Transform Windows 11 to Windows XP: A Nostalgic Guide

Ah, Windows XP! For many of us, it wasn’t just an operating system; it was an emotion. The rolling green hills of the Bliss wallpaper, the soothing blue taskbar, and that oh-so-simple start menu conjure up memories of a simpler tech era. Fast forward to today, Windows 11 is here, flaunting a sleek modern design that screams "future." While it boasts killer features, some of us just can't let go of the nostalgia of XP. Guess what? True to the magic of customization, you can now make Windows 11 look like Windows XP with a bit of work and a sprinkle of third-party tools. So, why not take your new-school hardware on a delicious old-school spin?
More than just being cool, transitioning Windows 11 into XP style is also a fun way to remind folks of how far Windows as an ecosystem has evolved. Let’s get started with this transformation process step by step.

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Step 1: The Iconic Bliss Wallpaper—The Gateway to Nostalgia​

First things first, you cannot replicate XP vibes without starting with its most iconic element: the Bliss wallpaper. Remember that breezy, green paradise under a blue-skied charm? You’ll need to set this backdrop for maximum impact.
Here’s how to do it:

• Download the Bliss Wallpaper: You can easily find the Bliss wallpaper by Googling it or visiting a wallpaper site like WallpaperHub.
• Set It as Your Desktop Background: Once downloaded (ensure it fits your screen resolution for a crisp look), right-click the image file and select "Set as Desktop Background."

Done! Now, when you minimize your windows, you’ll be greeted by the Eden of 2001.

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Step 2: Revamp the Taskbar with RetroBar ​

The XP magic doesn’t end with a background image. The taskbar is crucial. Windows 11's centered icons—and its design as a whole—need to step aside as you roll back the years.
To bring the XP flair to your taskbar:

• Adjust Taskbar Alignment: Open Settings using Win + I, navigate to Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Behaviors, and adjust its alignment to Left. This mirrors the left-aligned feel of XP’s original taskbar.
• Download RetroBar: Enter, a cute little app called RetroBar, which neatly reskins your taskbar. Download the latest version (make sure it matches your system architecture, like 64-bit).
• Run it: Extract the zip file, run the executable, and follow on-screen prompts. When Windows SmartScreen gives you ominous warnings (Microsoft doesn’t trust unverified apps automatically), simply click More Info > Run Anyway.
• Set the XP Visual Style: From RetroBar's Properties, change the taskbar’s theme to "Windows XP Blue" for that authentic throwback design. Tweaks like allowing font smoothing or enabling thumbnail previews can enhance the effect.
  For bonus comfort: Ensure RetroBar automatically starts at system logon, so you don’t have to manually fire it up every time.

Now your taskbar doesn’t just function—it travels through time.

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Step 3: Start Menu Throwback with Open-Shell ​

All right, your taskbar’s gotten its XP makeover, but what about the start menu? Clicking it still exposes the ultra-modern vibes of Windows 11. Let’s fix this little inconvenience.
You’ll need Open-Shell, an open-source utility that breathes life into classic layouts:

• Download Open-Shell: Search for its latest version (as of writing, 4.4.191 is available) and install the .exe file.
• Customization Game On: After installation, click the Start Menu Button and explore options in Open-Shell Settings.
• Under the "Start Menu Style" tab, choose "Classic with Two Columns"—this closely mirrors the XP menu.
• Then, switch to the Skin tab and select Windows XP Luna Skin, fondly named after XP’s blue-heavy interface.
• Adjust the Details: Fine-tune the positioning using the Menu Look tab. Adjust vertical spacing until it fits snugly with the taskbar, and toggle settings for Show Usernames/Pictures as desired.

Congratulations, your Start menu has just emerged straight outta 2001.

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Step 4: Windows Buttons, Icons, and More with WindowBlinds ​

Next up: replicating XP-style buttons, controls, and the famous Luna themes. For this, you’ll need a robust utility called WindowBlinds 11. Here's the catch—it’s a paid app ($29.99), but a 30-day free trial should be more than enough to scratch that nostalgic itch.

• Install WindowBlinds: Grab the installer from the official website and pick a Luna-style theme post-installation.
• Apply It: From the app’s menu, select "Windows XP Luna" Style, hit "Apply," and voilà—your buttons and menus instantly adopt the XP charm.

Be warned: WindowsBlinds mainly applies to native apps like File Explorer. Expect third-party programs (e.g., Chrome) to stick with their independent design language.

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Step 5: Optional Icon Makeover ​

While you've already nailed the biggest elements, die-hard XP fans might want icons that also follow suit. You can manually source XP-style icon packs online (just ensure icons are safely sourced and formatted correctly).

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Summing It All Up: Nostalgic Bliss Meets Modern Power​

And just like that—your sleek Windows 11 has been morphed into a sentimental XP wonderland, capturing the best of both worlds. The best part? If the nostalgia factory runs out of steam, simply uninstall RetroBar, Open-Shell, and WindowBlinds, and you’re back to Windows 11’s futuristic glory.
Why Do This in 2024?
Aside from sheer fun and indulgence in tech memories, this guide reminds us of Microsoft’s journey—both its triumphs and the adaptability its fans embrace. Windows 11 may be the most refined OS to date, but the XP heritage still lives on in our collective hearts. As a bonus, this could make for a hilarious desktop tour video if you want to stun coworkers and friends alike. ("Why are you still on XP on this powerhouse gaming laptop?!")
So, fellow retro enthusiasts, get those vibes going. Question for the forum: What’s your personal favorite operating system of all time? Let the nostalgia wars begin!

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Source: How-To Geek How to Make Windows 11 Look Like XP