How to Get a Classic Desktop Experience on Windows 10

Are you looking to bring back the classic experience of using Windows? With a few simple steps, you can transform your Windows 10 desktop to resemble older versions of the operating system. This guide will walk you through the process of making your Windows 10 desktop more customizable and traditional.

Step 1: Change the Start Menu to Classic Style

One of the most noticeable differences between Windows 10 and older versions lies in the Start Menu. You can customize it to be more classic through third-party tools. Install a Third-Party Tool: Consider using programs like Classic Shell or Open-Shell to customize the Start Menu. These tools allow you to adjust the start menu to a style similar to older Windows versions. Download and Install Open-Shell: 1. Visit the Open-Shell GitHub page to download the software. 2. Install the program and choose your preferred Start Menu style during setup.

Step 2: Disable Tablet Mode

Tablet Mode can affect the way the desktop looks and functions. To disable it and maintain a traditional desktop experience: 1. Go to Settings > System > Tablet. 2. Make sure Tablet mode is turned off.

Step 3: Adjust Taskbar Settings

The taskbar is another important element of the desktop. You can customize it to appear more classic by adjusting the following settings: 1. Right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings. 2. Adjust settings like combining taskbar buttons, hiding the taskbar in desktop mode, and more.

Step 4: Use Desktop Icons

Familiar desktop icons can make navigating the desktop more intuitive. Enable them by: 1. Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize. 2. Go to Themes > Desktop icon settings and check the boxes for icons like Computer, Network, and Recycle Bin.

Step 5: Change the File Explorer View

File Explorer’s view can be altered to be more like the default in older versions of Windows: 1. Open File Explorer and click on the View tab. 2. Select Options > Change folder and search options. 3. Under the General tab, set Open File Explorer to: to This PC instead of Quick Access.

Step 6: Use Classic Control Panel

For a more traditional look, you can access the classic Control Panel by: 1. Typing “Control Panel” in the Start Menu search bar. 2. Alternatively, press Windows R and type control.

Step 7: Adjust Visual Effects

Adjusting visual effects can further enhance the classic feel of your desktop. Follow these steps to disable some visual effects: 1. Right-click on This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings. 2. Under the Performance section, click Settings. 3. Adjust for best performance by disabling some visual effects.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can customize your Windows 10 experience to be more akin to classic Windows versions. Keep in mind that while you can achieve a more traditional look, some features of Windows 10 will remain. This method allows you to blend modern functionality with an old-school aesthetic.

For more detailed instructions and alternative tools, please refer to the official documentation or third-party resources.