The most innovative operating system in Microsoft, allows you a complete visual and functional metamorphosis. It not only maintains the functionalities appreciated by users, but also introduces a Fluent Design, minimalist and elegant. But what is a system without a personal touch? Fortunately, Windows 11 takes personalization to new levels.
How to start the appearance change in Windows 11
To change the Windows 11 theme, you must first access the personalization settings. Click on the icon Configuration in the menu of Home or press Windows + I on your keyboard.
First steps to transform your interface in Windows 11
In the window of Configuration, Select "Personalization" and then «Topics». Here you can see and select the themes available on your system.
Download new themes from the Microsoft Store
If the pre-installed themes do not satisfy you, you can download new themes from the Microsoft Store. Click “Get more themes in the Microsoft Store” in the themes section to explore a variety of options.
Bring your desktop to life with independent creations with third-party themes
Apart from official themes, you can also install third-party themes from trusted websites. Make sure you download from safe sources to avoid security risks.
Recommended Websites
Some reliable sites to download third party themes are:
Alternative ways to change the theme in Windows 11
Windows 11 offers several ways to change themes. Here we present some of the most effective:
Desktop context menu
To change the theme from the desktop context menu:
- Right-click on the desktop and select Personalization..
- In the settings window, click Themes and select the desired theme.
Use the settings app
You can also change the theme directly from the Settings app:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Choose Personalization. and then Themes.
- Select the theme you prefer from the available list.
Old Control Panel customization utility
To access the old customization utility:
- Press Win + R, writes shell:::{ED834ED6-4B5A-4bfe-8F11-A626DCB6A921}-Microsoft.Personalization and press Enter.
- In the personalization window, select the desired theme.
run command box
To open theme settings directly:
- Press Win + R and writes ms-settings: themes, then press Enter.
- Select the desired theme in the Settings app.
Themes directly from File Explorer
Access installed themes through File Explorer:
- Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
- Navigate to %LocalAppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Themes and double click the theme file to apply it.
Refresh your desktop with CMD commands
Change the theme using the command prompt:
- Press Win + X and select Terminal (administrator).
- Write C:\Windows\resources\Themes\aero.theme and press Enter.
Create a shortcut
To quickly apply a theme using a shortcut:
- Press Win + E and navigate to C:\Windows\resources\Themes\.
- Right click on the topic and select Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).
- Double-click the shortcut on the desktop to apply the theme.
PowerShell opens the doors to advanced customization
To change the theme with PowerShell:
- Press Win + R, writes PowerShell and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
- Write start-process -filepath «C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\aero.theme» and press Enter.
Create a batch file
To change the theme using a batch file:
- Opens Notepad and paste the following script:
C:\Windows\resources\Themes\aero.theme taskkill /F /IM systemsettings.exe
- Save the file as changetheme.bat on the desk.
- Right click on the file and select Run as administrator.
Other ways to customize Windows 11
Windows 11 allows for more advanced customization by changing specific theme details. You can adjust the colors, sounds and even the appearance of the icons. These additional options can be found in the Personalization. configuration.
Personalize your Windows 11 experience by exploring and applying new themes that reflect your personal style. Transform your interface with options from the Microsoft Store or through secure third-party sources. Dare to give a unique touch to your digital environment.
I am Sebastián Vidal, a computer engineer passionate about technology and DIY. Furthermore, I am the creator of tecnobits.com, where I share tutorials to make technology more accessible and understandable for everyone.