How to Make Windows 11 Look Like macOS for free

Both Windows 11 and ChromeOS have imitated the MAC OS silver theme. But to go even further, you can add a free MAC OS Theme to Windows 11. Below is an article how to do this, and my own results. Enjoy.

Do you love the sleek design of macOS but prefer using Windows 11? You’re not alone! Many users appreciate the functionality of Windows but want to enjoy the elegance of macOS. In this guide, we’ll show you how to completely transform your Windows 11 interface into a macOS look-alike.

By the end of this tutorial, your Windows PC will resemble macOS with a familiar dock, icons, and menu bars. The best part? Everything you need is included in one handy zip file, except for one tool, Ultra UX Theme Patcher, which must be downloaded separately.

So, let’s dive in!

Why Customize Windows to Look Like macOS?

Before we begin, let’s understand why you’d want to customize Windows 11 to mimic macOS.

• Aesthetic Appeal: macOS is known for its clean, modern, and minimalist design. Many people find it more visually pleasing than Windows’ default interface.
• Familiarity: If you’re used to macOS but need to work on Windows, making Windows look like macOS can help bridge the gap.
• Enhanced Productivity: With the macOS-like dock and layout, you might find it easier to navigate, boosting your productivity.

Now that we know why, let’s move on to the tools you’ll need to achieve this transformation.

Tools You’ll Need

Here’s a list of tools we’ll be using to give your Windows 11 a complete macOS makeover:

1. 7TSP Icon Theme – Replaces default Windows icons with macOS-style icons.
2. StartAllBack – Customizes the start menu and taskbar to match macOS.
3. MicaForEveryone – Adds macOS-like transparency effects.
4. OldNewExplorer – Modifies File Explorer to resemble Finder in macOS.
5. macOS Themes – Applies macOS themes to your system.
6. Ultra UX Theme Patcher – Allows third-party themes to be applied to Windows.
7. macOS Cursor – Adds the macOS pointer.

Everything except Ultra UX Theme Patcher is included in the zip file, which you can download via the button provided. Ultra UX Theme Patcher will need to be downloaded manually.

Download (ZIP File)

also download Ultra UX Theme Patcher

Step 1: Backup Your System

Before making any changes, create a system restore point. This will help you revert your system in case something doesn’t go as planned.

Here’s how to create a restore point:

1. Go to the search bar and type “Create a restore point.”
2. Select your system drive (usually C:), then click on “Configure.”
3. Enable “Turn on system protection” and set the max usage slider to around 5%.
4. Click “Apply” and then “OK.”
5. Now, click “Create” to name and save your restore point.

Step 2: Install Ultra UX Theme Patcher

This is the only tool you’ll need to download separately. Ultra UX Theme Patcher allows you to install third-party themes on Windows, which is essential for applying the macOS themes.

1. Head over to Ultra UX Theme Patcher’s official website and download the latest version.
2. Run the installer and follow the instructions to patch your system.
3. Restart your computer once the patching is complete.

Step 3: Apply macOS Themes

With Ultra UX Theme Patcher installed, you can now apply third-party themes to your system. The macOS themes included in the zip file mimic the look and feel of macOS Monterey or Big Sur.

1. Unzip the provided files.
2. Navigate to the “Themes” folder.
3. Copy the theme files into C:\Windows\Resources\Themes.
4. Right-click on the desktop and select “Personalize.”
5. In the Themes section, you’ll find the new macOS themes. Apply the one you prefer.

This will give Windows 11 the general appearance of macOS, but we’re not done yet!

Step 4: Use StartAllBack for Taskbar and Start Menu Customization

Windows 11’s taskbar and start menu differ quite a bit from macOS’s dock and menu bar. We’ll use StartAllBack to fix that.

1. Install StartAllBack from the zip file.
2. Once installed, launch the program.
3. In the settings, select the “Dock” style for the taskbar to make it look like macOS’s dock.
4. Adjust the Start menu layout to resemble the macOS top menu bar.

Now, your taskbar and Start menu should closely resemble those on macOS!

Step 5: Replace Icons with 7TSP Icon Theme

To complete the look, you’ll need to change the default Windows icons to macOS-style icons using 7TSP Icon Theme.

1. Open 7TSP from the zip file.
2. Select “Add a custom icon pack” and choose the macOS icons file.
3. Apply the changes and wait for the process to complete.

Once done, you’ll see that all system icons now look like those from macOS.

Step 6: Use MicaForEveryone for Transparency Effects

macOS is known for its sleek transparency effects, especially in windows and menus. MicaForEveryone allows you to add similar effects to Windows 11.

1. Run MicaForEveryone from the zip file.
2. Enable transparency effects and customize the intensity to your preference.
3. You can apply these effects to the Start menu, File Explorer, and even individual windows.

Now, your Windows 11 will have the signature transparent design that makes macOS so visually appealing.

Step 7: Modify File Explorer with OldNewExplorer

Windows 11’s File Explorer differs quite a bit from macOS’s Finder. To make it look more like Finder, we’ll use OldNewExplorer.

1. Install OldNewExplorer from the zip file.
2. In the settings, enable options to hide the ribbon and change the navigation pane to match macOS Finder.
3. Customize the folder icons and layout for a closer resemblance.

With these changes, your File Explorer should now look like macOS’s Finder.

Step 8: Add macOS Cursor

The final touch is to change your mouse cursor to the macOS style.

1. Open the “macOS Cursor” folder from the zip file.
2. Right-click the .inf file and select “Install.”
3. Open the Mouse Settings by typing “Mouse” into the search bar.
4. Go to the “Pointers” tab and choose the macOS cursor scheme from the list.

Apply the changes, and your cursor will now look like the one in macOS.

Final Steps: Reboot and Enjoy!

After completing all these steps, restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect.

Now, when your system boots up, you should be greeted with a beautifully transformed Windows 11 that looks and feels like macOS! You’ll enjoy the iconic macOS dock, icons, transparency effects, and the streamlined elegance of macOS right on your PC.

Source: https://techrifle.com/how-to-make-windows-11-look-like-macos-2024/


Below are my own results:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other add-ons:
Open Shell Menu: https://open-shell.github.io/Open-Shell-Menu/

Explorer Patcher: https://github.com/valinet/ExplorerPatcher/releases

Chrome White Theme: Classic with white Omnibox:

https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/classic-with-white-omnibo/lfjbdknljkihdgnabcdofiabofedjjkh?pli=1

Desktop Gadgets: https://gadgetpack.net/

MAC OS Sierra Mountains Wallpaper: https://wallpaperaccess.com/mac-4k

Windows 11 Local Account Workaround 2025: 3 Methods That Work

I’ve been setting up Windows 11 systems for clients for the past 18 months, and the forced Microsoft account requirement drives me crazy every single time.

Microsoft really wants you to use their cloud-connected account during Windows 11 setup. They’ve progressively removed the obvious “skip” or “offline account” options that existed in Windows 10.

But here’s the thing – you absolutely can still create a local account in Windows 11. I’ve tested three different methods this week on the latest 24H2 build, and they all work.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through each method step-by-step. You’ll learn the ms-cxh:localonly command trick, the reliable OOBE\BYPASSNRO approach, and the simple network disconnection method.

What is a Windows 11 Local Account Workaround?

A Windows 11 local account workaround is a method to bypass Microsoft’s requirement for signing in with a Microsoft account during initial setup or when adding new users.

These workarounds let you create traditional offline accounts that store credentials locally on your PC instead of syncing with Microsoft’s servers.

The methods range from simple command-line tricks to network manipulation techniques that force Windows to offer local account options.

Method 1: The ms-cxh:localonly Command (Fastest Method)

This method takes about 30 seconds and works on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and newer. I discovered it still works after Microsoft supposedly patched it in April 2025.

Here’s exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Get to the Sign-in Screen

Start your Windows 11 installation or setup process normally.

Continue through the initial screens until you reach the “Let’s connect you to a network” or “Sign in with Microsoft” screen.

Step 2: Open Command Prompt

Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. This opens Command Prompt during setup.

If Shift + F10 doesn’t work on your laptop, try Fn + Shift + F10 instead.

Step 3: Enter the Magic Command

Type this exact command in the Command Prompt window:

Command: start ms-cxh:localonly

Press Enter after typing the command.

Step 4: Complete Local Setup

The setup screen will refresh and show “Who’s going to use this device?” instead of the Microsoft account prompt.

Enter your desired username and click Next.

Create a password (optional but recommended) and set up your security questions.

✅ Pro Tip: This method works even with an active internet connection, unlike other workarounds.

Method 2: OOBE\BYPASSNRO Command Method

OOBE\BYPASSNRO stands for “Out-Of-Box Experience Bypass Network Requirement Option.” This method has worked reliably since Windows 11’s release.

I use this approach when the ms-cxh command fails or on older Windows 11 builds.

Step 1: Access Command Prompt During Setup

When you see the network connection or Microsoft account screen, press Shift + F10.

The Command Prompt window appears over the setup interface.

Step 2: Run the BYPASSNRO Command

Type this command exactly as shown:

Command: OOBE\BYPASSNRO

Press Enter to execute the command.

Step 3: Handle the Automatic Restart

Your computer will restart automatically. Don’t panic – this is normal.

The setup process starts over from the beginning.

Continue through the region and keyboard selection screens again.

Step 4: Look for the Skip Option

When you reach the network connection screen, you’ll now see “I don’t have internet” at the bottom.

Click that option, then select “Continue with limited setup” on the next screen.

Enter your username and password to create your local account.

⏰ Time Saver: Write down your region and keyboard preferences before running this command since you’ll need to re-enter them after the restart.

Method 3: Network Disconnection Approach

This method works by preventing Windows from connecting to Microsoft’s servers during setup. It’s the simplest approach for non-technical users.

I’ve successfully used this on both Home and Pro editions of Windows 11.

Option A: Physical Disconnection

For desktop computers with Ethernet cables:

Unplug the Ethernet cable from your computer before starting Windows setup

Proceed through setup until the network connection screen

Click “I don’t have internet” when it appears

Select “Continue with limited setup” to create a local account

For laptops using WiFi:

Turn off your router or move out of WiFi range

Start Windows setup without any network available

Follow the prompts for offline account creation

Option B: Software Disconnection

If you can’t physically disconnect, use these commands:

Press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt during setup.

Type these commands one at a time:

Commands:

ipconfig /release

netsh wlan disconnect

Close Command Prompt and click the back arrow on the setup screen.

The “I don’t have internet” option should now appear.

Option C: Task Manager Method

Some users report success with this alternative approach:

Press Shift + F10 during the network/account screen

Type “taskmgr” and press Enter to open Task Manager

Find “Network Connection Flow” in the process list

Right-click and select “End task”

The setup screen will refresh with local account options

Troubleshooting Common Issues

After helping dozens of people with these workarounds, I’ve encountered every possible problem. Here are solutions to the most common issues.

Shift + F10 Not Working

Some manufacturers disable this keyboard shortcut for security reasons.

Try these alternatives:

Fn + Shift + F10: Required on many laptops

Shift + Fn + F10: Different key order sometimes works

Enable in BIOS: Check for “Windows Setup Hotkeys” or similar option

Commands Not Recognized

If Windows says the command isn’t recognized, you might have a typo or wrong Windows version.

Double-check your spelling – commands are case-sensitive.

Verify you’re running Windows 11 (not Windows 10) by checking the setup screen design.

“I Don’t Have Internet” Missing

This happens when Microsoft detects you’re trying to bypass their requirements.

Solutions that work:

Restart the computer and try a different method

Use OOBE\BYPASSNRO instead of network disconnection

Try the ms-cxh:localonly command as it works with internet connected

Setup Gets Stuck After Command

Sometimes the setup screen freezes after entering commands.

Wait 30 seconds for the screen to refresh automatically.

If nothing happens, press Alt + F4 to close and restart the current setup step.

Local Account Option Disappears

Microsoft occasionally patches these methods in Windows updates.

I test all three methods monthly and update this guide when changes occur.

Check if you’re using the latest Windows 11 ISO – older versions may have different requirements.

Which Method Should You Use?

After testing these methods across different Windows 11 versions and hardware, here’s my recommendation framework.

Method Best For Success Rate Difficulty

ms-cxh:localonly Windows 11 24H2+ 95% Easy

OOBE\BYPASSNRO All versions 90% Medium

Network Disconnect Non-technical users 80% Easy

Start with the ms-cxh:localonly command if you’re on Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer.

Use OOBE\BYPASSNRO for older Windows 11 versions or if the first method fails.

Try network disconnection if you’re uncomfortable with command-line tools.

Version-Specific Recommendations

Windows 11 25H2 (Latest): ms-cxh:localonly works perfectly

Windows 11 24H2: Both ms-cxh and OOBE methods work

Windows 11 23H2 and older: OOBE\BYPASSNRO most reliable

Windows 11 Home vs Pro: All methods work on both editions

Privacy and Security Implications

Using a local account changes how Windows 11 handles your data. I’ve noticed significant differences in my testing.

Data Collection Differences

Local accounts don’t sync settings, passwords, or browsing data to Microsoft servers.

Your files stay on your PC unless you manually upload them to OneDrive.

Microsoft still collects telemetry data, but it’s not tied to your personal Microsoft account.

Feature Limitations

Some Windows 11 features require a Microsoft account:

Microsoft Store: Limited access without signing in

OneDrive sync: Manual setup required

Settings sync: Won’t work across devices

Find My Device: Not available

Security Considerations

Local accounts rely entirely on your chosen password strength.

You won’t get the additional security of two-factor authentication unless you set up third-party tools.

Password recovery becomes more difficult – Microsoft can’t reset a local account password.

⚠️ Important: Always create a password reset disk after setting up your local account to avoid lockout situations.

If you need help with other Windows 11 technical issues, check out our Windows 11 troubleshooting guide for comprehensive solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to bypass Microsoft account in Windows 11?

Yes, it’s completely legal to use a local account instead of a Microsoft account. Microsoft provides these options, though they don’t advertise them prominently. You’re not violating any terms of service.

Will Windows updates still work with a local account?

Windows updates work normally with local accounts. You’ll receive all security updates and feature updates just like Microsoft account users. The only difference is update preferences won’t sync across devices.

Can I switch from local account to Microsoft account later?

Yes, you can convert a local account to a Microsoft account anytime through Settings > Accounts > Your info. The process takes about 2 minutes and preserves all your files and programs.

Do these methods work on laptops and desktops?

All three methods work on both laptops and desktops. The only difference is the Shift + F10 key combination might require the Fn key on some laptop keyboards.

What happens if Microsoft patches these workarounds?

Microsoft regularly updates Windows 11 to close workarounds, but new methods typically emerge within weeks. The OOBE\BYPASSNRO command has survived multiple update cycles since 2021.

Can I use Microsoft Store apps with a local account?

You can browse and download free apps from Microsoft Store with a local account. Paid apps and certain features require signing in with a Microsoft account, but you can sign in just for the Store without converting your entire account.

Final Thoughts

I’ve helped over 200 clients set up Windows 11 with local accounts using these methods.

The ms-cxh:localonly command remains my go-to solution because it’s quick and works with internet connected.

Keep this guide bookmarked – Microsoft changes their setup process every few months, and I update these instructions whenever they do.

Remember that using a local account is your choice. Microsoft makes it harder each update, but these workarounds prove it’s still possible.

For broader Windows 11 system management tips, including file system configuration, see our Windows 11 file system guide.

Source: https://www.ofzenandcomputing.com/windows-11-local-account-workaround/

Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11 25h2 on an Incompatible Computer

Effortless Windows 11 Install on ANY PC: Ultimate Upgrade Assistant Guide

How To Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10

The FREE Microsoft Office Killer for MacOS | Hands-on with OnlyOffice

Microsoft Office Free Alternative OnlyOffice

Windows 11 Tips & Tricks You Need to Know! 2025

Windows Settings Won't Open: 5 Ways to Fix it in Windows 10

 The Settings app is one of the most important Windows 10 features because you control the whole system with it.

Basically, if you want to change most of the features in your OS, you are usually going through this app. And if it stops working, you can have serious issues.

What causes Settings not to open?

There can be a lot of reasons for which the Settings app won’t open in Windows 10 and just as many for which it won’t launch in Windows 11. Depending on their complexity, we outlined a few of the possible issues.

➡ An OS update – Sometimes, this problem manifests after a Windows update although before it worked just fine. The solution here is to roll back the update that caused the issue.

➡ Corrupted app – When it happens out of nowhere, without obvious reasons, the problem is usually caused by the corruption of the app by power outages, malware, or similar factors but the solutions below will help you fix it.

➡ Glitches and junk files – Too many junk files on your PC can cause serious damage in time but can also be responsible for this problem. Cleaning the unnecessary files from your PC is a must in this situation.

➡ System bugs – Sometimes, the system can be influenced by third-party corrupt apps and a simple uninstall or a reboot can get things back to normal. Booting in Safe Mode is also a solution because it prevents third-party apps from loading.

To boot in Safe Mode you just need to hold the Shift key while clicking the Start button, then the Power option, and selecting Restart.

NOTE

Even though this should technically help, it is possible to deal with a Windows 10 or even a Windows 11 PC that simply won’t boot into Safe Mode.

In this case, you should be able to use Windows Startup Repair to recover your Settings apps.

How do I fix Windows Settings won’t open?

1. Run the SFC/scannow command

1. 1. Click the Start button to open the Windows Search box.

2. 2. Type cmd in it and select Run as administrator to start Command Prompt with full privileges.

   

3. 3. Enter the following line and press Enter:sfc/scannow

   

4. 4. Wait until the process is done.

5. 5. Close Command Prompt and restart your computer. To do that, click the Start button, select the Power button, and choose Restart.

   

The SFC command will completely scan your computer for issues, and it will provide a suitable solution (if available)

So, it will for sure cover the Windows Settings app not opening problem, and besides that, it may solve some problems that you even didn’t know about.

If you have problems with the SFC process, we’ve got a guide that will help you learn what to do if the scannow command stops before finishing the process.

2. Use Powershell to reinstall preinstalled apps

1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the list.
2. Type or paste this code and press Enter to run it:powershell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $Env:SystemRoot\ImmersiveControlPanel\AppxManifest.xml
3. This process might take a while, so make sure that you wait until it’s finished.

3. Run DISM

1. Click the Start button, type cmd and choose Run as administrator to start Command Prompt with full rights.
2. Type in the following command and press Enter:DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
3. Wait for the process to finish, then click the Start button, select the Power button and choose Restart to reboot your PC.

Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is another built-in troubleshooting tool from Windows.

As its name says, DISM deploys the system image all over again, refreshing all the system features on the way, including the Settings app. Do not hesitate to learn what to do if DISM fails before finishing the process.

4. Update Windows

1. Click the Start button and type update, then select Check for updates from the results.
2. Now, click the Check for updates button. If there are any new updates, the system will download and install them.

Microsoft usually releases patches and fixes for various system problems through Windows Update.

The solution above still directs you to the Settings app so if you still can’t access it, the only solution you have in this case is to install the updates manually.

Go to the Windows Update Catalog page, find the latest update for your version of Windows 10, and follow further instructions to download the update directly.

Read more about this topic

• Updates and Settings are not opening in Windows 10/11
• Camera is being used by another app in Windows 10/11
• Quick Settings not working on Windows 11
• Fix: Settings and Updates not opening in Windows 10/11

5. Create a new user account

1. Click the Start button, type cmd and select Run as administrator to start Command Prompt with full privileges.
2. Type or paste the following command and press Enter to run it (make sure you replace username and password with the user name and password of your choice):net user /add username and password
3. Now give it administrator privileges by entering the following command and press Enter (make sure you replace username with the name of the user you created earlier):net localgroup administrators username /add
4. Now login with the new user you just created and try to open the Settings app again.

If your user account is broken or corrupted, you may not be able to access all the Windows 10 features. The same thing may happen if you’re using a user account that doesn’t have administrative rights.

So, make sure that your account has all the necessary permissions to access the Settings page. If not, you can create a new account and check if this solved the problem.

And we can also help you find out what to do if your user profile is corrupted.

What can I do if Windows 10 Settings won’t open in Safe Mode?

1. Press and hold the power button to force your computer to shut down (You may need to perform this action more than once).
2. Once your computer boots into the blue screen, select Troubleshoot among the options.
3. Next, go to Advanced options and choose Startup Repair.
4. Introduce the credentials associated with your user account and proceed with the Startup Repair.

If the Windows Settings won’t open (not even in Safe Mode), you should be able to recover them with this method.

Are there any other possible issues with the Settings app?

Here are some more examples of similar issues you can resolve with the same solutions:

• Windows 10 Settings app won’t open – The most common issue with the Settings app in Windows 10 is when you just click the icon, but nothing happens.
• Windows 10 Settings app missing – In some cases, you won’t be able to even locate the Settings app icon, as it completely disappeared from the Start Menu.
• Windows 10 Settings app crashes – Another common issue is when you’re actually able to open the Settings app, but it crashes immediately upon launch.
• Windows 10 Settings grayed out – And the least common (but still possible) scenario is when the Settings app icon is just grayed out in the Start Menu.

How can I quickly open the Settings app?

Sometimes, just a way of opening the Settings app might be the problem, so trying out different methods may lead to success. That’s why we encourage you to check a few more suggestions:

1. Use the Start button

This is the most simple way of doing it. Just click the Start button and select Settings.

2. Use the Search function

A close runner-up solution is to click the Start button, then type settings and open the app from the results.

3. Right-click the Start button

It’s also easy to right-click the Start button and select Settings from the list of options.

4. Use the Settings shortcut

You can also open the Settings app by using the Windows key + I shortcut from your keyboard. It’s extremely fast and effective.

Try to remember it because if you find yourself in a situation where the mouse is not responding or the screen is frozen, this might be the only method left.

5. Use the Run app

1. Press the Windows key + R to start the Run app.
2. Type ms-settings: (include the : character at the end. It’s not a mistake) and press Enter or click OK.

6. Use Command Prompt

1. Click the Start button, type cmd and select Run as administrator.
2. Type start ms-settings: and press Enter to run it.

Of course, there are many ways to open the Settings app. For instance, you can also ask Cortana to open it, but the important thing is to actually work.

What does Windows cannot find ms-settings mean?

Several of our readers encountered the message when trying to start Settings from the Command Prompt console: Windows cannot find ms-settings. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again.

Luckily, this is just a simple typing error. The correct command is start ms-settings:. Without the semicolon symbol (:) at the end, you get this error.

We hope that our solutions helped you solve the Settings app problem in Windows 10 and now everything is back to normal. Now, the Settings app can be just one side to the story. If no Windows 10 programs seem to work, you might want to take your troubleshooting even further.

If this issue occurred after a Windows update, make sure you installed any patch after it because Microsoft may have already released one.

Even if you still can’t access the Settings, you will get a notification in the system tray and you might be able to get it from there.

Now that you fixed the Settings app in Windows 10, you might be interested in the best Windows 10 optimizer software that can solve system issues and make your PC run faster.

For more questions and suggestions, reach out to the comments section below and we’ll be sure to take a look.

More about the topics: All the Windows 10 tips you need to Know



Source: Windows Settings Won't Open: 5 Ways to Fix it in Windows 10