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How to Make Windows 10 Look and Feel Like Windows 7

Key Takeaways

  • Customize the Start menu, taskbar, and desktop to replicate the Windows 7 look
  • Install third-party software to bring back familiar Windows 7 features
  • Tweak system settings to get the classic Windows 7 feel and functionality

As an experienced tech writer and Windows power user, I understand the desire to maintain a familiar and comfortable computing environment. While Windows 10 introduced many improvements, some users prefer the classic look and feel of Windows 7. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through various methods to make your Windows 10 experience more reminiscent of its predecessor.

Customizing the Start Menu

The Start menu is one of the most noticeable changes in Windows 10. To bring back the Windows 7 style, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click on the taskbar and select Properties.
  2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties window, navigate to the Start Menu tab.
  3. Check the “Use classic Start menu” option.
  4. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

This will replace the modern Start menu with a more traditional one, similar to Windows 7. However, it won’t be an exact replica.

Tweaking the Taskbar

The taskbar in Windows 10 also received a visual overhaul. Here’s how to make it look more like Windows 7:

  1. Right-click on the taskbar and select Properties.
  2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties window, navigate to the Taskbar tab.
  3. Uncheck the “Use Peek to preview the desktop” option.
  4. Uncheck the “Show Windows Store apps on the taskbar” option.
  5. Check the “Use small taskbar buttons” option.
  6. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

These tweaks will remove the modern taskbar features and give you a more compact, Windows 7-like taskbar.

Restoring the Classic Desktop

The desktop in Windows 10 also received some visual changes. To revert to the Windows 7 look, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
  2. In the Personalization window, navigate to the Themes section.
  3. Click the “Desktop icons settings” link.
  4. In the Desktop Icons Settings window, check the icons you want to display on the desktop.
  5. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

This will bring back the classic desktop icons, similar to Windows 7.

Installing Third-Party Software

While the built-in customization options in Windows 10 can help you achieve a more Windows 7-like experience, third-party software can take it a step further. Here are some popular options:

  • Classic Shell: This free software provides a highly customizable Start menu, taskbar, and desktop experience that closely mimics Windows 7.
  • Start10: This paid software from Stardock offers a range of customization options, including a Windows 7-style Start menu and taskbar.
  • Open-Shell: Another free option that brings back the classic Start menu and other Windows 7 features.

Tweaking System Settings

  • Disable transparency effects: Windows 10 introduced more transparency effects, which can be disabled for a more opaque look.
  • Disable action center: The action center is a new feature in Windows 10. You can disable it to remove the notification icon from the taskbar.
  • Disable Cortana: If you don’t use the Cortana virtual assistant, you can disable it to remove the search box from the taskbar.

By following these steps and utilizing third-party software, you can transform your Windows 10 experience to closely resemble the familiar Windows 7 interface. However, keep in mind that some modern features and functionality may be lost in the process.

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