Windows 11 introduced a sleek new design with rounded corners on windows and menus. While many users enjoy this modern aesthetic, others prefer the classic sharp-edged look of previous Windows versions. Fortunately, there are several ways to disable rounded corners in Windows 11 and return to a more traditional appearance.
Use a Third-Party Tool
The most effective method to remove rounded corners is using a dedicated third-party utility.
Step 1: Download the Win11DisableRoundedCorners tool from GitHub[1].
Step 2: Extract the ZIP file to a folder on your computer.
Step 3: Run the Win11DisableRoundedCorners.exe file as administrator.
Step 4: The tool will automatically download necessary files and patch the Desktop Window Manager.
Step 5: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
This method directly modifies system files to disable rounded corners globally across Windows 11. It’s highly effective but comes with some risks, as it alters core OS components.
Adjust Visual Effects Settings
For a built-in Windows option that partially reduces rounded corners:
Step 1: Right-click the Start button and select “System”.
Step 2: Click “About” then “Advanced system settings”.
Step 3: In the Performance section, click “Settings”.
Step 4: Select “Adjust for best performance” to disable most visual effects.
Step 5: Click “Apply” and “OK” to save changes.
This method disables many visual effects, including some instances of rounded corners. However, it doesn’t remove all rounded elements and significantly alters Windows 11’s overall appearance.
Use the Windows Registry
Advanced users can try a registry modification:
Step 1: Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\DWM
Step 3: Right-click in the right pane, select “New > DWORD (32-bit) Value”.
Step 4: Name the new value “ForceEffectMode”.
Step 5: Double-click the new value and set it to “2”.
Step 6: Restart your computer.
This registry tweak attempts to force Windows to use a classic theme, potentially removing rounded corners. However, its effectiveness varies across different Windows 11 versions and may not work on all systems.
Install ExplorerPatcher
ExplorerPatcher is a comprehensive Windows 11 customization tool that includes an option to disable rounded corners:
Step 1: Download ExplorerPatcher from GitHub[15].
Step 2: Run the installer and follow the prompts.
Step 3: Right-click the taskbar and select “Properties”.
Step 4: Navigate to the “Other” tab.
Step 5: Check the box for “Disable rounded corners for application windows”.
Step 6: Click “Apply” and restart your computer.
ExplorerPatcher offers extensive customization options beyond just removing rounded corners, making it a powerful tool for users who want to modify multiple aspects of Windows 11’s interface.
When choosing a method to remove rounded corners, consider the trade-offs between effectiveness, system impact, and potential risks. Third-party tools offer the most comprehensive solution but require trusting external software. Built-in Windows options are safer but less effective. Always create a system restore point before making significant changes to your operating system.
Remember that removing rounded corners may impact the overall visual coherence of Windows 11’s design. Some applications may still retain rounded elements, leading to an inconsistent appearance across your system. Additionally, future Windows updates could potentially revert these changes, requiring you to reapply your preferred method.