This guide explains how to change the system language settings in Windows 11. It covers verifying available languages, adding a new language, setting preferences, and signing out to apply changes. Note that some elements may remain in the previous language or English.
Here's how to change the Windows 11 system language settings. The first step is to verify the language you want to switch to is available on your Windows 11 system. Go into “Settings” and click on “Time & language”. Select “Language & region”. The currently-supported languages should be shown under “Preferred languages”. To add a new language, click on “Add a language” and a list of available languages will appear. Each language has icons indicating its modifiable options such as “Display language”, “Text-to-speech”, “Speech recognition”, and “Handwriting”.
Search by name or scroll through the list to find the language you want. Double-click on the language you want to add and then click “Next”. Decide which of its features and preferences you want to have. This includes setting the new language as the default for your system. When ready, click on “Install” and wait for the process to complete. Once it’s done, you will need to sign out and back in again to apply the new display language changes. Remember to save any open work before doing so. When you sign back in, the operating system will be in your newly selected language.
Keep in mind that not all apps and system settings will be translated as some elements will continue to be in the previous language or English by design. If you have questions about changing your display language, contact us via one of the options on our support website.