Windows 11 brings a fresh look with new features, but not everyone is ready to leap into this new world. If you miss the familiarity of Windows 10, don’t worry. You can customize Windows 11 to mimic the interface of Windows 10. By adjusting the Start menu, taskbar, and certain settings, you’ll feel right at home with your trusty Windows 10 look. Follow these steps to transform your Windows 11 experience back to something more familiar.
How to Make Windows 11 Look Like 10
In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through the steps to make Windows 11 visually similar to Windows 10. We’ll tweak the Start menu, adjust taskbar settings, and change some key settings.
Step 1: Adjust the Start Menu
Open the Start menu settings and select the layout that resembles Windows 10.
To do this, right-click on the Start button and go to “Settings.” Then, navigate to “Personalization” and click on “Start.” Choose the layout option that brings back the Windows 10 vibe.
Step 2: Move the Taskbar
Switch the taskbar alignment from center to left.
This is a simple change that makes a big difference. Right-click on the taskbar, select “Taskbar settings,” and find the option to align the taskbar to the left, just like in Windows 10.
Step 3: Use Classic Taskbar Icons
Download a third-party tool to restore classic taskbar icons.
Tools like Open-Shell can help you bring back the classic Windows 10 taskbar icons. Install the tool and follow the instructions to apply the changes.
Step 4: Change File Explorer Appearance
Switch to the old File Explorer layout.
Open File Explorer, click on the “View” tab, and select “Options.” Choose “Change folder and search options” and adjust the settings to bring back the classic look.
Step 5: Modify System Sounds
Change system sounds to match Windows 10.
Go to the “Sound” settings in the Control Panel, and swap the current sounds for those from Windows 10. This auditory tweak will make your system feel more like home.
After you make these changes, you’ll find that your Windows 11 setup now feels very much like the Windows 10 interface you know and love. The familiar look can make the transition smoother and help with productivity if you’re more comfortable with the older setup.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like 10
- Explore customization tools like Open-Shell for more options.
- Backup your system before making any major changes.
- Keep Windows updates on to ensure security doesn’t lapse.
- Test changes one at a time to ensure stability.
- Consider using third-party themes for more extensive customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert the changes if I don’t like them?
Yes, you can easily revert any changes made by adjusting the settings back to default or uninstalling third-party tools.
Will these changes affect system performance?
Most of these changes are cosmetic and shouldn’t affect performance. However, always ensure your system is backed up before making changes.
Do I need technical expertise to make these changes?
Not necessarily. These steps are designed to be user-friendly and straightforward.
Are there any risks involved in using third-party tools?
While most reputable tools are safe, always download from reliable sources and read reviews before proceeding.
Can I make these changes on any version of Windows 11?
Yes, these steps are applicable to all versions of Windows 11, but it’s always good to check for compatibility.
Summary
- Adjust the Start Menu layout.
- Move the taskbar to the left.
- Use classic taskbar icons.
- Change File Explorer appearance.
- Modify system sounds.
Conclusion
Customizing Windows 11 to look like Windows 10 is a breeze with the right guidance. These steps offer a simple solution for those who miss the old design but still want to enjoy the new features. The beauty of personalization is that it allows you to create a space that feels just right for you. In the end, whether you’re a die-hard fan of Windows 10 or just seeking a bit of nostalgia, these tweaks can make your new system feel like an old friend.
If you want to delve deeper into customization, there are countless resources online that explore everything from desktop themes to advanced user interface tweaks. Remember, technology should work for you, not the other way around. So, embrace the change, tweak to your heart’s content, and make your Windows experience uniquely yours.
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.