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Retro Theming Windows 11: A Complete Guide to Classic UI Customization

·422 words·2 mins

🛠️ Windows 11 Retro Setup Guide (Lean, Private & Nostalgic)
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Transform Windows 11 into a slim, private OS with the classic aesthetic of Windows XP, 98, or even 3.1.


🔧 Step 1: Create Custom Installer with Rufus
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  1. Download Rufus.
  2. Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft.
  3. Insert a USB drive (at least 8GB).
  4. Use Rufus to:
    • Select the ISO and USB drive.
    • Enable advanced options:
      • ✅ Bypass TPM, Secure Boot, and Microsoft Account requirements
      • ✅ Disable telemetry prompts during setup

🚿 Step 2: Debloat with Chris Titus Tech’s Script
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  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
  2. Paste and run:
    irm "https://christitus.com/win" | iex
    
  3. Use the script to:
    • Debloat unwanted apps
    • Improve performance
    • Disable telemetry, OneDrive, Widgets, and background services

🔒 Step 3: Enhance Privacy with O&O ShutUp10++
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  1. Download ShutUp10++.
  2. Run the app (no install needed).
  3. Click Actions > Apply only recommended settings.
  4. Optionally tweak:
    • ❌ Location tracking
    • ❌ App telemetry
    • ❌ Automatic updates
    • ❌ Driver suggestions

🎨 Step 4: Apply a Retro Visual Style
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📦 Required Tools
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ToolPurposeLink
Open-ShellStart Menu (XP or classic style)GitHub
RetroBarTaskbar with 98/3.1 stylesGitHub
WindowBlinds¹Full theming engineStardock
Winaero TweakerFonts & UI tweaksWinaero

¹ Paid, free trial available.


💚 Windows XP Setup
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  • Use Open-Shell with Luna skin.
  • Apply Luna theme in WindowBlinds or with a .msstyles loader.
  • Set system font to Tahoma.
  • Set wallpaper to Bliss.
  • Use XP-style sound scheme and icons.

💙 Windows 98 Setup
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  • Enable RetroBar’s Windows 98 theme.
  • Font: Tahoma
  • Icons: My Computer, Network Neighborhood (98 style)
  • Wallpaper: clouds.bmp or solid teal
  • Sounds: Classic startup/shutdown WAVs

🤍 Windows 3.1 Setup
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  • RetroBar set to minimalist.
  • WindowBlinds with “Windows 3.1 Classic” skin
  • Font: System or Fixedsys
  • Wallpaper: Solid color (e.g. grey, blue)
  • Sounds: Extract Win 3.1 WAVs and apply via sound control panel
  • Optional: Create folders like “Main”, “Games”, and “Accessories” with grouped shortcuts to mimic Program Manager

🎛️ Optional Enhancements
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✅ Final Touches
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  • Use a local account during installation (skip Microsoft sign-in).
  • Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects:
    • Disable transparency and animations
  • Disable background/startup apps in:
    • Settings > Apps > Startup
  • Keep Microsoft Defender AV updated (supported through 2028).
  • Set up restore points before major theme changes.
  • Backup regularly with File History or a tool like Macrium Reflect.

💾 You now have a fast, secure, and delightfully nostalgic version of Windows 11. Cue the boot chime!

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