If you are a user of Windows 11 and you miss some of the classic functionalities of Windows 10, you've probably heard of Explorer Patcher. This community-developed project provides a effective solution to recover traditional design and usability elements, while allowing customize la interface of the system to your liking.
Explorer Patcher It is a free and open source tool that modifies some features of the user interface of Windows 11. It offers you options such as returning to the start menu Windows 10, customize the taskbar and even deactivate the new contextual options of the operating system. If you feel that the visual “improvements” of Windows 11 are not what you expected, this application may be just what you need.
What is ExplorerPatcher and why you should try it?
Designed by Valinet and available in its official repository GitHub, Explorer Patcher seeks to improve the working environment in Windows by allowing users to recover or modify visual elements and functionalities that have been lost in the transition to Windows 11. One of the biggest criticisms of the operating system has been its taskbar, which received changes that do not satisfy everyone. Explorer Patcher allows you to return it almost to its state in Windows 10.
Among other advantages, Explorer Patcher It stands out for allowing classic styles in the Start Menu, disable the modern context menu, and enable older version features like small icons or taskbar labels. While Microsoft has added a few options over time, this tool fills the gaps for those looking for a customizable and more functional layout.
- ExplorerPatcher allows you to recover classic Windows 10 elements such as the Start menu and the taskbar.
- Provides advanced customization options for file explorer, system tray and more.
- Easy installation from the official repository on GitHub, with constant updates from the developers.
ExplorerPatcher Main Features
- Customizable Taskbar: You can completely change its style, move it anywhere on the screen, and add features like small icons.
- Start Menu: Modify the menu to be the same as in Windows 10, with options to show all programs or align it to the left.
- File Browser: Bring back the classic context menu and disable modern navigation bars.
- Window changer: Customize the app switcher Alt + Tab with Windows 10, 11 or even older versions like Windows NT configurations.
- Time and system tray: Adds options to enable or disable modules such as weather or notification icons in the bar.
How to install ExplorerPatcher
The installation of this tool is very simple. You just need to download the file from the official repository of GitHub, making sure to choose the appropriate version for your processor (x64 o ARM64). Once downloaded, run the file and follow the installation instructions. You may be prompted with a security warning. SmartScreen, but you can continue selecting the option “Run anyway”.
After completing the installation, the system may restart the browser to apply the changes. If it does not happen automatically, look for the option “Properties (ExplorerPatcher)” in the Start menu to open the settings panel and adjust settings to your preferences.
Precautions before using ExplorerPatcher
Although Explorer Patcher is stable and secure, it is advisable to take certain precautions before installing it. Since it makes deep modifications to the system, it is advisable to create a restore point in Windows before proceeding. This will allow you to revert any changes in case of problems.
Also, keep in mind that future Windows 11 updates could cause incompatibilities temporary with the tool. The developers of Explorer Patcher They are constantly working to update the program, but some features may no longer be available until compatible versions are released.
Configuration and customization
Once installed, Explorer Patcher offers a comprehensive settings menu divided into sections to customize every aspect of your system. From the taskbar to the Start menu, you can explore options like:
- Taskbar style: Switch between Windows 10 and 11 styles.
- Disable modern context menus: Return to the classic Windows 10 design.
- Combine icons: Decide whether you want to separate or group active windows on the taskbar.
- Start Menu: Set up frequently used apps or remove recommended sections.
These settings are easy to manipulate and are applied immediately after pressing the button. “Restart File Explorer”, located at the bottom left of the panel.
For users of Windows 11 that do not fully adapt to the visual and functional changes of the system, Explorer Patcher allows you to recover the family style of Windows 10 without giving up the advantages of the new operating system. Its flexible and customizable approach makes it an essential tool for those who want to take control of their Windows experience.
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