Make Windows 11 Feel Like Home: A Step-by-Step Guide to Reverting to the Windows 10 Look

The arrival of Windows 11 has introduced a fresh, modern design with several new features and interface improvements. With its centered Start menu, rounded corners, updated icons, and sleek taskbar, Microsoft's latest operating system offers a refined user experience. While many users have embraced these changes, some long-time Windows enthusiasts may miss the familiar look and feel of Windows 10. Known for its left-aligned Start menu, sharp-cornered windows, classic icons, and more customizable Start menu layout, Windows 10 holds a special place in the hearts of many devoted users.

If you've recently upgraded to Windows 11 but find yourself longing for the familiarity of Windows 10's aesthetic and functionality, worry not! This comprehensive step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of modifying your Windows 11 desktop to closely resemble its predecessor. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the performance enhancements and new features of Microsoft's latest OS while retaining the classic look you've grown to love. Let's get started!

Step 1: Relocate the Start Menu and Taskbar Icons

Windows 11 introduces a centered Start menu and taskbar icons, which may be a significant change for long-time Windows users. To move these back to their original position, follow these simple steps:

Start Menu and Taskbar Alignment: Easily revert to the left-aligned Start menu and taskbar icons by adjusting the "Taskbar alignment" option in the taskbar settings.

Now your Start menu and taskbar icons will appear in their familiar left-aligned position.

Step 2: Remove New Icons from Taskbar

Windows 11 also adds some new default icons to the taskbar that you may want to remove for a cleaner look:

1. Right-click on an icon you want to eliminate (for example, Chat or Widgets).
2. Select "Unpin from the taskbar."

Copy these actions for all the other unwanted icons.

Step 3: Customize the Start Menu Design

To make the Start menu resemble its Windows 10 counterpart, follow these steps:

Classic Start Menu Appearance: Access Personalization > Start in your Settings app to disable "Show recently added apps" and "Show recommendations" for a simplified Start menu. This will remove unnecessary clutter from your Start menu.

Step 4: Change System Icons

To replace Windows 11's new system icons with those from Windows 10, perform the following steps:

1. Download a set of Windows 10 icons from a trusted source.
2. Extract the downloaded icon files to a folder on your computer.
3. Right-click on a shortcut or folder whose icon you want to change and select "Properties."
4. Click on the "Change Icon" button.
5. Browse to the folder containing the extracted Windows 10 icons and select the desired icon.
6. Click "OK" and then "Apply."

Repeat these steps for any other icons you wish to change.

Step 5: Disable Rounded Corners

Windows 11 introduces rounded corners for windows, which might not be everyone's cup of tea. To revert to sharp corners, follow these steps:

1. Download and install the third-party tool WinAero Tweaker.
2. Launch WinAero Tweaker and navigate to Appearance > Disable Rounded Corners.
3. Check the box next to "Disable rounded corners for windows."
4. Restart your computer.

Your windows will now have sharp corners like in Windows 10.

Step 6: Change the Wallpaper

To complete the transformation, set a Windows 10 wallpaper as your desktop background:

1. Download a Windows 10 wallpaper from a trusted source or use one you already have saved.
2. Right-click on an empty space on your desktop.
3. Select Personalize > Backgrounds.
4. Under "Choose your background," click "Browse" and select your downloaded Windows 10 wallpaper.

Now you have successfully transformed your Windows 11 desktop into something more reminiscent of Windows 10!

Where to Go From Here: Further Customization and Exploration

While this guide covers some of the most apparent visual changes in Windows 11, there are many more customization options available, such as modifying system sounds or tweaking File Explorer's appearance with third-party tools. Feel free to explore further and make adjustments that suit your preferences best, ensuring that you feel right at home with your new operating system!