How to Make Windows 11 File Explorer Look Like Windows 10: A Guide

Making Windows 11 File Explorer Look Like Windows 10

Want to make your Windows 11 File Explorer look like the one you’re used to from Windows 10? It’s not too complicated. By tweaking some settings and using third-party tools, you can get that familiar look back. Let’s take a look at the steps to make that happen.

How to Make Windows 11 File Explorer Look Like Windows 10

In this section, we will walk you through the steps needed to transform your Windows 11 File Explorer so that it mirrors the look and feel of Windows 10. This process involves changing some registry settings and installing a third-party application.

Step 1: Back Up Your System

Before making any changes, back up your system to avoid any potential issues.

Backing up ensures that if anything goes wrong during the customization process, you can easily restore your system to its original state without losing data.

Step 2: Install ‘OldNewExplorer’

Download and install a third-party tool called ‘OldNewExplorer’ to get the classic look.

‘OldNewExplorer’ is a popular tool for customizing File Explorer. It allows you to revert the interface back to the style seen in Windows 10, making it an essential part of this transformation.

Step 3: Configure ‘OldNewExplorer’ Settings

Open ‘OldNewExplorer’ and adjust the settings to match Windows 10’s interface.

Once installed, run the program and make sure to check the boxes that modify the shell style and other UI elements. This will apply changes that closely mimic the Windows 10 File Explorer look.

Step 4: Modify the Registry

Edit the Windows Registry to disable the new context menu and restore the old one from Windows 10.

Open the Registry Editor (regedit.exe). Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionShell ExtensionsBlocked. Add a new string value and name it {e2bf9676-5f8f-435c-97eb-11607a5bedf7}. This will block the new context menu and restore the old one.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

After making all these changes, restart your computer to apply them.

Rebooting your system ensures that all the changes take effect properly. When your computer restarts, your File Explorer should now have a familiar Windows 10 look.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your File Explorer will have the look and feel of the Windows 10 version, making navigation and file management more familiar and comfortable.

Tips for Making Windows 11 File Explorer Look Like Windows 10

  • Backup Regularly: Always back up your system before making changes to avoid potential data loss.
  • Understand the Registry: Be cautious when editing the Windows Registry. Wrong changes can cause system issues.
  • Revert Changes if Needed: Keep track of what you change so you can easily revert back if something goes wrong.
  • Check for Updates: Ensure ‘OldNewExplorer’ and other third-party tools are always up-to-date.
  • Follow Trusted Sources: Only download customization tools from reputable websites to avoid malware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to customize Windows 11 File Explorer?

Yes, but always back up your data first and follow instructions carefully to avoid potential issues.

Can I undo these changes if I don’t like them?

Absolutely! You can uninstall ‘OldNewExplorer’ and revert the registry changes to go back to the default Windows 11 File Explorer.

Will these changes affect system performance?

No, these changes should not significantly affect your system’s performance.

Do I need administrator rights to make these changes?

Yes, you’ll need administrator rights to install ‘OldNewExplorer’ and modify the registry.

Can I customize other aspects of Windows 11?

Yes, there are various tools and settings that allow you to customize other aspects of Windows 11 to better suit your preferences.

Summary

  1. Back up your system.
  2. Install ‘OldNewExplorer’.
  3. Configure ‘OldNewExplorer’ settings.
  4. Modify the registry.
  5. Restart your computer.

Conclusion

Customizing your Windows 11 File Explorer to look like Windows 10 can make your computing experience more familiar and comfortable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a more classic look without much hassle. Remember to back up your system before making any changes, and be careful when editing the registry. If you encounter any issues, you can easily revert to the default settings.

Now that you have the steps and tips to make Windows 11 File Explorer look like Windows 10, why not give it a try? If you have any questions or run into any problems, consult the FAQs or seek help from trusted tech forums. Enjoy your newly customized File Explorer!