How to Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

how to make windows 11 look like windows 10

If you’re someone who really misses the look and feel of Windows 10 but you’ve upgraded to Windows 11, don’t worry. You can customize your Windows 11 to make it resemble Windows 10. This involves tweaking a few settings and installing some third-party software. Follow these steps, and before you know it, your Windows 11 will have the familiar vibe of Windows 10.

How to Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10

Ready to transform your Windows 11 into the more familiar Windows 10 interface? Here’s how you can do it step-by-step:

Step 1: Install Open-Shell

The first step is to download and install Open-Shell, an open-source software that lets you customize the Start Menu.

Open-Shell is great for bringing back the classic Windows 10 Start Menu that we all know and love. Once you’ve downloaded it, follow the installation prompts and then customize the Start Menu to look similar to Windows 10.

Step 2: Customize the Taskbar

Next, you’ll want to move the Taskbar icons to the left side, just like in Windows 10.

Right-click on the Taskbar, go to "Taskbar settings," and set "Taskbar alignment" to "Left." This will move all your Taskbar icons to the left, making it look more like Windows 10.

Step 3: Change the Start Menu Layout

In this step, change the layout of the Start Menu to match Windows 10 by using registry tweaks.

Press Win + R, type regedit, and navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value and name it Start_ShowClassicMode, then set its value to 1. Reboot your computer to see the changes.

Step 4: Adjust File Explorer

Modify File Explorer to look more like the one in Windows 10.

Install a tool like OldNewExplorer, which can bring back the traditional Windows 10 ribbon and other familiar elements in File Explorer. Follow the prompts to set it up.

Step 5: Change System Icons

Finally, change system icons to match those in Windows 10.

You can download a Windows 10 icon pack from the internet and replace the Windows 11 icons by right-clicking on the desktop, going to "Personalize," and then "Themes." Click on "Desktop icon settings" to change the icons to those from Windows 10.

After completing these steps, your Windows 11 interface will look and feel much like Windows 10, complete with the beloved Start Menu and Taskbar alignment.

Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10

  • Always back up your system before making any changes, just in case something goes wrong.
  • Keep your software updated to avoid compatibility issues.
  • If you’re not comfortable editing the registry, look for third-party tools that can do it for you.
  • Consider using a Windows 10 theme to make the visual transition complete.
  • Look for community forums and YouTube tutorials for additional customization tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to install third-party software for customization?

Yes, but always ensure you’re downloading from a reputable source to avoid malware.

Will these changes affect my system’s performance?

Generally, no. These customizations are lightweight and shouldn’t slow down your PC.

Can I revert back to the original Windows 11 look?

Absolutely. You can uninstall the third-party software and revert the settings to default.

What if a Windows update reverses my changes?

You may need to re-apply some settings or re-install certain software after major Windows updates.

Do I need technical skills to make these changes?

Basic computer skills are usually sufficient, but always read instructions carefully.

Summary

  1. Install Open-Shell.
  2. Customize the Taskbar.
  3. Change the Start Menu Layout.
  4. Adjust File Explorer.
  5. Change System Icons.

Conclusion

There you have it! With these steps, you should now have a Windows 11 setup that looks and feels just like Windows 10. While some may find this a bit tedious, the effort is well worth the sense of familiarity and comfort it brings. Remember, it’s your computer and you should have it look and feel the way you want it to.

For further reading, you might want to check out community forums or video tutorials on customizing Windows 11. These resources can offer additional tips and tricks that can enhance your experience. So go ahead and make your Windows 11 feel just like home!