Making Windows 10 look like Windows 7 is simpler than you might think. With a few tweaks, you can bring back the familiar look and feel of Windows 7. You’ll need to make changes to the Start menu, taskbar, window borders, and icons. Follow these steps, and you’ll be navigating your computer like it’s 2009 in no time.
How to Make Windows 10 Look Like Windows 7
In this section, we’ll walk you through transforming your Windows 10 interface to closely resemble Windows 7. By following these steps, you’ll adjust the Start menu, change the taskbar, modify window borders, and replace icons.
Step 1: Install Classic Shell
First, download and install Classic Shell to modify the Start menu.
Classic Shell is a free program that lets you customize the Start menu to look like Windows 7. Once installed, you can choose from various Start menu styles.
Step 2: Customize the Start Menu
Next, open Classic Shell settings to adjust the Start menu style.
In the settings, select the “Windows 7 Style” and personalize it with your preferred icons and settings. This will give you the familiar look and feel of Windows 7’s Start menu.
Step 3: Adjust Taskbar Icons
Now, right-click the taskbar to change the Taskbar settings.
Choose “Use small taskbar buttons” and set the taskbar location to “Bottom.” This makes the taskbar more compact, similar to Windows 7.
Step 4: Change Window Borders
To change window borders, download and install the “Aero Glass” for Windows 10.
This tool brings back the glass-like transparency of window borders that Windows 7 had. Configure it to achieve the desired transparency level.
Step 5: Replace Icons
Finally, get a Windows 7 icon pack and install it.
You can find various icon packs online. Replacing the default Windows 10 icons with these will complete the transformation to a Windows 7 look.
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 should now have the familiar Windows 7 appearance. You can enjoy the nostalgia while still benefiting from Windows 10’s improvements.
Tips for Making Windows 10 Look Like Windows 7
- Backup Your System: Before making any changes, create a system restore point. This ensures you can revert back if anything goes wrong.
- Use Reliable Sources: Only download tools and icon packs from reputable websites to avoid malware.
- Custom Themes: Explore different themes available online to further replicate the Windows 7 look.
- Taskbar Tweaks: Use the taskbar settings to color and adjust transparency to match the Windows 7 style.
- Stay Updated: Keep Classic Shell and other tools updated for the best performance and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert to the original Windows 10 look?
Yes, you can always uninstall the tools and revert settings to restore the original Windows 10 look.
Will these changes affect system performance?
These modifications should not significantly impact performance as long as your system meets Windows 10 requirements.
Are these tools safe to use?
Yes, as long as you download them from reputable sources. Always scan downloads for malware.
Do I need technical skills to do this?
Basic computer skills should suffice. The steps are straightforward and user-friendly.
Can I use Classic Shell on Windows 11?
Classic Shell is primarily designed for Windows 10, but alternatives like Open-Shell are available for newer versions.
Summary
- Install Classic Shell.
- Customize the Start menu.
- Adjust taskbar icons.
- Change window borders.
- Replace icons.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Making Windows 10 look like Windows 7 is a walk in the park if you follow these steps. Whether it’s the nostalgia of the old interface or the comfort of familiarity, these tweaks will make your computing experience more enjoyable. Feel free to experiment with different themes and settings to perfect the look. Remember to create a backup before diving into these changes and keep your tools up to date for the best experience. Enjoy your newly styled Windows 10, and happy computing!
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.