Windows 11 brings a sleek, modern interface, but for those who miss the classic charm of Windows 95, retro customization is the perfect solution. With a few tweaks, you can blend the best of both worlds—modern functionality with nostalgic aesthetics. Here’s how to give your Windows 11 PC a retro Windows 95 makeover.

Why Go Retro? The Appeal of Windows 95

Windows 95 was a revolutionary OS that introduced the Start menu, taskbar, and a more user-friendly GUI. For many, its pixelated icons, chunky buttons, and beige-themed windows evoke a sense of nostalgia. Customizing Windows 11 to resemble Windows 95 isn’t just about looks—it’s a fun way to relive computing history while keeping the benefits of modern hardware and software.

Step 1: Install a Windows 95 Theme

Use Open-Shell (Classic Shell)

One of the easiest ways to bring back the Windows 95 feel is by using Open-Shell, a fork of the original Classic Shell project. Here’s how:

  1. Download Open-Shell from GitHub.
  2. Install and open the app.
  3. Select Windows 9x/Classic style in the settings.
  4. Customize the Start menu to mimic Windows 95’s layout.

Apply a Windows 95 Visual Style

For a complete transformation, you’ll need a third-party theme:

  • RetroBar (for a Windows 95-style taskbar)
  • WindowBlinds (for deeper UI skinning)
  • Classic Theme Restorer (registry tweaks for classic window borders)

Step 2: Replace Icons and Sounds

Icon Packs

Download a Windows 95 icon pack (available on DeviantArt or GitHub) and apply it using:

  • 7TSP GUI (for system-wide icon replacement)
  • CustomizerGod (for advanced icon swaps)

Classic Sounds

Windows 95 had distinctive startup chimes and system sounds. You can replace Windows 11’s sounds by:

  1. Downloading a Windows 95 sound pack.
  2. Going to Settings > System > Sound > Sound Control Panel.
  3. Manually assigning each sound event.

Step 3: Adjust Window Borders and Colors

Registry Tweaks

For the classic gray window borders:

  1. Open Registry Editor (Win + R, type regedit).
  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics
  3. Modify BorderWidth to -15 for a chunky border.

Classic Color Scheme

  • Open Settings > Personalization > Colors.
  • Disable transparency effects.
  • Set accent color to classic gray (#C0C0C0).

Step 4: Use Retro Applications

For the full experience, consider running:

  • Internet Explorer 5 (via compatibility mode)
  • MS Paint 95 (old versions available online)
  • WinAmp 2 (for that retro media player vibe)

Step 5: Bonus Touches

  • Desktop Wallpaper: Use the original Windows 95 clouds wallpaper.
  • Mouse Cursors: Swap to the classic white pointer.
  • Fonts: Install the MS Sans Serif font for menus.

Risks and Considerations

  • Third-party themes may require disabling Secure Boot.
  • Registry edits can cause instability if done incorrectly.
  • Back up your system before making major changes.

Conclusion

Transforming Windows 11 into a Windows 95 throwback is a delightful project for retro enthusiasts. While you won’t get a perfect replica, these tweaks bring back the essence of an iconic OS. Whether for nostalgia or just fun, a Windows 95-themed Windows 11 is a unique way to stand out.

Would you try this retro makeover? Let us know in the comments!