Change Windows 11 Start Menu to Windows 10
If you’re not a big fan of the new Windows 11 Start Menu and prefer the old style from Windows 10, you’re in luck! You can tweak some settings to bring back that familiar layout. It involves a few changes in the settings and registry editor, which might sound a bit technical, but don’t worry. Just follow the step-by-step guide below, and you’ll have your Windows 10 Start Menu back in no time.
How to Change Windows 11 Start Menu to Windows 10
Transforming your Windows 11 Start Menu to resemble Windows 10’s classic look involves altering some settings and performing a few tweaks. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
First, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device. You can do this by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
Inside the Settings app, you’ll find various options to customize your PC. This is where you can start tweaking your Start Menu settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Once in Settings, click on ‘Personalization’ in the left menu. This section allows you to change the appearance of your Windows interface.
Under the Personalization tab, you’ll see options to modify themes, colors, and more. For the Start Menu, we’ll focus on some specific settings.
Step 3: Switch to Taskbar Settings
Scroll down and find ‘Taskbar’ settings within the Personalization menu. This is where you’ll adjust the alignment of your taskbar icons.
By default, Windows 11 places the Start Menu icon in the center. Changing this setting will give your taskbar a more Windows 10-like feel.
Step 4: Modify Registry Editor
Open the Registry Editor by typing "regedit" in the Start Menu search bar and pressing Enter. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced.
Here comes the technical bit. You’ll create a new DWORD value named ‘Start_ShowClassicMode’ and set its value to 1. This step is crucial for bringing back the Windows 10 Start Menu.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
After making changes in the registry, restart your computer to apply the changes.
A reboot will refresh your system, reflecting the changes you’ve made in the registry. Your Start Menu should now mimic the Windows 10 layout.
After following these steps, your Start Menu should look and feel like it did in Windows 10. This change will help you navigate your system more comfortably if you’re used to the older layout.
Tips for Changing Windows 11 Start Menu to Windows 10
- Always back up your registry before making changes to avoid unintentional damage.
- If you’re not comfortable using the Registry Editor, consider using a third-party tool designed for this task.
- Experiment with different taskbar settings for a setup that suits your preferences.
- Keep your system updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- Consider customizing your icons and wallpaper to enhance the Windows 10 aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing the Start Menu affect system performance?
No, altering the Start Menu settings or appearance does not impact system performance.
Can I revert to the Windows 11 Start Menu?
Yes, simply reverse the changes in the Registry Editor and taskbar settings to restore the Windows 11 Start Menu.
Is it safe to use the Registry Editor?
Yes, but proceed with caution. Always back up the registry before making any changes.
Do I need to restart after each change?
Generally, a restart is necessary only after making registry changes, not for simpler settings adjustments.
Can I customize the Windows 10-style Start Menu further?
Yes, you can customize it with different themes, colors, and icon arrangements to suit your style.
Summary
- Open the Settings App.
- Navigate to Personalization.
- Switch to Taskbar Settings.
- Modify Registry Editor.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Navigating the digital landscape with ease is crucial, and sometimes it takes a bit of customization to get things just right. By changing your Windows 11 Start Menu to look like Windows 10, you’re not only making your workspace more comforting but also tailoring your experience to match what you love. This step-by-step guide should have equipped you with the know-how to bring back a touch of nostalgia with the Windows 10 Start Menu.
If you’re new to tinkering with your system’s settings, remember it’s always wise to back up your registry before diving into the Registry Editor. Doing so ensures that you can always revert your system back to its previous state if needed.
For those who crave more customization, there are countless tweaks available to make your Windows experience truly yours. Whether it’s adjusting colors, themes, or taskbar settings, each change brings you closer to the perfect setup. So go ahead and experiment within your comfort zone. And if you ever feel like exploring more about the intricacies of Windows, there are plenty of resources and communities ready to offer support and advice.