If you are among those who find comfort in the classic design of Windows 7, you’ll be thrilled to discover how to transform the new Windows 11 user interface into a nostalgic throwback. I’ve updated this guide to ensure that the information is current, aiming to help you navigate this customization seamlessly. Appreciate the beauty of blending the old with the new by making Windows 11 look like Windows 7.
Detailed Guide to Give Windows 11 a Windows 7 Facelift
Switching to Windows 11 doesn’t mean you have to surrender to its modern UI changes. Some users prefer a more familiar desktop environment – akin to the classic Windows 7 – right from the Start menu’s layout to the File Explorer’s appearance. I’ll walk you through various adjustments to achieve that desired classic look.
Reverting Windows 11 Start Menu to Windows 7 Style
Reviving the Windows 7 Start menu aesthetic on Windows 11 is simpler than you might expect. Below are the steps:
- Firstly, verify that you’re running at least Windows 11 build 22000.XXX, as the tools we recommend require this. You can find your OS build number in the Settings app under System -> About.
- Install StartAllBack (requires purchase, $4.95 per PC) if you want an automated process. It will instantly align the Start menu to the left and adapt the taskbar icons to be in line with Windows 7 style.
- In the StartAllBack settings under the ‘Start Menu’ tab, you can further refine the look, adjusting icon sizes and the overall visual style. Note, live tiles are not supported in Windows 11.
- If StartAllBack isn’t suitable, consider Start11 (also paid) as it supports various Windows 11 builds and provides similar customization options.
- Alternatively, for a quick fix without any third-party software, navigate to Personalization -> Taskbar -> Taskbar behaviors in Settings and select “Left” for the Taskbar alignment.
Adapting the Windows 11 Taskbar to Match Windows 7
The taskbar is central to the Windows experience. Here’s how to make the Windows 11 taskbar resemble the one in Windows 7:
- Again, StartAllBack comes in handy for changing the taskbar size and icon spacing to mimic Windows 7 style.
- You can disable app icon combining by setting “Combine taskbar buttons” to “Never” within StartAllBack, giving each application its own space as in Windows 7.
- If you prefer to move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen, regedit changes are necessary. Look up how to customize the taskbar in Windows 11 for instructions.
Reinstating the Classic File Explorer and Context Menu
For users who prefer the ribbon interface of Windows 7’s File Explorer or the straightforward context menu without the “Show more options” hindrance, registry tweaks and dedicated software can revert these features to their classic states:
- To recover the old File Explorer layout, use registry edits as detailed in guides focused on reverting changes in Windows 11.
- A downloadable registry file allows you to restore the classic context menu with a few clicks. After downloading and merging this file, restart your computer to see the changes.
Vanishing Widget Panels and Transparency Effects
Windows 11’s widgets and transparency effects may not please everyone. Here’s how to turn them off:
- Disable widgets in the Personalization -> Taskbar settings. There’s also an option to deactivate Teams Chat integration from the same menu.
- To get rid of transparency effects, toggle off the respective settings in Personalization -> Colors and also under Accessibility -> Visual Effects.
Final Thoughts on Revamping Windows 11 with Windows 7 Charm
The charm of Windows 7 can be relived through the customization of Windows 11’s user interface. This article, How to Make Windows 11 UI look like the UI of Windows 7, provided you with the essential information to make this transition. If there’s anything unclear, feel free to reach out via the contact forum. If you found this guide helpful, please share it to spread this blast from the past.
