Windows start menu orb

Customizing your Windows experience extends beyond wallpapers and themes. One of the key features of the Windows 7 operating system is the Start Menu, which acts as a hub for launching applications and accessing various settings. Among its various customizable elements, the Start Menu orb stands out. The default Windows 7 orb can feel monotonous over time. Fortunately, changing the Start Menu orb allows you to personalize your computing experience. This guide will take you through the detailed steps to change the Start Menu orb in Windows 7.

Understanding the Start Menu Orb

The Start Menu orb is the circular button located at the bottom left of the screen. It serves as the gateway to the Start Menu, containing essential shortcuts, recently used programs, and features such as search and shut down. The default orb is emblematic of the Windows 7 design and often shows the Windows logo, but many users may desire a more personalized appearance. Different orbs can convey different themes or moods and can enhance the overall visual experience of Windows.

Requirements for Changing the Start Menu Orb

Before diving into the process, ensure your system meets the following prerequisites:

• Windows 7 Operating System: This guide is specifically for Windows 7. Other versions may not allow the same customization.
• Image Editor Software: You can use software such as GIMP or Photoshop to edit images, which is crucial for creating your custom orb.
• Resource Hacker: This useful tool allows you to modify Windows executable files and resources.
• A Backup: Always have a backup of your original files and system settings. This ensures that you can revert back if something goes wrong.
• Basic Knowledge of Windows File Management: Familiarity with navigating system files is essential.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Start Menu Orb

Step 1: Create Your Custom Orb

The first step is creating the image you want to use as your Start Menu orb.

1. Choose a Design: Think about the style you’d like to achieve. You can choose something minimalist or a graphic that reflects your personality. The standard orb shape is circular.

2. Edit Your Image:

   • Open your image editing software and create a new image file.
   • The recommended size for the orb is 100×100 pixels, but you can go larger if you design it well.
   • Save your image in PNG format to maintain quality.

3. Convert the Image: Once your design is ready, you need to convert it to a BMP file format. The Start Menu orb specifically uses the BMP format for compatibility.

Step 2: Prepare Your Computer

Before changing the orb, it is prudent to prepare your system:

1. Backup the Original Orb:

   • Navigate to C:WindowsSystem32.
   • Locate the file named explorer.exe. This file contains the original Start Menu orb.
   • Copy this file and place it in a separate folder, naming it explorer_backup.exe.

2. Obtain Resource Hacker:

   • Download Resource Hacker from its official website. This will allow you to edit system files conveniently.

Step 3: Using Resource Hacker

1. Open Resource Hacker:

   • Launch Resource Hacker.

2. Load the explorer.exe File:

   • Click on “File,” then “Open,” and navigate to C:WindowsSystem32. Choose the explorer.exe file to open it.

3. Find the Start Menu Orb:

   • In the left pane, navigate to Bitmap. Expand it to display the razor and the sub-sections to find the start menu.
   • You might see several bitmaps numbered. Generally, the Start Menu orb is located under the indexed bitmaps with an index number like 100 or 101.

4. Replacing the Bitmap:

   • Click on the bitmap entry corresponding to the Start Menu orb. Right-click and select “Replace a Resource.”
   • In the dialog, click on “Open file with new bitmap” and select the BMP file of your new orb design.
   • Click “Replace.”

Step 4: Saving Changes

1. Save the Modified File:
   • Once you have replaced the original bitmap with your custom design, click on “File” and then “Save As” to save your modified explorer.exe file.
   • Instead of directly saving over the existing file, it’s safer to save it as a new file (e.g., explorer_new.exe).

Step 5: Restoring the Modified File

1. Implementing the New Explorer:

   • You will need to take ownership of the original explorer.exe to replace it with your modified version.
     • Right-click on explorer.exe, and select “Properties.” Under the “Security” tab, click “Advanced,” then “Owner.” Change the owner to your user account.

2. Replace the Original Explorer:

   • Rename explorer.exe to explorer_old.exe (keep this as your backup).
   • Copy your modified explorer_new.exe into the C:WindowsSystem32 directory and rename it to explorer.exe.

Step 6: Restart Windows Explorer

1. Restarting the Process:

   • To see the changes take effect, you must restart Windows Explorer.
   • Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
   • Find explorer.exe, select it, and click on “End Task.”
   • Once it’s terminated, go to “File” in the Task Manager and select “Run New Task.”
   • Type explorer.exe and hit “Enter.”

2. Check Your New Start Menu Orb:

   • If everything has gone smoothly, you should see your newly designed Start Menu orb in place of the default one.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite following the steps outlined, you might encounter issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• No Changes: If the orb hasn’t changed, ensure you replaced the correct bitmap and saved the explorer.exe properly. Double-check the bitmap index numbers.

• Windows Not Booting: If Windows fails to start, you may have replaced the original explorer.exe incorrectly. Boot into Safe Mode and restore the original explorer.exe backup.

• Image Quality Issues: If the image appears pixelated or distorted, check that it was saved correctly and that the dimensions align with the standard size.

Conclusion

Changing the Start Menu orb in Windows 7 can significantly enhance your device’s aesthetics and personal expression. This guide provided you with a comprehensive walkthrough to successfully achieve customization, from designing your orb to safely replacing system files.

Explore freely, but always remember to keep a backup of original files and proceed with caution. Enjoy the satisfying feeling that comes from a personalized interface that speaks to your individuality! Embrace the creativity and uniqueness that customization brings to your Windows experience.