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

🛠️ 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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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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• ExplorerPatcher: Bring back Windows 7-style taskbar and File Explorer.
• IconPackager: Apply retro icons globally.
• DOSBox: Run Windows 3.1 in a virtual DOS environment.

✅ 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!