Changing Windows 11 to the classic view can make the new operating system feel more familiar. To do this, you’ll need to tweak some settings and make a few modifications. This guide will walk you through each step to give Windows 11 a more classic look and feel.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Changing Windows 11 to Classic View
By following these steps, you’ll be able to transform your Windows 11 interface into something that resembles the classic Windows look.
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to the Start menu and click on the “Settings” icon.
Settings is where you’ll find most options to tweak your system. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Win + I to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
In the Settings window, click on “Personalization.”
This section contains options for changing wallpapers, colors, themes, and more. It’s the hub for all appearance-related settings.
Step 3: Select Themes
Under Personalization, click on “Themes.”
Themes allow you to change the overall look of your desktop. Here, you can select different themes or create a new one that mimics the classic view.
Step 4: Choose a Classic Theme
Scroll down and select a theme that closely resembles the classic view.
If a pre-made theme is not available, you can create a custom theme. Choose neutral colors and classic Windows backgrounds to get a similar feel.
Step 5: Modify Start Menu
Right-click the Start button and select “Settings.”
In the Settings menu, you can customize the Start menu to look more like the classic version. You can pin or unpin apps, resize the menu, and remove unnecessary tiles.
Step 6: Adjust Taskbar Settings
Right-click on the Taskbar and select “Taskbar settings.”
You can move the taskbar to the left and turn off unnecessary features like widgets. This will make the taskbar look more like it did in older versions of Windows.
Step 7: Install a Classic Shell
Download and install a classic shell application.
Classic Shell applications can dramatically change the look of your interface to closely resemble older versions of Windows. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
After you complete these steps, your Windows 11 should now have a more classic view. You’ll notice the Start Menu, Taskbar, and overall appearance look more like previous versions of Windows, making it more familiar and easier to navigate.
Tips: Changing Windows 11 to Classic View
- Backup Settings: Always backup your current settings before making changes. This way, you can revert back if needed.
- Use Trusted Software: Only download classic shell apps from reputable sources to avoid malware.
- Explore More Themes: Look for additional themes online that might better suit your preference.
- Customize Icons: Change desktop icons to classic ones for a more cohesive look.
- Trial and Error: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings until you get the perfect classic view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to the default Windows 11 view?
Yes, you can always go back to the default settings by selecting the original themes and reverting any changes you made.
Is it safe to use third-party classic shell applications?
Generally, yes, but make sure to download them from reputable sources to avoid malware or other issues.
Will changing to a classic view affect my system’s performance?
For the most part, no. These changes are mainly cosmetic and should not affect system performance.
Do I need administrative privileges to make these changes?
Some changes may require administrative access, especially installing third-party applications.
Can I apply these changes to a specific user account only?
Yes, most settings can be configured on a per-user basis, so you can have different setups for different accounts.
Summary of Changing Windows 11 to Classic View
- Step 1: Open Settings.
- Step 2: Navigate to Personalization.
- Step 3: Select Themes.
- Step 4: Choose a Classic Theme.
- Step 5: Modify Start Menu.
- Step 6: Adjust Taskbar Settings.
- Step 7: Install a Classic Shell.
Conclusion
Changing Windows 11 to classic view is a great way to bring a familiar look to your new operating system. Whether you’re nostalgic for earlier versions of Windows or just prefer a simpler interface, these steps help you achieve that classic look. Remember, you can always revert back if you change your mind. Happy customizing!
By following this guide, you’ve taken control of your Windows 11 experience. If you’re interested, delve deeper into other customization options. The possibilities are endless, and with a little bit of tweaking, you can create a desktop environment that suits all your needs.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.