How to Make Windows 10 Look Like Windows 7 with These Easy Steps

Greetings, Windows users! Have you recently upgraded to Windows 10 but miss the look and feel of Windows 7? Fear not, as we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7. In this article, we will share with you 12 easy steps to give your Windows 10 the familiar and classic appearance of Windows 7. But before we dive in, let us understand why some users prefer the old layout. While Windows 10 comes with many appealing features and enhancements, the new interface can be overwhelming for users who have grown accustomed to the layout of Windows 7. The vibrant live tiles, flat icons, and the start menu are significant changes, and some users may find them confusing and challenging to navigate. If you’re having trouble adjusting to the new interface and miss the old, familiar setup, then this guide is for you. Let’s get started with the steps to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7.

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The following steps outline how to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7. Follow them carefully, and you will be able to turn your Windows 10 into an old-school classic without much difficulty.

Step 1: Install Classic Shell

The first step is to install Classic Shell, which replaces the new start menu with the classic layout of Windows 7. Unlike the new menu, it displays the programs in a list format, making them easier to navigate. Classic Shell also offers several customization options and skins to choose from, allowing you to personalize the start menu as you like it. After downloading Classic Shell, run the installer and follow the prompts to customize the start menu to your liking.

Step 2: Change the Desktop Background

To make your Windows 10 desktop look like Windows 7, you need to set the desktop background to the classic Windows 7 wallpaper. To do this, right-click on the desktop and select “Personalize.” Next, click on “Background,” and choose the Windows 7 wallpaper from the list.

Step 3: Disable Live Tiles

One significant difference between Windows 7 and Windows 10 is the live tiles. These animated tiles display information from the respective app, which can be overwhelming for some users. To remove the live tiles, go to the start menu, right-click on each tile, and select “Unpin from Start.” Alternatively, you can right-click on the tile and select “Turn live tile off.”

Step 4: Use Small Icons on Taskbar

By default, Windows 10 uses big taskbar icons, which can take up significant screen real estate. To make your taskbar look like Windows 7, you need to change the icon size to small. Right-click on the taskbar, select “Taskbar Settings,” and toggle the “Use small taskbar buttons” option.

Step 5: Disable Cortana

Cortana is a personal assistant that helps you perform tasks and search for files on your computer. While it may be helpful for some users, it can also be a distraction. If you prefer a distraction-free environment, you can disable Cortana by clicking on the search bar, selecting the settings icon, and toggling “Cortana can give you suggestions, ideas, reminders, alerts, and more.”

Step 6: Use Windows 7 Aero Theme

The Aero theme was first introduced in Windows 7, and many users loved it. While Windows 10 has its theme, you can still use the classic Aero theme on your Windows 10 computer. To do this, right-click on the desktop, select “Personalize,” and choose the “Windows 7” theme from the list.

Step 7: Change Icon Appearance

Windows 10 features flat icons, which are a significant change from the three-dimensional icons in Windows 7. To make your Windows 10 icons look like Windows 7, you need to download and install the Classic Shell Icon Package. This package contains over 30,000 icons, including the familiar Windows 7 icons. After downloading the package, extract it to a folder, and use the Classic Shell UI to apply the new icons.

Step 8: Use Windows 7 Sounds

The sounds in Windows 7 are iconic and recognizable. To make your Windows 10 sound like Windows 7, you need to download and install the Windows 7 sound theme. You can find this theme by searching online or on the Microsoft website. After downloading the sound theme, unzip it and install it on your computer. Then go to the sound settings and select the Windows 7 sound theme.

Step 9: Use Windows 7 Cursors

Windows 7 cursors are also iconic and recognizable. To make your Windows 10 cursors look like Windows 7, you need to download and install the Windows 7 cursor pack. You can find this pack by searching online or on the Microsoft website. After downloading the cursor pack, extract it to a folder and use the Mouse Properties dialog box to apply the new cursors.

Step 10: Disable Action Center

The Action Center is a new feature in Windows 10 that displays notifications and alerts. If you prefer a distraction-free environment, you can disable the Action Center by clicking on the notification icon, selecting “All Settings,” clicking on “System,” and toggling “Show me tips about Windows.”

Step 11: Set Windows Explorer Appearance to Windows 7

Windows 10 features a new Windows Explorer interface, which may be confusing for users accustomed to the classic Windows 7 setup. To make the Windows Explorer window look like Windows 7, you need to download and install the Windows 7 Explorer theme. After downloading the theme, extract it to a folder and use the Classic Shell UI to apply the new theme.

Step 12: Use Windows 7 Fonts

The last step is to use the classic Windows 7 fonts on your Windows 10 computer. Windows 7 used the Segoe UI font, while Windows 10 uses the new Segoe UI font. To make your Windows 10 look like Windows 7, you need to download and install the Windows 7 font pack. After installing the font pack, go to the font settings and select the Windows 7 font.

Penjelasan

We hope you found the 12 steps above helpful in making your Windows 10 look like Windows 7. It’s essential to note that while these steps may make your Windows 10 look like Windows 7, some features may not be available. Additionally, we suggest you carefully test each step before applying it to your computer. Some of the steps may require you to modify system files, and if done incorrectly, they may cause issues with your computer. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, we recommend seeking assistance from a reputable computer technician.

Tips and Tricks

Here are ten tips and tricks to help personalize your Windows 10 computer further.

1. Use Windows 7 Gadgets

Windows 10 does not support gadgets, but you can download and install the Windows 7 gadget platform to use Windows 7 gadgets on your Windows 10 computer.

2. Change Taskbar Color

You can change the taskbar color by going to the Start Menu > Settings > Personalization > Colors and selecting a suitable color.

3. Use Old-Style Control Panel

Windows 10 features a new-style settings app, but you can still access the old-style control panel by right-clicking on the start menu and selecting “Control Panel.”

4. Disable Edge Browser

If you prefer to use a different web browser, you can disable the Edge browser by going to the Start Menu > Settings > Apps > Apps & Features > Microsoft Edge > Uninstall.

5. Use Windows Media Player

If you prefer the classic Windows Media Player, you can install it on your Windows 10 computer. Download and install the Windows Media Player from the Microsoft website.

6. Customize Windows 7 Toolbar

You can customize the Windows 7 toolbar by right-clicking on it and selecting “Toolbars > Customize.”

7. Disable OneDrive

If you do not use OneDrive, you can disable it by right-clicking on the OneDrive icon and selecting “Settings > Account > Unlink OneDrive.”

8. Use Classic Games

Windows 7 came with classic games such as Chess Titans and Minesweeper. You can download and install these games on your Windows 10 computer.

9. Customize Taskbar

You can customize the taskbar by right-clicking on it and selecting “Taskbar Settings.” From there, you can customize the taskbar as per your liking.

10. Use Windows 7 Start Menu Button

The Windows 10 start menu button is different from the Windows 7 button. You can download and install the Windows 7 start menu button to use on your Windows 10 computer. Finally, these are just a few tips to get you started on personalizing your Windows 10 to look like Windows 7. Feel free to explore more customization options and make your Windows 10 unique to your liking. In conclusion, we hope you found this guide informative and helpful. By following the above steps, you can make your Windows 10 look like Windows 7 and enjoy the familiar, classic interface.

Advantages of Making Windows 10 Look Like Windows 7

Many users prefer the classic and familiar look of Windows 7 over the modern and sleek appearance of Windows 10. Here are the advantages of making your Windows 10 look like Windows 7:

1. Familiarity

Users who have been using Windows 7 for a long time may find the new layout of Windows 10 overwhelming. By making it look like Windows 7, users can still enjoy the same classic interface that they are used to.

2. Compatibility

Sometimes, certain software or applications may not be compatible with Windows 10. By making it look like Windows 7, users can reduce compatibility issues and errors that may arise.

3. Productivity

Windows 7 is known for its simplicity and ease of use. Users who prioritize productivity over aesthetics may prefer the classic look of Windows 7 over Windows 10’s modern design.

4. Taskbar Customization

Windows 7’s taskbar allows for more customization options than Windows 10’s taskbar. By making Windows 10 look like Windows 7, users can still enjoy the benefits of a customizable taskbar without compromising on compatibility.

5. Improved Performance

Some users have reported that emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 can result in improved performance and faster boot times.

6. Saves Time

Learning a new interface can take time and effort. By making Windows 10 look like Windows 7, users can save time as they do not have to invest in learning a new interface.

7. Reduced Eye Strain

Sometimes, the modern design of Windows 10 can cause eye strain and fatigue. By making it look like Windows 7, users can reduce the strain on their eyes and improve their overall experience.

8. Retro Charm

The classic look of Windows 7 has a certain charm and nostalgia attached to it. Users who value retro aesthetics may prefer the old-school appearance of Windows 7.

9. Enhanced Privacy

Windows 10 has been criticized for privacy concerns. By making it look like Windows 7, users can reduce the amount of data that is being collected by Microsoft.

10. Cost-Effective

Not everyone can afford to upgrade to Windows 10. By making it look like Windows 7, users can enjoy the same benefits of Windows 10 without having to pay for the upgrade.

Disadvantages of Making Windows 10 Look Like Windows 7

While there are several advantages to emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10, there are also a few disadvantages:

1. Limited Future Updates

Emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 may limit the ability to download and install future updates and features that are essential to the functionality of the operating system.

2. No Support

The emulation of Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 is not officially supported by Microsoft. Users who encounter problems or errors may not be able to receive technical support from Microsoft.

3. Security Risks

Running an older interface on a newer operating system may compromise the security of the system. Users may be at risk of cyber attacks and viruses due to potential security vulnerabilities.

4. User Interface Division

Emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 may divide the user interface and create confusion among users who may be using different versions of the same operating system.

5. Partial Emulation

Not all aspects of Windows 7’s interface can be emulated on Windows 10. Users may have to compromise and adjust to minor differences that may be present in the emulation process.

6. Outdated Design

While the classic design of Windows 7 may be charming and nostalgic, it is also outdated in terms of modern design trends and aesthetics.

7. Potential Data Loss

Emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 may cause potential data loss and corruption due to compatibility issues and errors that may arise.

8. Reduction in Features

Windows 10 offers several new and improved features that are not present in Windows 7. Emulating Windows 7’s interface may limit the ability to utilize these features and reduce overall functionality.

9. Compatibility Issues

While emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 can reduce compatibility issues with certain software, it may not guarantee complete compatibility as some software is designed specifically for Windows 10.

10. Time-Consuming

The process of emulating Windows 7’s interface on Windows 10 can be time-consuming and may require technical expertise. Users who do not have the time or expertise may encounter difficulties and errors during the emulation process.

FAQ

1. What is the need to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7?

For people who are comfortable and used to the interface of Windows 7, using Windows 10 might be a bit of a challenge. Therefore, to make the transition easier, they can make Windows 10 look like Windows 7.

2. Is it possible to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7?

Yes, it is possible to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7 with the help of various customization software.

3. What are the customization tools required to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7?

You can use various customization tools like Classic Shell, StartIsBack, and Rainmeter to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7.

4. Is Classic Shell free to use?

Yes, Classic Shell is free to use and can be downloaded from the official website free of charge.

5. How do I install Classic Shell?

Visit the Classic Shell website and download the setup file. Run the setup and follow the installation instructions.

6. Can I uninstall Classic Shell if I don’t like it?

Yes, you can easily uninstall Classic Shell from the Programs and Features section in the Control Panel.

7. What is StartIsBack?

StartIsBack is a customization tool that brings back the classic start menu in Windows 10 and makes it look like Windows 7.

8. Is StartIsBack a free software?

No, StartIsBack is not a free software. It has a 30-day free trial after which you have to purchase the license to continue using it.

9. How do I install StartIsBack?

Visit the StartIsBack website and purchase the license. After purchasing, you will receive a download link. Download the setup file, run the installer, and follow the installation instructions.

10. How do I uninstall StartIsBack?

You can easily uninstall StartIsBack from the Programs and Features section in the Control Panel.

11. What is Rainmeter?

Rainmeter is a customization tool that allows you to create and display various widgets on your desktop.

12. Is Rainmeter a free software?

Yes, Rainmeter is a free software that can be downloaded from their official website.

13. How do I install Rainmeter?

Visit the Rainmeter website and download the setup file. Run the setup and follow the installation instructions.

Conclusion

Overall, changing the look of your Windows 10 to resemble Windows 7 can give you a more comfortable and familiar experience, making your transition to the new operating system less frustrating. By using themes, adjusting settings, and downloading the Classic Shell program, you can bring back the simplicity and functionality of Windows 7. This can enhance your productivity and enjoyment while using your computer without compromising the speed and latest features that Windows 10 provides.

Closing

So, if you’re missing the iconic start menu or the minimalist design of Windows 7, follow the steps above to make your Windows 10 look like Windows 7. It’s a simple and effective way to customize your operating system to your preferences and can make a significant difference in how you use your computer daily. Thank you for reading, and we hope this guide has been helpful in making your desktop experience more enjoyable!

See you soon!