If you’re missing the familiar layout of Windows 10 after upgrading to Windows 11, you can easily make it look like the old version. With a few tweaks, you’ll get back the Start menu, taskbar, and overall feel of Windows 10. This guide will walk you through the steps.
How to Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
In this section, you’ll learn how to tweak various settings and install necessary tools to make your Windows 11 machine look and behave more like Windows 10.
Step 1: Install Open-Shell
First, you need to install Open-Shell, a free program.
Open-Shell is a tool that helps you customize the Start menu. Download it from its website, install it, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Configure Open-Shell
Next, configure Open-Shell to emulate the Windows 10 Start menu.
Open the Open-Shell Menu Settings, select the “Classic with two columns” style, and customize to your liking. This will bring back the familiar Start menu layout.
Step 3: Move the Taskbar Icons
Move the taskbar icons to the left.
Right-click on the taskbar, go to Taskbar settings, and select “Taskbar behaviors.” Change the “Taskbar alignment” to “Left.”
Step 4: Change the Icons
Replace default Windows 11 icons with Windows 10 icons.
You can download Windows 10 icon packs and use them to replace the Windows 11 icons through the Desktop Icon Settings and File Explorer options.
Step 5: Adjust the Taskbar Size
Adjust the taskbar size to match Windows 10’s.
You can edit the registry to change the taskbar size. Open the Registry Editor, navigate to “HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced,” and add a new DWORD (32-bit) value named “TaskbarSi.” Set the value to “0” for a small taskbar.
Step 6: Install Windows 10 Themes
Install themes that resemble Windows 10.
Search for Windows 10 themes online, download them, and apply them through the Settings > Personalization > Themes menu.
Step 7: Adjust the File Explorer
Make File Explorer look like it did in Windows 10.
You can use OldNewExplorer to tweak the File Explorer settings. Download and install the tool, and customize it to your preference.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 will have a much more familiar Windows 10 look and feel.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
- Backup Your System: Before making any changes, always back up your system to avoid losing important data.
- Be Cautious with Registry Edits: Incorrect registry edits can cause system issues. Follow instructions carefully.
- Use Trusted Sources for Downloads: Only download tools and icon packs from trusted websites to avoid malware.
- Check for Updates: Tools like Open-Shell and OldNewExplorer might get updates. Always use the latest versions.
- Revert Changes Easily: Familiarize yourself with how to revert these changes in case you want to go back to the Windows 11 default settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use Open-Shell?
Yes, Open-Shell is generally safe to use as long as you download it from the official website.
Will these changes affect system performance?
These changes are mostly cosmetic and should not significantly impact system performance.
Can I revert to Windows 11’s default look?
Yes, you can easily revert back to the Windows 11 default look by uninstalling the tools and themes you added.
What if I encounter issues?
If you encounter issues, you can use System Restore to revert your computer back to a previous state.
Do I need to pay for these tools?
No, Open-Shell and OldNewExplorer are free tools.
Summary
- Install Open-Shell.
- Configure Open-Shell.
- Move the taskbar icons.
- Change the icons.
- Adjust the taskbar size.
- Install Windows 10 themes.
- Adjust the File Explorer.
Conclusion
Changing the look of Windows 11 to mimic Windows 10 is pretty straightforward with the right tools and steps. By following this guide, you can bring back the classic Windows 10 feel that you might be missing. Remember to back up your system before making any changes and always download tools from trusted sources. If you ever want to go back to the Windows 11 look, the steps are easy to reverse. Enjoy your revamped interface and the nostalgic feel of Windows 10 on your Windows 11 machine! For more tips and tricks on customizing your computer, be sure to check out our other articles.
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.