Tag: Windows 11

Microsoft’s desktop OS gains some fantastic new features and beautiful design upgrades with the latest version of the operating system called the Windows 11 operating system and which was introduced last year, but nothing is made simpler. A good example is the procedure for changing default apps. The difficulties of switching the default web browser from the Microsoft Edge browser to, say, the very popular Google Chrome or Firefox, outraged IT experts who follow Windows. Months after the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has responded to these complaints and made it simpler to change your preferred browser. If you are someone who faced difficulties switching the default applications then this article is meant for you as today we will demonstrate how to adjust that setting as well as how to alter other Windows 11 default programmes.

In comparison, it’s always been simple to select, for instance, a default music player in Windows 10 (which many people still use). To begin, in the Default Apps area of the settings, select the programme listed below a function (such as Email, Music Player, Photo Viewer, or Web Browser). Then, select a new default app that supports the media type. All you have to do is that.

How to Modify Windows 11’s Default Apps

Let’s check out the way to modify the default applications of the new Windows 11 operating system.

1. Open the Settings app, then select the Apps option from the menu on the left. Compared to Windows 10, the Settings app is more difficult to find. You must look for a grey gear icon in Windows 11. In Windows 11, the Settings icon is not automatically present but can be added.

2. Select Default applications. Every application on your computer is listed in Windows 11. You can perform a search for an app or the file type you want to link to an app.

3. You may view a list of all the file types an app is capable of processing by clicking on the app you wish to select as the default for a certain file type.

4. To change the default app for a certain file type, click on it. Then, a menu similar to the one below appears.

5. Simply selecting an app from the list is the final step. In addition, Microsoft did not apply rounded corners to this app selection dialogue box, making it one of the few window kinds. You must then repeat the procedure for each type of file you want to use with that application.

6. Another method for changing the default app is to right-click on a file in File Explorer, select Open With from the context menu (which is more consistently and conveniently the second option in Windows 11), and then select the Choose another app option. By checking the box next to “Always use this app to open [extension] files,” the identical app selection window that was displayed during the first process is now visible. Just click OK after checking the box.
A Simpler Approach, Just for Browsers

A new button comes on the Default Apps page of Settings with the April 2022 release. It should be noted that on one of our test Windows 11 systems, an optional upgrade was required: Cumulative Update for Windows 11 for x64-based Systems (KB5011563).

If the app is a web browser, the default settings interface is the same as what was previously mentioned. In that situation, you’ll get the following choice when you’re on the browser’s default app settings page:

Simply click the Set Default button located on the right side of this screen. Here, Opera, a dependable alternative programme, has been set as the default web browser. The same holds true for Brave, Chrome, Vivaldi, and other web browsers. However, you still need to set a default for each file type the application may open for other non-browser types of programmes.

Alternatively, you can install it.

In order to use the first technique, you must be aware of the file types you wish to deal with, but I assume the majority of PC users are already aware that JPG is an image and DOC is a document. Nevertheless, because Windows 10 allows you to accomplish this for all pertinent file types at once, changing default programmes is still simpler in version 10 than in version 11. During the setup process of some programmes, you can choose to have this done automatically. Examples include VLC, a media library Swiss Army knife, and Firefox, a well-known web browser with a privacy-focused design.

Firefox

Firefox on Windows 11 prompts you to choose whether you want it to be your default browser when you launch it for the first time. Firefox keeps displaying a banner with this prompt across the top of the browser window if you don’t choose this option on the first time. During testing, selecting either the choice from the banner or the one at startup completed the task without any hassle.

VLC Media Player

A classic open-source programme known for its ability to play virtually any media file is called VLC. VLC is set as the default media player for over 70 file types when VLC is chosen to be the default media player during installation. Sadly, the Groove music app and Movies & TV app continued to be the only ones that could open certain crucial file types (note that the latter is being replaced by a new Windows 11 Media Player). File Extensions Association is a preference in VLC that merely directs you to the Settings > Apps > Default Apps section as was previously stated.

So this is how you can able to customize Windows 11 operating system and you can follow our tutorials to know more about the operating system.

Windows 11 is the latest version of the operating system by Microsoft for computers and the new operating system has been introduced with many changes on the board. The company has done a massive change in the taskbar and Microsoft tried to refresh each and every element of the operating system. However, if you didn’t like the latest Windows 11 after switching from Windows 10 then this article is meant for you.

Well, if you didn’t impress with the new design and the makeover of the latest operating system of Microsoft then you can able to downgrade from Windows 11 and go back to your favourite Windows 10 operating system. The tech giant Microsoft has made a straightforward option to make you return two Windows 10 and the same can be done on the Settings page of the latest windows 11 operating system. When you upgrade your computer from Windows 10 operating system to the latest Windows 11 operating system, the computer keeps a copy of Windows 10 and the validity of the copy is 10 days, so you can revert to the previous version of the operating system comfortably. Keep in mind that if you return to the old version of the operating system from Windows 11, you may need to reinstall several apps and programmes. That means the items which you saved on your PC while running Windows 11 will not be carried over to Windows 10. If you are ok with this, then read on.

Steps to downgrade from Windows 11 to the Windows 10 operating system,

As I mentioned above, Microsoft provides you ten days of time to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 and you can do the same by following the steps which are listed below.

• First of all, you need to make sure that you are going to downgrade from Windows 11 in less than 10 days of upgrading the computer. You need to open the Settings application by clicking on the start menu of the computer which is running on Windows 11.
• After that, click on System and select> Recovery. You should see Return to the beginning: If this version does not work, revert return to Windows 10. To proceed, click the Back button.
• Now you will get a pop-up box that will ask the reason for the downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 operating system. Check your response and then click Next.
• Then your computer will offer next pop-up offers installing the most recent updates to resolve any issues you’ve encountered. Click the option called No, thank you button to skip that step.
• The following pop-up warns you that you won’t be able to use your PC until the process is complete, that you’ll have to reinstall some apps and programmes, and that you’ll lose any changes you made to your settings after installing Windows 11. Click Next to continue.
• The following popup urges you to remember your password in order to avoid being locked out. Next, click.
• Microsoft thanks you for trying Windows 11 in the next popup. Click Return to Windows 10.
• The procedure has finally begun. It may take some time to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10, so be patient. Sign into your recovered Windows 10 environment after the downgrade is complete. You should look for any applications you installed or settings you updated in Windows 11 to see if they need to be reinstalled or changed.

That’s it! This is how you can downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 operating system within 10 days of time.

After 10 days, downgrade

However, if you want to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 operating system after 10 days then you need to follow some other steps to perform the task. You may use a simple Microsoft command line tool to check the number of days remaining and even extend the deadline to as many as 60. (Opens in a new window). So let’s check out the way to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 after 10 days of validity.

You need to type cmd into the search field. Click the Run as administrator link in the search results to launch a command prompt with administrative privileges.

Now enter DISM /Online /Get-OSUninstallWindow at the command prompt. The number following the phrase Uninstall Window denotes the number of days remaining.

To extend the deadline, type: DISM /Online /Set-OSUninstallWindow /Value:days>, replacing days> with the number of days you want to apply. To set the downgrade deadline to 25 days, use DISM /Online /Set-OSUninstallWindow /Value:25. You can set the deadline to as few as two days or as many as 60.

Then, using the up arrow key, bring up the DISM /Online /Get-OSUninstallWindow command. Enter to rerun that command and confirm that the number of days you specified is now in effect. You can now return to Settings and use the Go back command whenever you want before the new number of days expires.

So this is how you can able to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 operating system. If you find any doubts then do let us know in the comments section below. Keep browsing our website for more tips and tricks to make your life easy.

Do you have a Windows powered computer that frequently freezes, crashes, or issues in performance? It may be an unreliable piece of hardware, an odd driver, or even a subpar application. Start the operating system in Safe Mode, which opens Windows in a clean, immaculate, barebones manner by stopping specific drivers and other programmes from launching, to figure out the root of the issue on a Windows 10 or 11 PC.

If Windows runs smoothly in Safe Mode, it usually signifies that a certain driver, service, or other plugin that would ordinarily launch automatically is at fault.
There are a few potential dangers and challenges before you try to restart your computer in Safe Mode, most of which rely on the kind of Windows account you use.

First, avoid choosing a Safe Mode that does not load network drivers since a Microsoft account requires network access to login. If you do, you might not be able to enter your password to log in.

Second, establish a different authentication method in addition to your password. For use in the event that the password sign-in is not available or isn’t functioning under a certain Safe Mode setting, options include a PIN, image password, fingerprint recognition, face recognition, and/or security key.

Third, some of the alternate authentication techniques might not function depending on the Safe Mode option you select. You’ll have to use your standard password to get in in that scenario.

Fourth, you should make sure your regular password is accessible if you’re using a Microsoft account in case the other authentication methods are unavailable. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in choices in Windows 10 or 11 to accomplish this. Locate the setting by saying Turn off Windows Hello and only permit Microsoft account sign-in on this device (Recommended) to increase security. If you want to switch back to a standard bootup after using Safe Mode, you can always turn it back on.

The best way to launch Windows in safe mode

1. Click the search bar or icon at the bottom of your screen in Windows 10 or 11. Input the msconfig command and hit Enter.

2. The System Configuration tool is also accessible from the Start menu. In Windows 10, select the Start button, navigate to the Apps section, and select the Windows Administrative Tools folder. Select the System Configuration shortcut.

3. Click the Start button in Windows 11 and then select the All Apps link. Select the Windows Tools option by navigating to the bottom of the Apps list. Double-click the shortcut for System Configuration in the Windows Tools screen.

4. Your current setting in the System Configuration box is most likely Normal Startup or Selective Startup. The Safe Mode setting you should test first if you’re using a local account is Diagnostic startup, which loads only the most fundamental drivers and services. The drivers and services for audio, networking, and certain other features won’t load with this choice, so you won’t be able to use or test those features. Therefore, avoid using the Diagnostic startup with a Microsoft account as you won’t be able to sign in.

5. Choose the second Diagnostic startup option if you are logged in with a local account. Press OK. Click the Restart button on the System Configuration message to restart your computer right away.

Secure Booting

Sign back into Windows after your computer has restarted and try to duplicate the problem you were having. Whether or whether the problem persists, you’ll need to conduct additional testing to narrow it down. Relaunch the System Configuration tool. Select the Boot option. Select the Safe boot option. Under Safe Boot, there are four options.:

• Minimal loads the absolute bare minimum of drivers required for Windows to function while still bringing you to the GUI so you can use your mouse to navigate.

• You’ll need to know how to open Windows without the GUI available for this one because Alternate Shell launches Safe Mode with the command prompt.

• Computers connected to Microsoft’s Active Directory in a business setting have the option of using Active Directory Repair.

• In order to access and verify network connectivity, Network loads the appropriate network drivers in the Windows GUI.

The Minimal and Network options are the most useful for the average person seeking to solve an issue. If you’re using a local account, select Minimal, and Network if you’re using a Microsoft account or need network connectivity to troubleshoot the problem. Restart your computer and sign in again with your password. Then attempt to duplicate the problem.

If the problem goes away, you can always enter System Configuration again and attempt booting into Normal mode to check if the problem is truly gone. Otherwise, some of the other choices in System Configuration’s Boot section may be useful. No GUI, Boot log, Base video, or OS boot information may be used with Diagnostic startup or Safe boot. You can enable any or all of the following four options:

• No GUI Boot—No GUI Boot just eliminates the animated dots during startup, which is ineffective for troubleshooting.

• Boot Log—A boot log is a particular text file that displays you which drivers were loaded and which were not loaded at startup, making it a useful choice for troubleshooting. Restart your computer after enabling the Boot log. Log in to Windows. Open File Explorer and navigate to the following file: C:\Windows\ntbtlog.txt. Check the file for each driver’s status.

• Base Visual—Instead of the drivers for your unique video card or hardware, Base Video loads the drivers for common VGA graphics. As a result, this option is useful for troubleshooting issues with your graphic display.

• As your computer boots up, OS boot information displays a list of drivers and other information.

Reboot your computer with each option checked one by one and see if the problem goes away after you log back in.

Quickly Booting to Safe Mode

1. Other ways to enter Safe Mode are available in Windows 10 and Windows 11. To access the recovery option in Windows 10, navigate to Settings > Update & security. Select Restart now by clicking the Restart now option in the Advanced Startup section. Open the Recovery menu in Windows 11 by going to Settings > System. Select Restart now by clicking the Restart now option in the Advanced Startup section.

2. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings in the box for Choose an option. Restart by clicking the button.

3. On the next starting settings screen, press one of the keys numbered 1 through 9 to select a startup type, such as 1 to enable debugging, To enable safe mode like wise. Click the button to restart. After logging back into Windows, try to replicate the wrong behaviour.

 

Don’t upgrade to Windows 11 if you don’t want to buy a new computer or give up your beloved, functional interface. Everything works exactly as well—and in some cases, even better—on Windows 10. You’ll never see a Microsoft Windows upgrade that isn’t greeted with vehement criticism, and while Windows 11 hasn’t seen as much scepticism as some earlier iterations of the operating system, it doesn’t mean everything is perfect. Its hardware specifications have been the main point of contention. Long-term users continue to get incensed by minor complaints about UI changes that amount to “someone moved my cheese.” Windows 11 functions mostly in a similar way to Windows 10 does. The software it uses is identical, and the peripheral hardware it supports is identical as well. However, there are a number of good justifications for delaying the Windows 11 upgrade.

Like the majority of desktop operating systems, whether they are produced by Apple or Microsoft, the goal of a new edition is to persuade you to purchase a new machine. Since upgrading your current hardware doesn’t bring in any money for these IT behemoths, they are less interested in seeing you do it. It’s not a big adjustment to move between Windows 10 and Windows 11, even though I still prefer to use Windows 10 and have used Windows 11 extensively. However, there are several factors that may make you want to stay on the tried-and-true version of Windows 10 rather than upgrade to Windows 11. The fact that Windows 10 did a lot of things right and Windows 11 messes them up is the root of many of the arguments. Please feel free to add further justifications in the comments section below.

1. For Windows 11, you might need to buy a new computer.

When Windows 11 first launched, the new hardware requirements caused the largest stir among Windows commentators. The demand for a more recent CPU was the more common barrier to upgrading, according to my experience, but the need for a TPM security chip received a lot of digital print. I tested a total of three or four PCs, all of which had TPM chips but older-than-required CPUs. Additionally, if your computer still uses a 32-bit processor, which is extremely uncommon, you won’t be able to install the OS because it only supports 64-bit Intel/AMD and Arm processors.

All of that is related to updating current PCs. There are still other reasons to get a computer that runs Windows 10 if you’re in the market for one, as you’ll see below. There is still a good selection of computers with Windows 10 already installed, and Windows 11 can be downgraded to Windows 10.

2. Better Taskbar in Windows 10

For some users, it’s a huge issue that Windows 10 allows you to display taskbar buttons that are wider and more informative, as well as to position it across the bottom, on the side, or even at the top of the screen. Both are lacking in Windows 11. The entries in 10 are consistently at the same location. The icon locations, even the location of the Start button, change as apps are opened and closed in 11 if the default centre alignment is used. Fortunately, Windows 11 allows you to left-align the taskbar, which fixes that final problem, but the others still exist. Another issue is that, unlike Windows 10, the Taskbar calendar does not allow you to add or view events. Another is that it doesn’t provide as much drag-and-drop support as its predecessor. Microsoft is going back on this decision, bringing the feature back in upcoming editions of Windows 11, yet when I try to drag a file onto an app icon in the taskbar, I still get the universal No symbol.

3. The Start Menu in Windows 10 Is Better

The new Windows 11 Start menu does not display recently installed or commonly used applications. It provides the ambiguous “Suggested” programmes that may be based on those criteria, but I haven’t found it as useful as Windows 10’s obvious sections for those categories. The icons in 11 do not display any app information like the tiles in Windows 10. The previous operating system also provides quick access to Power (Shut down, Restart, and Sleep) and the Settings app.

4. Windows 11 lacks an always-available search box.

Yes, you can bring up the search box in Windows 11 by clicking a Taskbar icon or pressing Windows Key-S, but there’s nothing like having it there all the time, in the same area, waiting for your inquiries. This is available in Windows 10, right next to the Start button. The business has even begun to decorate the right side of the box with amusing topical illustrations, a rare indication that Microsoft is still improving Windows 10.

5. Windows 11’s Tablet Performance Isn’t as Good as Windows 10’s

I’ve written about the difficult experience of using Windows 11 on a tablet, and while Microsoft claims to have improved it, I find the reverse. Swiping in from the left and right in Windows 10 brings up the highly handy Task view and Action. You could close an app by pulling your finger down from the top of the screen, and apps defaulted to full screen, which makes sense on a tablet. Windows 11 features whole new motions that require several fingers. Though these are more Apple-like, I doubt they will convert many iPad users to Surface Go customers.

6. Windows 11 necessitates the use of a Microsoft Account.

There are no Mac users who do not sign in to an Apple account, nor are there any Chromebook or Android users who do not check in to a Google account. However, some Windows users are adamant about avoiding signing into an account on their computer. If you are one of these persons, there is no reason for you to update to Windows 11. At least according to the Home version. The Pro edition does not have this need, though based on test releases, it appears that this loophole will be closed in the future.

You only need to sign in once during setup for the Home version. After that, you can select a local account to use for regular PC usage. Similar to other operating systems, utilizing a Microsoft account while using the OS gives you access to OneDrive backup, Store apps, Xbox games, Microsoft Family parental controls, and Phone Link, which lets you use the features of your Android phone on your PC.

7. The Action Center is no longer available in Windows 11.

Instead of the neat all-in-one Action Center for alerts and quick settings, Windows 11 divides its tasks in a disconnected, seemingly illogical manner, mirroring the jumbled splay of notification boxes seen in macOS (though not quite that bad). In Windows 10, you may modify the sound by tapping the speaker symbol, change the Wi-Fi by using the Wi-Fi button, and check your battery status by tapping the battery indicator. These conveniences are grouped together in Windows 11, so pressing the sound icon pulls up the battery and Wi-Fi options, which you don’t need. In this instance, Windows 11 is less efficient.

8. There’s no need to hurry; you still have three years.

What’s the rush to upgrade to Windows 11 when Microsoft will continue to support Windows 10 until October 2025? If you’re happy with Windows 10, as I am, there’s no incentive to update. Since the release of version 11, I’ve noticed additional features introduced to version 10. Possessing stated that, some people enjoy having the most recent items and designs. I’ve had no issues with Windows 11—I used it solely for a month while working remotely—and there are clearly tempting features, such as the redesigned appearance and more-soothing system noises. However, if you choose, you may maintain Windows 10 for the time being, and many of us will.

9. File Explorer matters

Microsoft has tried many things to make Windows 11 attractive and interesting but the right-click context menus was good in the Windows 10 operating system and that is one of the biggest reason to not upgrade your computer to the latest version of the Windows operating system.

10. You will miss some interesting elements

The developers of Windows 11 have done many things to make the operating system modern and avoid the many interesting features of Windows 10. You will not able to get the Timeline as well as Live Tiles in the latest version of the Windows operating system. If you love those interesting features then this is another reason for you to not upgrade your computer to Windows 11.

You take a photo using your phone and want to see it on a larger screen. You receive a text message but don’t want to take out your phone to respond because you’re working on your computer. Well, the latest Windows 11 operating system has a solution for this and Windows 11 enables users to view the photo or respond to text message or calls on the computer without taking the Android smartphone from pocket.

All you need to connect your Android smartphone to your Windows 11 computer. Most impressively, some Android phone models allow you to run many mobile apps on your computer at the same time as well. It is worth mentioning that the iPhones are not supported for this particular feature. But users who are using macOS can able to text and call from their desktop. Apple’s silicon-based Macs are far more advanced, as they can run mobile applications.  Windows users can now claim at least parity with Microsoft’s mobile-to-desktop capabilities, which was upgraded in March.

You can connect an iPhone to a computer running Windows 11, but you won’t get the same level of experience that Android users receive. Microsoft has claimed that it wants to offer the same functionality that iPhones have to Windows, but Apple has traditionally been unwilling to free people from their dependence on its products. Having said that, an iPhone can be connected to a Windows PC for basic file-transfer functionality. However, in this article, we will demonstrate how to connect an Android phone and a Windows 11 PC for a more robust mobile-and-desktop integrated solution.

Anyways, let’s come back to our topic to connect your Android smartphone to your Windows 11 PC to carry out various activities without touching the smartphone.

 What is Required to Begin

During its initial setup, Windows 11 asks you to connect your smartphone. We’ll walk you through the process and call out a few items you should be aware of before you begin, assuming you didn’t do so at the time.

Installing the Link to Windows app from the Google Play Store on your phone and signing in with the same Microsoft account you use on your PC are two requirements that are crucial. The app comes preinstalled on some phones. Since the Phone Link programme comes preinstalled on every Windows 11 PC, there are no issues on the PC end of the connection.

Another requirement is that the phone be in Bluetooth and WiFi range of the PC since, while display and control occur on the PC, the apps continue to function on the phone.

Furthermore, Android 7 or later is required to enable Android-to-Windows 11 capabilities. Any PC running Windows 11 is compatible. We utilised a Surface Laptop 3 and a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra to put the system through its paces. In terms of functions, the phone model is more essential than the PC model.

Microsoft has simplified its phone-linking method with the latest version. Phone Link is a PC app, whereas Link to Windows is a mobile app. Link to Windows previously only worked with some Samsung models and Surface Duo phones (Opens in a new window) (some Honor models were recently added for users in China). These devices will continue to gain functionality, such as the ability to mirror Android apps on a PC. This is distinct from Windows 11’s much-touted ability to run Android apps, in which the apps actually operate on PC hardware.

Finally, the Link to Windows system can be installed on various PCs for the same phone, so if you switch between a desktop at home and a laptop on the go, it will operate on both.

 How to connect your Android smartphone to your Windows 11 PC in Steps

•  On your Windows 11 PC, launch the Phone Link app. This is the first page of a four-step setup process.
•  Enter your Microsoft account information. If you already signed in to an account during PC setup, just accept the account in the wizard.
•  Download and install the Link to Windows mobile app. You may acquire it by searching for it in Google Play or by typing www.aka.ms/yourpc(Opens in a new window) into your mobile browser. On newer Samsung and Surface Duo phones, click down the Quick settings shade and select Link to Windows. Long-press it to access the syncing options.
•  Connect your phone and PC. You can pair via a QR code or by typing a text code presented in the PC’s Phone Link app into the phone’s companion app. Remember to use the in-app camera to scan the QR code in the Link to Windows app on the phone. That’s it once you’ve completed either pairing procedure. You’re done!

What Are Your Options for a Connected Phone?

As previously said, the fancier features are limited to specific phone models, but connecting to any Android phone you set up allows you to receive and respond to text messages, see and manage notifications, make and answer calls, and see images on the computer instantaneously.

Microsoft has changed the app’s UI to display primary features (Messages, Calls, Apps, Photos) across the top. When you click on the system tray icon, you now see recent apps as well as a View All Apps link. Notifications are hidden in a panel on the left.

The number of notifications that are waiting for you is displayed on a badge in the taskbar item for Phone Link. You may decide which apps to receive notifications from and whether to respond on the phone or the PC. Additionally, not all events take place within the app. In the lower-right corner of the screen, in the Windows Notification toast, you can reply to messages directly.

You won’t see the Apps area in the top menu if your phone is not one of the more advanced models. Accessing text messages and photographs from your phone on your PC is one of the most practical functions, and it works with any Android device. Even with less sophisticated models, you can see images on your PC immediately after taking them with your phone and drag them into a document or another tool that works with photos, like Photoshop.

So what are you waiting for? Use this method to connect your Android phone to your Windows 11 PC and enjoy the freedom of accessing messages calls and photos on the computer and the same will not interrupt your working flow as well.

Windows 11 is the latest version of the operating system by Microsoft and the same power millions of computers around the world. Microsoft has introduced the new Windows 11 operating system with a new user interface along with a modern approach in each and every element of the operating system.

However, not everyone will like the change that Microsoft has implemented. Some folks discover they long for Windows 7’s earlier versions and its totally different aesthetics from those times.

If you are someone who wants to have a look of Windows 7 on your Windows 11 powered computer then this article is meant for you. We will guide you to the way to make Windows 11 appear more like Windows 7. The process can be done with a couple of weeks and with the help of a free tool. With this, you’ll have the best of both worlds: a contemporary, safe operating system and a vintage appearance. So without making any further delay let’s dive into the article to check out the steps to make your Windows 11 computer look like Windows 7.

Steps to make Windows 11 look like Windows 7

1. Relocating the Start button and other apps to the taskbar’s centre may be the most visible change in Windows 11. For those who would rather have things the way they were before, Microsoft has thankfully made it simple to relocate it back to the left side of the screen.

Search for the Taskbar Behaviors section by right-clicking a taskbar area that is empty and choosing Taskbar settings. Select the Left option from the Taskbar alignment drop-down menu by clicking it. All of the taskbar buttons, including the Start button, will be oriented to the left.

2. The Start menu from Windows 11 will still appear when you press the Start button, which is a small victory. However, by installing StartAllBack, you may nearly resemble Windows 7’s appearance and feel. The full version of the app costs $4.99, but there is also a free trial version available.

Choose the Remastered 7 option in the Welcome area after downloading and installing the software. By working your way through the Start Menu, Taskbar, Explorer, and Advanced areas of the software, you may further customize things while restoring the Windows 7 Start menu and taskbar immediately.

3. You have the option of adding fly-out menus for numerous objects as well as selecting which shortcuts will be shown in the Start Menu section. The Start button and other taskbar components’ appearances can be changed in the Taskbar area.

By deselecting the Use improved classic jumplists option when you right-click on a taskbar button to keep the more contemporary menu, you can mix features of Windows 11 and 7. The Classic context menu setting, which lets you switch between Windows 11’s old-style and new-style right-click menus, is one of the additional options in the Explorer area.

4. Microsoft has been encouraging users to use the Settings app instead of the Control Panel for some time now, and the transition has been ongoing. While this makes sense most of the time, you might miss the days of the Control Panel.

Although it is still possible to access this in Windows 11, it is not at all clear how to do so. There are other ways to access the Control Panel, but the simplest one is likely to open the Run dialogue by hitting Windows + R simultaneously, typing control, and then pressing Enter. If you want to make it simpler to access in the future, you can pin it to the taskbar by right-clicking the taskbar icon while it is running.

5. It’s fun to personalise your desktop with a photo you took or any image you like. However, if you want to go any further back in time, you can restore the basic Windows 7 wallpaper.

Unfortunately, Microsoft did not include this image with Windows 11, but it is available for download from a variety of websites, including the Windows Wallpaper Wiki. After downloading img0 (or Harmony), right-click an empty area on the desktop, pick Personalize, and then click Background. Navigate to the folder holding the photograph you just saved by clicking the Browse images option.

6. Windows 11 has additional components and functions that were not present in Windows 7, which means there are countless unnecessary pieces scattered about that you may not require.

Windows 11’s taskbar, for example, includes shortcuts to Search, Task View, and Widgets. If you don’t want them, you can remove them entirely by right-clicking an empty portion of the taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings. Use the toggles in the Taskbar items section to disable any buttons you want to conceal.

7. Because of a bizarre change in Windows 11, you can no longer drag and drop items onto the taskbar to create a shortcut, or drag and drop files onto a taskbar button to open them in the related app – but you can change this by modifying the registry. Enter regedit after pressing Windows + R.

Create a new entry called UndockingDisabled by going to HKEY LOCAL MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Shell\ Update\Packages, selecting Edit > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and then clicking. To enable the new drag and drop functionality, double-click this new item and give it a value of 1 before restarting your computer.

8. Rounded edges are one of the aesthetic improvements Microsoft made to Windows 11, and it’s not something that appeals to everyone. Although it is not a built-in feature, the appropriately called Win11DisableRoundedCorners can be used to disable rounded corners on windows and programmes.
Double-click the downloaded application to start it. Click the More info link and then the Run anyhow button after Microsoft Defender SmartScreen appears. Round corners might then need to be swapped with square ones by clicking a User Account Control confirmation. If you change your mind, you can use the tool again to get them back.

9. Widgets are a feature of Windows 11 (click Windows + W to open the Widget panel), whereas Gadgets were a feature of Windows 7. Even though they are no longer officially supported, Gadgets can still be restored in Windows 10 with 8GadgetPack.

When you install this free tool, the Gadgets bar will show up on the right side of your screen. You may download it here. To add any tools or information panels that catch your eye, right-click a blank area and choose Add gadgets from the menu that appears.

10. The free programme Glass2k, which you can download here, is the only option if you want to replicate the Aero transparency effects utilized throughout Windows 7.

Once installed, you can choose the transparency level by selecting the title bar of any open window or running application with the right click menu. Glass2k will keep different settings for various apps and windows so you don’t have to continually fiddling with settings. You can enable Glass2k to start automatically with Windows.

So this is how you can make your Windows 11 computer look like Windows 7. If you find this useful then do share the same with your near and dear ones.

The Remote Desktop software in Windows is not well known, although it would almost likely be significantly more widely utilised if it were. In a nutshell, Remote Desktop allows you to control your Windows 11 machine from a remote location.

While this feature is primarily intended for commercial and technical users, such as remote working or providing remote support, it may also be used for easier tasks such as operating your upstairs computer from your laptop downstairs.

With Windows 11, you can connect to and control another pc remotely over the internet from a different device or location. To make a connection or grant access to another, you must first activate remote desktop and make changes to several built-in options.

With the latest Windows 11 operating system, you can utilise Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), and the same is akin to the previous version. This particular feature’s settings enable you to manage another person’s computer or server without really being there. Once enabled, you can use the “Remote Desktop store app” or the “old Remote Desktop Connection app” to remotely control an external computer. To control other devices on a Local Area Network (LAN) or over the internet, you can use the Remote Desktop software on Windows 11. The app, however, may only be a piece of the puzzle depending on where the computer is placed because other configurations are required to make the connection work.

So without making any further delay let’s get into the guide to get started with Remote Desktop in Windows 11.

First of all, you need to open the Settings application in your computer and the same can be done by hitting the Start button, then Settings, or by using the Windows + I keyboard shortcut. After that, navigate to the System area on the left and then select Remote Desktop on the right side of the screen.

Now you need to toggle the Remote Desktop toggle to the On position to enable Remote Desktop in the computer which is running on Windows 11. You will get a pop-up asking if you want to authorise the function; just click Confirm to continue.

You will notice a small button with a downward-pointing arrow is located to the right of the toggle. Additional options will show if you click this particular button, but you shouldn’t modify these settings unless you have a specific need to.

By default, Remote Desktop requires devices to use Network Level Authentication in order to connect, but if this proves difficult or if you have a complicated network arrangement, you can display it by unchecking the option box. Windows displays the port number used by Remote Desktop below this in case you need to make a note of it.

Now you will see a new setup when Remote Desktop is enabled, displaying the name of your computer. You will need this information later on to make a connection.

It’s possible that you selected the name of your computer or that you already know it, and that name is also used to identify it on your home network. If you need to alter the name for any reason, go back to the System section of Settings, click the Rename link in the upper right corner of the window, type a new name, and then click Next. When prompted, restart Windows when you have finished.

Now that you’ve enabled Remote Desktop, you can connect to and control your computer remotely using a variety of programmes. Windows has its own Remote Desktop Connection software, which can be accessed in the Start menu, so we’ll start there.

Launch the software from a second computer’s Start menu and enter the name of the machine you want to connect to. You can now proceed by clicking the Connect button, or you can configure extra parameters as explained in the following step.

The username you want to connect with can be entered by clicking the arrow next to Show Options. Choosing the size of your remote session window and the appropriate colour depth may both be done using the slider on the Display tab.

On the Local Resources tab, you can specify what resources—such as printers and clipboard contents—should be shared between devices as well as how audio should be handled between remote and local sessions. Use the Experience tab to scale back the visual choice if your connection is sluggish. To establish a connection, select Connect.

The login information for the computer you are attempting to connect to must be entered; this is simply your Windows login password. After doing so, click OK.

You should now be logged into your second PC and ready to run Windows 11 within a window.

Simply click the close symbol to end remote access, and a dialogue box will appear asking you to confirm that you want to end the session.

The connection will end once you click OK.

It is worth mentioning that Microsoft’s Remote Desktop programme is also available for mobile devices, so you may operate your PC from your smartphone or tablet if you like.

Both the Android and iOS (opens in new tab) versions of the software are free to download and operate in the same manner as the PC app that we have already analyzed.

So this is how you can able to use a remote desktop on Windows 11 computer and if you find any doubts then do let us know in the comments section below.

When did you initially receive your computer? Right, it seemed quick and responsive. How about right now? Most likely, it doesn’t feel anything near as fast, and that is mainly because of our usage and some things which we neglect and that makes the PC slow.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to get your computer back to how it was without spending any money. You can maintain a computer or laptop running Windows 11 with free tools provided by Windows itself. After using the free tools, you will realize the change in your computer.

You only need to know where to search because Microsoft has made it easy to improve and maintain the performance of your computer. We outline the features and tools that Windows includes by default to help you keep your computer operating efficiently. So without making any further delay let’s dive into the article to check out the free tools which can make your computer fast.

1. Visit “This PC”

Windows always uses your hard disc regardless of what you do with it. Therefore, maintaining the condition of your storage devices is crucial. Perform a disc cleanup as one of the first steps. Click This PC in the left-hand navigation pane of the File Explorer window after pressing Windows + E to bring it up.

Make sure you’re on the General tab when you right-click the icon for one of your hard drives and choose Properties. Clean up system files should be selected after clicking the Disk Clean-up button. Then, in order to free up space, you may swiftly delete a large number of useless files using the check boxes, and you can delete outdated System Restore points using the More Options tab.

2. Running a hard drive scan

Modern hard discs are extremely durable, although issues do arise from time to time. You may check for disc issues in File Explorer by right-clicking on a drive icon, selecting Properties, and then going to the Tools tab.
Click the Check button, then Scan drive, and then sit back and wait for your drive to be inspected.

The scanning process can take some time; fortunately, when it’s finished, you’ll be informed that there are no issues. However, if problems are found, Windows will advise you on the next steps to be taken.

3. Storage optimization

Drive optimization is crucial despite the fact that fragmentation is less of a problem now that solid-state drives are so common. Click the Optimize button under the Optimize and defragment drive section on the Tools tab of the drive properties.

Windows will subsequently carry out the required actions to ensure peak performance if you click the Optimize button. The Advanced View button will show you more drives that can all be individually optimized using the same technique.

4. Schedule a time to optimize your storage

While you’re looking into drive optimization, look into scheduling options because these can be utilized to automate things in the future. In the Scheduled optimization section of the Optimize Drives dialogue, click the Change settings button and then check the option labelled Run on a schedule (recommended).

You can select how frequently optimization should be conducted using the drop-down box, and then click the Choose button to select the drives that should be included.

5. Looking up Windows Update

Installing updates may seem insignificant or unimportant to some individuals, but this is not the case. Indeed, the importance of keeping Windows 11 completely updated cannot be understated – it is essential!

Windows should be set to look for and download updates on a regular basis, but there’s nothing stopping you from manually checking from time to time.

This is especially critical if you are having computer troubles at any moment. Press Windows + I to launch the Settings programme, then navigate to the Windows Update area to check for and install any updates.

6. Configure the graphical performance of your PC

While the extra effects in Windows 11 seem good, they can slow down your computer, especially if it’s an older system. You may turn off special effects in a few easy steps, beginning with pressing Windows + I to enter Settings.

Navigate to the System section on the left, then click About at the bottom of the right-hand pane. Click the Advanced system settings link, followed by the Settings button in the Performance section of the Advanced tab. Adjust for best performance, then click on OK.

7. Changing the settings on your battery

Windows 11, like its predecessors, allows you to balance the power consumption of your computer with its performance. Power consumption is a crucial issue while running your laptop on battery power, but performance is considerably more important when connected to the mains.

Click the Start button, type Power plan into the search box, and then select the Change power plan option from the search results. Expand the Show additional plans area and then choose High performance. You can tweak the plan by clicking Change plan settings, but the default settings should suffice.

8. Making Use of Task Manager

Although setting up applications to begin automatically when Windows starts can be advantageous in many cases, over time it can drastically slow down your computer. It’s important to look at what starting processes are active and disable those that are unnecessary.

Select Task Manager from the menu that opens by pressing Ctrl, Alt, and Del. Look through the list of apps on the Startup page of Task Manager. If any of the listed items are ones you don’t want Windows to launch, right-click them and choose Disable. Restart your computer once you’ve completed this process for all unwanted startup programmes.

9. Updates on the Microsoft Store

It is just as vital to maintain Windows up to date as it is to keep the other software you have installed up to date. To update software downloaded from the Microsoft Store, simply run the Store app, navigate to the Library area, and select the Update all or Get updates button.

Apps should be uninstalled and updated. When it comes to software you didn’t get from the Store, you’ll have to look into each programme to see how the update process works. Some programmes will handle things automatically, while others would require you to check for updates manually.

10. When in doubt, Restart your computer

When computers are not in use, it is more usual to leave them in sleep mode rather than shutting them down. While this helps to shorten startup times, it can also introduce complications over time. If your machine becomes sluggish, simply pick the Restart option from the Start menu’s power section.

With one simple step, you will flush out RAM, close off useless apps, and much more. So, don’t forget: it’s a good idea to restart Windows 11 now and then to give it a fresh start.

Start using the free tools on your Windows 11 powered computer right now and make it faster and efficient to carry out your work without any delay. Also, don’t forget to share the guide with your near and dear ones as well.

Just like every new version of the Windows operating system the latest windows 11 is welcomed with a mixture of enthusiasm for the new features and apprehension for the changes involved. However, all Windows users agree on one thing: they want the finest and fastest experience available.

So, whether you’re an experienced Windows user getting used to the new look and feel of the operating system or a first-time Windows user, we’ve put together a list of essential tips and tricks to assist you to get more out of Windows.

Some will allow you to personalize Windows 11 and make it your own, while others help speed up how you use the operating system. But they all have one thing in common: they all improve Windows in some fashion.

1. Shift the Start button

You’ll see that the taskbar’s icons and Start button are both in the middle; this may not be to everyone’s taste. Right-click an empty space in the taskbar and choose Taskbar settings if you want the Start button to remain in the left-hand corner as it has always been. Expand the Taskbar Behaviors section by clicking on it, and then click the Taskbar Alignment drop-down box and choose Left.

2. Activate night mode

Windows 11 follows the trend of many other programmes by offering the option to change to a darker tint. Before selecting the Color section, right-click an empty space on the desktop and choose Personalize if you like deeper hues. Choose Dark from the drop-down menu labelled “Choose your mode.”

3. Utilizing Snap layouts

It can be challenging to arrange the windows on the screen for simple navigation if you have a number of active Explorer windows and running applications. The Snap feature in Windows 11 might be the answer you’re looking for. To easily arrange open windows, place your cursor on the Maximize/Resize button and select a layout. There are many options available, each suitable for various tasks and screen sizes.

4. Cover up unsuitable Taskbar buttons

You will see the Task view and Widgets buttons next to the Start button. By right-clicking an empty space in the taskbar and choosing Taskbar settings, you can hide these if you don’t want them. After that, you can turn Task view and Widgets on and off. The Search and Chat buttons let you do the same thing.

5. Focus aid eliminates distractions

When you need to minimize distractions and get to work, Focus Assist can be used to stop notifications from showing. Open Settings, then select the System tab, then Focus aid. If you choose Alarms alone, only alarm alerts will annoy you. You can select additional alerts that should be allowed using the Priority only option, and you can select periods when Focus assistant should be enabled automatically.

6. Edge is excluded from Alt + Tab

The Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut is probably how you typically switch between open windows and applications. Edge browser tabs can now be added to the Alt + Tab list in Windows 11 for even easier navigation. Open Settings, navigate to System > Multi-tasking and then select Open windows only from the drop-down menu in the Alt + Tab area to ignore Edge tabs.

7. Utilizing widgets

The taskbar’s Widgets button, the blue and white button next to the Start button, displays mini-apps called widgets in a little pop-up window when you click it. By selecting the button next to your profile photo in the upper right, you can change the widgets that are displayed. To display a widget, click the Plus button next to its preview. Unwanted widgets can be deleted by clicking the x in their top right-hand corner in the main widget panel.

8. Launch menu shortcuts

You can quickly access a wide range of Windows 11 components by using the handy menu that appears when you right-click the Start button or when you press Windows + X. This contains links to the Control Panel’s sections as well as Explorer and Settings.

9. Improve your voice

Windows 11 can improve the audio quality of your listening experience when you are using speakers or headphones. Right-click the taskbar’s volume icon and choose Sound options. Toggle the Enhance audio toggle to the On position by selecting it from the alternatives by clicking the arrow to the right of the audio device you are now using.

10. Pin commonly used apps

For quick access, the programmes you use the most can be pinned to the taskbar or the top of the Start menu. Locate the shortcut for an application you frequently use by clicking the Start button, then right-click it. You can choose the Pin to Start or Pin to Taskbar option from the menu that opens, depending on your preference.

11. Make the Start menu your own

You may display or hide a lot of items in the Start menu. Use the toggles to activate or disable recently added apps, most-used apps, and recent items by opening Settings, going to Personalization > Start, and selecting those options. By selecting Folders, you may use the proper toggles to add shortcuts to a number of choices, like Settings, Explorer, or certain folders.

12. Expand right-click menu

There might be some familiar choices missing from the context menu in Windows 11 (the one that displays when you right-click on files and folders in Explorer). By selecting Show more options at the bottom of the context menu or by choosing a file or folder and hitting Shift + F10, you can open the old-style menu.

13. Remove all obstacles

There is an alternative to using the Windows + D keyboard shortcut to minimize all open windows. Move the Title bar window shake toggle to On under Settings, System > Multi-tasking, and open. All open windows will now be minimized except for the one you have selected when you click the title bar of an open window, hold down the left mouse button, and shake your mouse side to side.

14. Simple Settings shortcut

In Windows 11, there are many important keyboard shortcuts to master, but Windows + I is one of the best for anyone who frequently modifies settings. The Settings app will launch when you press these keys together.

15. Personalized screenshots

By pressing Print Screen and then transferring the contents of the clipboard into your preferred image editor, you can snap a screenshot of what is in front of you. However, if you press Windows + Shift + S, the Snipping Tool programme will appear and allow you to capture a screenshot of a specific area of your desktop or any open windows.

16. Quick- launch pinned Apps

The easiest approach to open your most often used apps is already available if you have shortcuts pinned to the taskbar. However, you may also use Windows + 1 to open the app whose icon is in the first place, Windows + 2 to open the second, and so forth.

Pressing Windows + 3 + 4 will open the apps whose shortcuts are third and fourth in the taskbar, for example. You may also press several numbers at once to start two or more apps at once.

17. Voice typing will enable faster typing

Try speaking to your computer instead of using the keyboard if you want to input text a little more quickly. You can utilise voice typing, which is activated by pressing Windows + H, to narrate text rather than manually type it.

18. Monitor battery life

You’ll probably want to extend the life of your battery if you’re using a laptop. By opening Settings and going to System > Power & battery, when you’re not near a power source, you can see which apps are using the most battery.

You may view a list of battery-hungry apps by selecting View detailed info next to the helpful battery usage graph. Through the three-dot menu next to each app’s entry in the list, you can terminate any that are not needed or control their background activity.

19. Virtual desktops

Virtual desktops might be useful in situations when you might otherwise run out of space on your desktop or become lost in a sea of windows. To create a new virtual workspace, click the Task View button next to the Start button, then select New desktop. This one and any others you make can be used just like a regular desktop. By using the left or right arrow key while pressing Windows + Ctrl, you can switch between them.

20. Adapt Quick Settings

You’ll find Quick Settings, which provides quick access to important options and settings, when you click the Network/Volume/Power button in the taskbar. By clicking the pencil icon, selecting the ‘unpin’ option next to an undesired item, or by hitting Add to choose more, you can delete items you don’t need or add new ones that are missing from your list.

Try the above-mentioned tips and tricks to carry out your work with comfort and also the same will help you to increase your productivity.

Microsoft is back with Windows 11 operating system and that is having a roaring enthusiasm to deliver a modernized version of the Windows user experience that is easy to use, elegantly designed, and well-connected in an effort to increase your productivity in your professional or creative processes.

In a world where more and more people are returning to using PCs in their daily lives, Microsoft believed it was crucial to release a new operating system (OS) designed from the ground up for working from home, while also catering to a new generation of people who have and are still using smartphones and tablets as their primary “computer.”

There are already a few things that you might not be aware of that could improve your workflow with Windows 11 approaching its first significant update in the shape of “Sun Valley 2.”
Some might be tucked away in the System Settings app or out of the way in plain sight. Nevertheless, all of these technologies work to make it simpler to access an app or to produce a document.

In order to help you feel like a true Windows wizard, we’ve highlighted seven secret features of Windows 11 that you might not be aware of. Believe me, the 7 features will increase your productivity and make your life easy as well. So let’s get into the article to check out the secret features of the windows 11 operating system.

1. Typing by Voice

Dictation on Windows has greatly improved in recent years, with Windows 11 making it easier and more accessible with commands and punctuation capabilities. Regardless of which screen you are on Windows 11, just click WIN + H simultaneously on your keyboard to shout out a message and, if desired, a command to open an app. This particular feature will also help those who have a locomotor disability as well. The users can simply talk with the computer and the machine will carry out the work.

2. Picking Emoji & GIF

Emojis make the conversation more creative and interesting and if you wish to swiftly insert an emoji or a GIF into a document or chat, simply press the WIN +. keys together, and you will get a pop-up window. The window will allow you to search for the appropriate picture or emoji. From this window, you can effortlessly switch between images and GIFs (although we did find the former to be relatively limited in terms of the number of emojis available). It is worth mentioning that you can do the same by right-clicking on the screen and the same will bring the pop-up menu from where you can select the same option.

3. Hiding Start Menu

If you’ve upgraded from a previous version of the Windows operating system and are struggling to understand the new start menu, there’s a hidden menu that can bring up the majority of what you need.

When you right-click on the Start menu icon, you’ll be greeted with a list of ready-to-use apps. So you can definitely check out this particular feature.

4. Hiding Context Menu

The right-click menu in Windows 11 was one of many updates that Microsoft made to the operating system, but it may still be accessed if you require a different action.

Simply select ‘More Options’ or press Shift + F10 buttons together on your keyboard to bring up the original context menu.

5. Layouts in a Snap

This is one of my personal favourite features in the Windows 11 operating system and the company allows you to make the layout according to your wish with this particular feature. Microsoft has activated some of these layouts, but you still need to do more to make sure they can all maximize your monitor.

Be sure to turn on all of the layouts by going to the Start Menu > Settings > System > Multitasking. The next time, you’ll be able to stack apps next to one another. Alternatively, you can hold a window and shake it to close all other windows and concentrate only on the one you’re currently using. This feature will increase your productivity and there is no doubt in that.

6. Volume controls only for apps

A valuable but difficult to locate feature in Windows 11 is the ability to lower the volume in one app, such as YouTube or any other application, while keeping it higher in another, such as Google Chrome.

You may adjust the volume for each active app and the same can be done by going to Settings > System > Sound > Volume Mixer.

7. Clipboard

The latest Windows 11 operating system has enhanced the speed with which you may copy and paste text by pressing CTRL + C and CTRL + V. A pop-up window with previously copied text that you can paste in will display when you press WIN + V.

If you have a computer that can easily support it, using Windows 11 has been a terrific experience. The experience won’t be as good if you don’t have a computer that complies with the system requirements.

So guys use the 7 secret Features of the Windows 11 operating system and increase your productivity. By the way, don’t forget to share the article with your near and dear ones as well.