Transform Ubuntu into a Windows 11 Clone: Customization Guide

If you’ve recently made the leap from Windows to Ubuntu, you might be experiencing a nifty case of culture shock. Fear not, fellow tech traveler! This guide is designed to ease that transition by showing you how to make your Ubuntu desktop feel a lot more like Windows 11. Let’s dive right into the world of customization and discover how to give Ubuntu a Windows-like makeover!

Why Customize Your Ubuntu Experience?​

Ubuntu possesses a unique interface that can initially seem starkly different from what Windows users are accustomed to. By customizing the Ubuntu desktop environment (DE) with tools, themes, and tweaks, you can create an interface that’s not only familiar but also visually appealing. The deep customization potential of Ubuntu—thanks to its GNU/Linux foundation—allows even the novice user to tailor specific aspects of their computing experience.

Installing Necessary Tools and Extensions​

To set the stage for this transformation, you’ll first need to install a few crucial tools and extensions within Ubuntu’s GNOME DE. These tools enable deeper customization and functionality, just like a Swiss Army knife, ready to cut through the confusion of a new OS.

1. Open the Terminal: Start by launching your terminal. You can do this quickly using the shortcut: Ctrl + Alt + T.
2. Update Your Packages: Ensure your system is up to date by running the following command:
   

   bash sudo apt update

3. Install Required Software: With the terminal open and the packages updated, enter the command below to install Git, GNOME Extensions, and GNOME Tweaks:
   

   bash sudo apt install git gnome-shell-extensions gnome-tweaks

Installing Necessary Extensions​

Now that we have the basic tools installed, it’s time to dive into extensions that enhance GNOME functionality. These will help mimic that sweet Windows 11 taskbar experience.

1. GNOME Shell Integration: This browser extension is essential for installing GNOME extensions. Install it in Firefox or Chrome, and then head to the official GNOME extensions website: extensions.gnome.org.
2. Key Extensions to Install:
   • User Themes: This extension allows easy switching between themes.
   • Dash to Panel: This transforms the dash into a Windows-style taskbar, i.e., sleek and functional.
   • Blur My Shell: Adds a surreal translucency effect to your taskbar.
   • ArcMenu: A close mimic of the Windows Start menu.
   • Date Menu Formatter: Changes the date format to resemble Windows 11’s stacked look.
   • Media Controls: Gives you a quick-access icon for media playback.
   • Tray Icons: Reloaded: Shows background apps in your panel.

Installing a Windows Theme, Icon Pack, and Fonts​

Next, let’s take a step beyond functionality and delve into aesthetics. Nothing screams “Windows” louder than a familiar theme, icon pack, and font.

1. Windows 11 Icon Pack: Visit GitHub to find your icon pack. Clone it and install it using:
   

   bash git clone https://github.com/yeyushengfan258/Win11-icon-theme.git cd Win11-icon-theme ./install.sh

2. Fluent GTK Theme: This theme closely resembles Windows aesthetics. Fetch it from GitHub and install it in the same way.
3. Segoe UI Font: Install the Windows-like font to wrap everything up. Get it from GitHub and proceed with the commands:
   

   bash git clone https://github.com/mrbvrz/segoe-ui-linux.git cd segoe-ui-linux ./install.sh

Fine-Tuning the Look and Feel​

With your extensions, themes, and font now in place, let’s give Ubuntu that final polish to mimic Windows 11 perfectly.

1. Open GNOME Tweaks: This handy app will allow you to manage your installed themes and fonts.
   • Go to the Font tab and set “Change Interface Text” to Segoe UI Light.
   • In the Appearance tab, set the Cursor to DMZ-White, Icons to Win11-dark, and Shell to Fluent-Light.
2. Tweak Extension Settings: Go to each installed extension and configure them:
   • Dash to Panel: Hide unnecessary buttons, center the taskbar, and tweak visual styles for that Windows feel.
   • ArcMenu: Adjust the layout and visual appearance to reflect Windows style.
   • Blur My Shell: Manage blur settings to create a cohesive look.

And There You Have It!​

Congratulations! If you've followed through, your Ubuntu PC should now resemble a sleek Windows 11 setup. While native applications still maintain their Ubuntu look, the overall experience should be far more familiar—and visually appealing. But remember, this customization journey not only highlights the flexibility of Ubuntu but also empowers you to mold your desktop to fit your preferences.
Now, go forth and enjoy your personalized Ubuntu experience! Feel free to share your thoughts and any additional tips in the comments below. Happy customizing!
Source: How-To Geek How to Make Ubuntu Look Like Windows 11