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Windows 11, with its sleek and modern design, has been a significant leap forward in terms of aesthetics for Microsoft. However, for some, the familiarity and comfort of Windows 10‘s interface are hard to let go. If you’re among those who miss the classic look, there are several ways to infuse your Windows 11 with a touch of Windows 10.
Customize Windows 11 Taskbar
The first step in this transformation is to customize the Windows 11 taskbar. Microsoft has made several changes, including center-aligning the icons and introducing widgets and Chat icons. To revert to the left-aligned taskbar, navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and adjust the Taskbar alignment to ‘Left’.
This will automatically shift the Start menu to the left as well. Windows 11 also introduces a widgets section, which includes a weather icon by default. If you prefer a cleaner look, you can disable this feature by going to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and toggling off the switch next to Widgets.
Microsoft Teams
Similarly, you can remove the Microsoft Teams icon from the taskbar by deselecting Chat on the same settings page.
Third-Party Program & Apps
Next, you might want to change the Windows 11 Start menu design.
While Windows 11 does offer some customization options, to truly replicate the Windows 10 Start menu, you’ll need a third-party program. Open-Shell menu app is a free option that lets you install any Start menu style from Windows 7 to Windows 11.
There are also paid options like Stardock’s Start11 and StartAllBack, which offer a more seamless experience for a small fee. The desktop icons in Windows 11 are quite different from those in Windows 10.
To get your apps looking more like the Windows 10 versions, you can download an icon pack such as the Windows 10 Build 10125 icon pack from WinAero. You can then navigate to Settings > Personalization > Themes and adjust your desktop icon settings accordingly. One of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11 is the shift from Windows 10’s sharp corners to more rounded ones.
If you prefer the sharper look, you can revert this change using a third-party tool or by making changes to the Windows Registry or disabling your PC’s graphics driver. However, these methods come with risks and potential performance issues, so proceed with caution.
Wallpaper
Finally, to complete the transformation, you can change your wallpaper to a classic Windows 10 design. There are several online resources where you can download these, such as Imgur or Wallpaper.dog. After downloading, simply right-click on the image and select ‘Set as desktop background’.
In conclusion, while Windows 11 presents a fresh and modern look, it’s possible to bring back some of the familiar elements of Windows 10. With a few tweaks and adjustments, you can create a hybrid interface that combines the best of both worlds.
About the Author / Author Expertise
Amanda Reynolds is a passionate writer who recently graduated from journalism school, ready to make her mark in the world of technology and gaming. With a deep love for both fields, Amanda possesses a unique ability to blend her technical knowledge with her exceptional storytelling skills, captivating readers with engaging and informative content. Having grown up immersed in the world of video games, Amanda developed a profound understanding of the intricate mechanics and immersive narratives that make gaming a compelling art form.
Her extensive experience playing a wide variety of genres enables her to provide insightful analysis and reviews, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each game while delving into the larger cultural impact they have on society. In addition to gaming, Amanda’s fascination with technology led her to explore the ever-evolving landscape of digital innovations.
She stays up to date with the latest gadgets, software advancements, and tech trends, allowing her to translate complex concepts into accessible articles that resonate with readers of all backgrounds. Amanda’s enthusiasm for technology extends beyond the mere product reviews, as she explores the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and blockchain.
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