In Windows 7, Microsoft offered the transparent glass visual effect, allowing you to make the taskbar transparent. However, you won't find such an option in Windows 11.

You can hide your taskbar using Windows 11 settings, but that won't hide it completely. The only way to do that is to use a third-party application.

To make the taskbar hide automatically when not in use, hit "Automatically hide the taskbar." To modify the Start Menu icon, press Start button style and then Windows 11.

Unlock the full potential of the Windows 11 taskbar with this guide. Learn how to customize it for a seamless and productive desktop experience ...

On the right side, scroll down and click on Taskbar. Choose Taskbar behaviors. Uncheck the Show hover cards for inactive and pinned taskbar apps option to disable the hover cards.

To make the taskbar fully transparent and achieve a cleaner aesthetic I use the TranslucentTB app, which you can download for free from the Microsoft Store.