How to Install Linux and Set Up Partitions

How to Install Linux and Set Up Partitions Installing Linux for the first time may seem intimidating, but it is simpler than you think.  Step 1 : Choose a Linux Distribution Popular beginner-friendly choices :  Ubuntu – Most recommended for first-time users Linux Mint – Familiar Windows-like interface Fedora – Modern and developer-focused Download the ISO file from the official website of your chosen distribution. Step 2 : Create a Bootable USB Drive You’ll need : A USB flash drive (at least 4GB) ISO image of the Linux distro Tool like Rufus (Windows) , balenaEtcher (cross-platform) , or UNetbootin Steps (using Rufus) : Insert USB drive. Select the Linux ISO file. Use “GPT” for UEFI systems, “MBR” for legacy BIOS. Start writing. Step 3 : Pre...

How to Customize the Windows User Interface

How to Customize the Windows User Interface (UI) for a Personalized Experience


Customizing the Windows user interface (UI) helps you work more efficiently and makes your PC feel truly yours. 

From changing themes to arranging your taskbar, Windows 11 offer plenty of built-in options to personalize your desktop experience.


1. Change the Desktop Background

  • Right-click on the desktop > Select Personalize

  • Click Background

  • Choose between :

    • Picture

    • Solid color

    • Slideshow

  • You can browse for your own images or use Windows’ default wallpapers

Tip: Use high-resolution wallpapers for a clean, professional look.


2. Apply Themes

  • Go to Settings > Personalization > Themes

  • Choose from built-in themes or download from the Microsoft Store

  • Themes change your background, sounds, cursor, and colors

You can also save your own custom theme by clicking Save Theme.



3. Customize the Start Menu

  • Go to Settings > Personalization > Start

  • Choose to show :

    • Recently added apps

    • Most used apps

    • Suggested content

  • You can also pin or unpin apps directly by right-clicking them

Windows 11 allows more Start layout options like centered icons or expanded views.



4. Modify the Taskbar

  • Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar

  • Adjust settings like :

    • Taskbar alignment (center or left)

    • Which icons appear (system tray, search, widgets, etc.)

    • Taskbar behavior (auto-hide, show badges, etc.)

Tip: Keep only necessary icons on the taskbar for a cleaner UI.



5. Adjust Accent Colors & Dark Mode

  • Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors

  • Enable Dark mode, Light mode, or Custom

  • Pick an accent color or let Windows choose based on your background

  • Apply accent colors to :

    • Start menu

    • Taskbar

    • Title bars

This allows for a more unified and modern visual experience.



6. Change Fonts and Icon Sizes

  • For display scaling, go to Settings > System > Display

  • Adjust Scale (100%, 125%, etc.) and Resolution

  • You can also right-click on the desktop > View > Choose icon size (Small, Medium, Large)

Larger fonts and icons can improve accessibility on high-resolution monitors.



7. Enable or Disable Widgets and News Feed (Windows 11)

  • Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar

  • Turn Widgets ON or OFF

  • You can also customize widget cards like Weather, Calendar, or Traffic

Removing unused widgets improves performance and reduces distractions.



8. Set Up Virtual Desktops for Workflow

  • Press Windows + Tab > Click New Desktop

  • Organize apps across desktops (e.g., one for work, one for entertainment)

  • Rename desktops for easy navigation

Virtual desktops make multitasking easier and keep your UI clean.



9. Customize File Explorer Layout

  • Open File Explorer > View

  • Choose display options like :

    • Details

    • List

    • Tiles

    • Icons (Small to Extra Large)

  • Set folder options via Options > View tab

You can also pin frequent folders to Quick Access for faster navigation.



10. Use Third-Party Tools (Optional)

For advanced customization, consider these tools :

  • Rainmeter – Custom desktop widgets and skins

  • Start11 – Customize the Start Menu and Taskbar

  • Wallpaper Engine – Dynamic and animated wallpapers

Use third-party tools with caution and from trusted sources only.


Conclusion

Customizing the Windows user interface transforms your PC into a workspace that suits your style and needs. 

From changing colors and themes to arranging your desktop and taskbar, Windows gives you the flexibility to design a digital environment that’s both functional and beautiful.

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