PowerToys can be downloaded from Microsoft’s GitHub page. The app is free and open-source. Download the EXE file from the most recent release (avoid the Experimental releases) and click the file to install it.

To access the FancyZones settings after installing the app, open it from the System Tray on your taskbar.

Customize and Create FancyZones

With PowerToys installed, we can begin setting up the FancyZones. Open the app and click the “FancyZones” tab in the sidebar.

Before we do anything, make sure FancyZones is toggled on.

The first thing to do is to create your custom zone layout. This is where you’ll decide on how many zones you want as well as their sizes. Click “Launch Layout Editor.”

The Layout Editor includes a bunch of pre-made templates to choose from. Select how many zones you want at the top—up to 40—and then choose one of the layouts underneath.

If the pre-made layouts aren’t to your liking, it’s possible to create a custom layout. There are two ways to do this. First, select a template as a starting point, then click “Edit Selected Layout.”

Moving your mouse will control a divider line that will split the zone wherever you click. You can also drag the handle between zones to adjust their sizes. Give the template a name and click “Save and Apply” when you’re done.

The second method requires a little more effort. Switch to the “Custom” tab, select “Create New Custom,” and click “Edit Selected Layout.”

Click the big “Add New Zone” button to get started.

A transparent box will appear on the screen with the number “1” in the center. This represents the first zone in your layout. Drag it around and pull the edges to resize it.

Click the “Add New Zone” button again to get a new box, and repeat until the layout is done.

When you’re done creating zones, give the template a name and click “Save and Apply” to finish.

While you’re adjusting and selecting templates, you’ll see the zones previewed on your screen with translucent boxes. You can choose to have windows take up the full zone or have space around the edges.