Windows Aero was first introduced in Windows Vista and adds a translucent and glass-like graphical user interface. This interface requires more system resources to run than previous versions of Windows, and some users may find it not necessary. Below are the steps on how to disable this feature.

Windows 7 users

  • Right-click an empty area on the desktop.
  • Select Personalize in the pop-up menu.
  • In the Personalization window, scroll down to the Basic and High Contrast Themes section and select the Windows 7 Basic theme.

Windows Vista users

  • Right-click an empty area on the desktop.
  • Select Window Color and Appearance in the pop-up menu.
  • Select Windows Vista Basic and click OK.

Windows Vista Home Basic does not have Windows Aero.

  • See the Windows Aero definition for further information and related links.
  • Microsoft Windows help and support.