Windhawk: The top free Windows customization app

Windhawk Windows customization application with environment and functionality customization — Windhawk allows you to customize Windows easily, with ready-made mods that change functions and appearance without complicated settings.

🚀 Do you feel like Windows doesn't let you customize it? With Windhawk 1.7.3 you can change the look, functions and small details that bother you – easily and for free. The new version is faster, more stable and now supports ARM64 computers. The best part? You don't need to be an expert to use it!

What is Windhawk and why does it stand out?

Imagine a “store” full of little add-ons that change specific parts of Windows. That’s Windhawk. It lets you easily install features that enhance your experience, without complicated setup.

Version 1.7.3 is more stable and efficient. It now supports ARM64 devices (such as newer laptops and Surface), has improved memory management and smoother operation. The interface is also available in Greek, although the descriptions of the plugins remain in English.

What you can do with Windhawk

🎨 Give Windows a new look

You can restore features that are missing from Windows 11, change the position of the taskbar (top, bottom, or side), show labels on icons again, and adjust their size. Example: if you're annoyed that programs don't show a name on the taskbar, you can turn it back on.

⚡ Make the computer more direct

You can remove unnecessary visual effects and animations that slow down older computers. On a 4-5 year old laptop, the difference in opening windows and menus is noticeable.

🖱️ Improve menus and options

Right-clicking can be made cleaner and more practical. Remove options you don't use and keep only the necessary ones. This saves time in everyday use.

🪟 Especially for Windows 11 – Restore removed features

Many users want Windows 10 features back. With Windhawk you can bring back more rows of icons, vertical taskbar, and other useful options that are no longer there by default.

🔧 Customize the taskbar as you wish

You can change its height, customize the appearance of the date and time, or modify the notification area. This way, the desktop adapts to your needs.

✅ Why choose it?

Completely free – no subscriptions
Simple installation and easy activation of plugins
Lightweight operation without burdening the system
Frequent updates and active community
Windows 10 and Windows 11 support
ARM64 device support
Ability to instantly disable any plugin

❌ What to watch out for

Does not work on Windows 7 or 8
Some plugins may stop working after major Windows updates
Some plugin descriptions are only in English
Advanced settings take a little getting used to

🆕 What's New in Version 1.7.3

ARM64 support: Full compatibility with new generation computers
Improved stability: Better memory management and fewer errors
Faster loading: Faster startup and activation of plugins
Safe mode: Ability to start without active plugins if a problem occurs

FAQ

Is Windhawk completely free?

Yes, it's 100% free and open source. There are no subscriptions, in-app purchases, or ads. You can download and use it without any restrictions.

Is it safe for my computer?

Yes, it is considered safe when used correctly. Its code is open source and community-controlled. The changes it makes are not permanent and can be disabled immediately. However, as with any customization tool, it is a good idea to only install mods with good reviews.

Will it make my computer slower?

No. Windhawk runs lightly in the background and uses minimal resources. In many cases it can make the system more streamlined by removing unnecessary effects or memory-consuming functions.

What if I don't like the changes?

You can disable any mod with one click. All changes are reversible and no reinstallation of Windows is required.

Does it work on all versions of Windows?

Supports Windows 10 and Windows 11, including newer ARM64 devices. Does not work on Windows 7 or Windows 8.

How difficult is it to use?

Using it is simple: install the program, select the mod you want, and click install. No technical knowledge or system settings are required.

Will it affect my computer's warranty?

No. Windhawk does not permanently modify the system or interfere with computer hardware. It can be completely uninstalled at any time.

The Most Popular Mods and What They Offer

Here are the most popular mods, organized by category, with practical examples of use:

🎨 Appearance

📝 Taskbar Labels for Windows 11 – Adds names to icons, ideal if you work with many open programs.
📐 No Rounded Corners – Removes rounded corners for a more "classic" look.
🌫️ Window Shadow Customizer – Adjusts the shadow around windows for a more subtle effect.
🖱️ Classic Context Menu – Restores the full classic right-click menu without any extra steps.
🧮 Old Task Manager Theme – Brings back the old look of Task Manager.

⚡ Performance & Convenience

🖲️ Scroll Anywhere – Scroll without having to precisely aim at the scroll bar.
⏱️ Always Show Seconds on Taskbar Clock – Displays seconds on the clock, useful for accurate synchronization.
🚀 Disable Startup Animations – Reduces startup effects for a faster loading feel.
🌀 Smooth Scrolling – Makes scrolling smoother in windows and lists.
🔀 Custom Alt+Tab Switcher – Customizes window switching for more comfortable working.

🪟 Taskbar

📎 Center Taskbar Icons (Custom) – Centers or moves the icons as you wish.
🧊 Taskbar Transparency – Adjusts transparency for a more modern look.
📏 Resizable Taskbar – Allows changing the height of the taskbar.
🚫 Disable Snap Assist – Disables automatic window placement suggestion.

📁 File Explorer

📂 Disable File Explorer Ribbon – Simplifies the File Explorer top menu.
🗂️ Classic File Explorer – Restores the classic look of the file explorer.

🛠️ Customizations via Windhawk

🧭 Classic Taskbar Clock – Brings back the old style clock with full date.
🪞 Remove Taskbar Blur – Removes the blur effect for a clearer image.
📌 Pin More Items to Taskbar – Allows more pinned icons.
🧩 Classic Volume Mixer – Brings back the classic audio mixer with separate settings for each application.
🖼️ Disable Window Animations – Removes opening effects for instant response.
🧹 Remove Edge from Context Menu – Removes unused options from the right-click menu.
🧮 Classic Calculator – Brings back the classic Windows 7 calculator.
🪟 Vertical Taskbar Support – Allows proper operation when the taskbar is vertical.

🎯 Summarizing

Windhawk is one of the most practical customization tools for Windows 10 and 11. It allows you to restore missing features, improve speed, and configure the desktop environment exactly the way you want.

It's free, lightweight, and easy to use. If you want more flexibility and control over your system, it's definitely worth a try.

You can uninstall it at any time, so there's no risk. Try it out and see how different your Windows can be.

🌐 Official Page (Home Page) 📥 Download Windhawk for free

Last updated: February 2026

✍️ Evangelos
Its creator LoveForTechnology.net — an independent and trusted source for tech guides, tools, and practical solutions. Each article is based on personal testing, evidence-based research, and care for the average user. Here, technology is presented simply and clearly.

Saturday 28 February 2026