Ultimate Guide to Customizing Windows 11 Like a Pro!

Ultimate Guide to Customizing Windows 11 Like a Pro!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Clean Desktop Setup
3. Customizing the Taskbar
4. Changing the Windows Theme
5. Minimizing the Taskbar Footprint
6. Implementing a Side Panel
7. Hiding Desktop Icons
8. Customizing the Side Panel
9. Adding Programs to the Side Panel
10. Adding Live Wallpaper
11. Using Wallpaper Engine
12. Customizing the Live Wallpaper
13. Complementing the Setup on Secondary Screens
14. Conclusion

Introduction

Hey guys, welcome back to the ParkVerse! This week, I want to share something a little different with You all. I'll be showing you how to Create a custom clean Windows 11 desktop setup. If you've been wanting to spice up your desktop, this tutorial is for you. So, let's dive in and create a unique and personalized desktop that you'll love.

Clean Desktop Setup

By default, a Windows 11 desktop can look cluttered and boring. We want to achieve a clean and organized look. First, let's focus on the taskbar. We only want to have essential apps pinned to the taskbar. Anything that you don't need can be unpinned by right-clicking on the app and selecting "Unpin." For apps you want to keep, simply search for them, right-click, and hit "Pin."

Customizing the Taskbar

Next, let's get rid of the built-in Windows 11 widgets and chat app icon. Right-click anywhere on the taskbar and go to "Settings." In the settings, toggle off the options for widgets and the chat app. If you have too many icons overflowing in the bottom right corner, you can toggle them off using the "Taskbar Corner Overflow" option. You can also change the taskbar alignment from left to center in the "Top Spot Behavior" section.

Changing the Windows Theme

To switch up the default bright colors of Windows 11, we can search for "Themes" in the same window where we found the settings. Apply any preset color palettes that you like. You can even tweak them within the theme settings. For this setup, I have used a base setup of purple with a red accent color. Feel free to choose colors that suit your taste.

Minimizing the Taskbar Footprint

To further declutter the desktop, let's minimize the taskbar footprint. Head over to the Microsoft Store and download the free app called "Rounded TV." This app will give us a dock-like look for the taskbar. Adjust the margin and corner radius settings to your preference. For this setup, I recommend using a margin of 3 and a corner radius of 10. Make sure to turn on the dynamic mode option in the advanced settings. Your taskbar should now have a clean and sleek appearance.

Implementing a Side Panel

Now, it's time to declutter the desktop and add a cool side panel. We'll be using the free software called "Nexus" by Winstep. Install it from their Website, which can be found in the video description. After installation, you will see a new panel at the top of your screen. To clean it up, right-click on the default icons and select "Remove." As a neat trick, we can hide the desktop icons. Right-click anywhere on the desktop, go to "View" and untick the "Show Desktop Icons" option.

Customizing the Side Panel

To customize the side panel, either right-click on the new panel or tap on the Nexus icon. Go to the preferences and explore the customization options. Even with the free version, there are plenty of options to personalize your side panel. For this setup, I'll be repositioning the panel to the left-HAND side of the screen and adjusting its size. Feel free to drag in shortcuts to your most used apps for quick access.

Adding Programs to the Side Panel

To add your own programs to the side panel, simply drag in the shortcuts directly onto the panel itself. Customize it with the apps you use frequently. This will make it easy to access your favorite programs without cluttering your desktop.

Adding Live Wallpaper

Now, let's add an awesome live wallpaper to bring your desktop to life. I recommend using the software called "Wallpaper Engine," available on Steam. Although it's a paid application, it offers great value for money. Once installed, you will have access to a library of live wallpapers. You can also browse thousands of user-created wallpapers for free. Find a live wallpaper you like, click on the subscribe button, and it will be added to your library.

Using Wallpaper Engine

The live wallpaper I used in this setup is called "The Last One," which features a perspective twist as your mouse moves. I will provide a link to this parallax live wallpaper in the video description. If you have a Second monitor, I recommend complementing the setup with the "Midnight Sky" wallpaper.

Customizing the Live Wallpaper

Within Wallpaper Engine, you can further customize your live wallpaper. Explore the settings and options to achieve the desired look for your desktop. Have fun experimenting with different wallpapers and effects until you find the perfect combination.

Complementing the Setup on Secondary Screens

If you have a second monitor, make sure to complement the setup on your secondary screen as well. Use a wallpaper, such as "Midnight Sky," to create a Cohesive and visually appealing dual-monitor setup.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully created a custom clean Windows 11 desktop setup. Enjoy your new personalized desktop and feel free to explore more customization options to make it truly your own. Thank you for watching, and make sure to like and subscribe for more tutorials like this. Don't forget to check out my other Android customization videos. See you next time on the ParkVerse!