11: 

  1. Ensure your location setting is turned on 
  2. Open Settings on the Start menu
  3. Click “Time & language” on the left
  4. Click “Date & time”
  5. You will see “Set time zone automatically.” Click the toggle to switch it to On.

Having your time zone switched automatically is useful if you are a frequent traveller. It prevents you from working in the wrong time zone and also reduces the stress of manually adjusting your time. 

Also read: Nvidia surpasses Microsoft as the world’s most valuable company

Advantages of Windows 11

Wikipedia records that Windows 11 is the most widely used Microsoft Windows, after Windows 10. Why are customers attracted to Windows? Is it merely the new update fever? Or are there commendable features of this Windows? Let’s find out.

  • Windows 11 comes with Copilot, an AI assistant which helps users with relevant information. 
  • Gaming technologies like Auto HDR on Windows 11 allow users to play games with realistic visuals.
  • It comes with several layers of security to guarantee the protection of users’ apps, information, and identity. 
  • Snap Assist helps users organise their screen into a grid called a “snap.” 
  • Microsoft Edge is the default web browser in place of Internet Explorer. 
  • The Start menu has been redesigned.

Also read: Microsoft Enhances Security for Windows AI Software After Public Concern

Common Issues and Solutions: Windows 11 Time Zone Greyed Out

While Windows 11 has numerous advantages, it may also come with some challenges. One of the most common challenges users face with Windows 11 is changing their time zone. 

Some users find that they cannot change their time zones manually or automatically. 

When they open their settings to change their time zone, they discover that the Windows 11 time zone is greyed out. There are some potential causes for this, including:

  1. You are not logged in as an Administrator: The Windows 11 time zone could be greyed out because you are not an admin. This happens if there are multiple users on the system. Follow the steps below to gain admin rights:
  • Open Settings
  • Click “Accounts”
  • Click “Account details.” 
  • Check if “Administrator” is tagged under your name. If not, you don’t have admin access and must log in with an admin account.  
  • To gain admin rights, click Windows + R simultaneously, then type “cmd” into the Run box and click “Enter.” Next, type “net user administrator active: yes” and viola, you should have admin rights.
  1. Technical issues: Your system could have a configuration glitch. For more help, contact Microsoft support.
  1. Your location setting is turned off: To change your time zone, you need to turn on your location. This could be the reason your Windows 11 time zone is greyed out. 

Also read: Microsoft Unveils New AI-Powered Copilot+ PCs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Change the Time Zone on Windows 11?

Yes, you can change the Windows 11 time zone.

How Do I Change the Time Zone in Windows 11?

Follow the simple steps below to change the time zone on your Windows 11: 
Open Settings on the Start menu
Click “Time & language” on the left
Click “Date & time.”
Select your current time zone from the dropdown menu.
How you set the time zone automatically on Windows 11 is slightly different. When you follow the steps above and click “Date and Time,” you will see “Set time zone automatically.” Click the toggle to switch it to On.

How Do You Change the Time Type in Windows 11?

Follow the steps below to change the time type on Windows 11: 
Click “Start” 
Click “Control Panel”
Select Region in the Control Panel
Select your preferred format from the drop-down.

Conclusion: Your Device, Your Time

So there you have it. You now know how to set the time zone automatically on Windows 11 and how to set it manually as well.

You also know what steps to take if your Windows 11 time zone is greyed out.

Remember you can always contact Microsoft for support at https://support.microsoft.com/en-us.

Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, @SiliconAfriTech, for more tech tips.

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Oluwajuwon Oladiti
Oluwajuwon Oladiti

Oladiti Oluwajuwon is an ardent reader and a voracious writer who is passionate about informing the public with first-hand, authentic information. His writing expertise has spanned over 5+ years, an odyssey that began in 2018. Over the years, he has crafted pieces across multiple domains, including religion, education, politics, and tech. There are two principles at the core of his writing: information must be genuine and accurate, and there is nothing erudite about speaking in terms people don't understand. While maintaining technicality, messages must be passed in a way that resonates with the readers.

Oluwajuwon is also a software engineer who specializes in backend development with Python, and he has an unwavering passion for music, pop genre especially.

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