Windows 11 brings a fresh look and new features, but if you’re nostalgic for the simplicity of Windows 7, you can tweak a few settings and use some third-party tools to make your Windows 11 look like Windows 7. Read on to find out how.
How to Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 7
If you follow these steps, you’ll transform your modern Windows 11 interface to resemble the well-loved Windows 7. Though it won’t be exactly the same, the look and feel will be pretty close.
Step 1: Install Classic Shell
First, download and install Classic Shell.
Classic Shell is a free tool that can help you bring back the classic Start Menu and other familiar features from Windows 7. Once installed, you can customize the Start Menu to your liking.
Step 2: Change the Start Menu Style
Open Classic Shell settings and select the “Start Menu Style” tab.
Choose the Windows 7 style to mimic the classic Start Menu. You’ll also find options to adjust the Start Button, so it looks just like the one from Windows 7.
Step 3: Adjust Taskbar Settings
Right-click on the taskbar, click “Taskbar settings,” and switch to “Use small taskbar buttons.”
This setting will make your taskbar look more like the one in Windows 7. You can also disable some of the new features in Windows 11 to keep it simple.
Step 4: Download a Windows 7 Theme
Search for a Windows 7 theme for Windows 11, download it, and apply it.
There are various themes available that can help you get the Windows 7 look. These themes usually come with wallpapers and color schemes that are very similar to the original Windows 7.
Step 5: Customize Icons and Sounds
Download Windows 7 icons and change your system sounds to match.
You can find sets of Windows 7 icons online, and you can change your system sounds to the classic Windows 7 sounds. This will make your experience even more authentic.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 will look and feel much like Windows 7. You’ll notice the familiar Start Menu, taskbar, and overall aesthetic, making the transition much smoother for Windows 7 fans.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 7
- Backup Your System: Before making any changes, always back up your important files and create a system restore point.
- Use Reputable Sources: When downloading third-party software or themes, always use reputable websites to avoid malware.
- Customize Further: Take the time to explore additional settings in Classic Shell and other tools to make the interface perfect for you.
- Revert Changes Easily: If you change your mind, remember that most of these changes can be easily reverted by uninstalling the tools and themes.
- Stay Updated: Make sure that any tools or themes you install are compatible with the latest version of Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to the original Windows 11 look?
Yes, you can revert back to the original Windows 11 look by uninstalling Classic Shell and any themes you’ve applied. Simply follow the instructions for each tool to remove them, and your system will return to its default settings.
Is it safe to use third-party tools and themes?
Generally, yes, but it’s crucial to download these tools from reputable sources. Always check reviews and ratings before downloading, and ensure your antivirus software is up to date.
Will making these changes void my warranty?
No, customizing your Windows interface with tools like Classic Shell does not void your warranty. However, be cautious when installing third-party software.
Can these changes affect system performance?
These changes should not significantly impact system performance. However, overloading your system with too many visual tweaks and third-party tools could slow it down.
How do I change system sounds to Windows 7 sounds?
You can change system sounds by going to “Settings,” then “System,” and “Sound.” Here, you can browse and select different sound schemes, including those from Windows 7 that you can download online.
Summary
- Install Classic Shell
- Change the Start Menu Style
- Adjust Taskbar Settings
- Download a Windows 7 Theme
- Customize Icons and Sounds
Conclusion
And there you have it—your guide on how to make Windows 11 look like Windows 7! By following these steps, you’re well on your way to merging the best of both worlds: the sleek, modern functionality of Windows 11 and the nostalgic, user-friendly interface of Windows 7. Remember, change is good, but sometimes a little familiarity can go a long way in making your experience more enjoyable. Don’t forget to explore further customizations to make your desktop truly yours. Happy tweaking!
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.