Customising Your Windows 10 Boot Screen: The Full Guide
Thinking about giving your Windows 10 startup a bit of a fresh look? It’s not as tricky as it sounds! Changing the boot logo involves tinkering with some system settings and using a couple of specialised tools. Sure, it sounds a bit techy, but once you get the hang of it, the satisfaction is worth it. Here’s the straightforward rundown on making your startup screen uniquely yours—no buzzwords, just the essentials.
A quick heads-up: poking around in system settings can be risky. It’s a good idea to back everything up beforehand — it’ll save you a headache if something goes awry.
Make a Backup Like a Pro
Before you dive in, it’s smart to back up your system. No one wants to lose data if something doesn’t go to plan. Use Windows’ built-in System Image Backup or a tool like Macrium Reflect. Head over to Control Panel > System and Security > Backup and Restore (Windows 7) to set it up. Think of this as your safety net — a quick backup can save a lot of headaches later on.
Find the Right Software to Tweak the Boot Screen
Next, you’ll need some software to handle the modification. There are a few reputable options out there. HackBGRT is popular among folks who like to customise their systems. You can download it from the official GitHub. Always stick to verified sources to stay safe from malware — nobody wants a nasty surprise.
Prepare Your Logo Image
Select an image that matches your style. Make sure it’s in the correct format — BMP is the way to go. You’ll also want to resize it to fit (around 300×300 pixels is a good starting point, but check the software’s instructions). Tools like Paint.NET or GIMP do a great job for resizing. Save the file somewhere easy to find, like C:\Images\bootlogo.bmp. A clear image now prevents hours of troubleshooting later.
Time to Swap the Logo
Open your chosen software and follow its directions to replace the Windows logo. For example, with HackBGRT, you’ll need to edit hackbgrt_config.xml to point to your new image. Remember to run the program as an Administrator — right-click and select Run as administrator. You might also need to disable Secure Boot in your BIOS, which can be a bit of a maze. Usually, you’ll find this setting in Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart now > Troubleshoot > UEFI Firmware Settings.
Once you’ve set everything up, restart your PC and see if the new boot logo appears. If it’s still showing the old one, double-check your file path and Secure Boot settings. A small oversight can cause big delays.
Boot Up and Show Off Your New Look
The moment of truth! Restart your PC and enjoy your personalised startup screen. Most times it works seamlessly, but if not, revisit the software’s guide or check online forums for solutions. Remember, this tweak only affects the look — your system’s performance stays the same.
Tips for a Smoother Customisation Experience
Here are a few handy tips: Always back up first. Use high-quality images—blurry or low-res pics will look rough when your PC boots. When editing sensitive config files, keep a copy of the original files just in case. And stay up-to-date with your software — updates can improve compatibility with your Windows version. Stuck? Online communities like Reddit’s r/Windows10 are full of helpful advice.
FAQs about Changing Your Boot Logo
Can messing with the boot logo break my system?
It’s unlikely, but there is some risk involved. If you tamper with Secure Boot or BIOS settings, you might run into boot issues. That’s why a backup is your best friend — it’s your safety net if things go sideways.
What if my PC won’t start after changing the logo?
If your PC throws a tantrum, restoring your backup is the way to go. You might need a Windows Recovery Drive or boot into Safe Mode. To access Safe Mode, restart your PC three times during startup to trigger Automatic Repair, then select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, and choose Enable Safe Mode. From there, you can undo the changes.
Is it legal to do this?
For personal use, yes — it’s generally fine. However, if you’re planning to sell or distribute modified systems, be mindful of licensing restrictions and copyright.
Can I revert to the original Windows boot logo?
Absolutely. Most tools like HackBGRT make it simple to revert. Usually, running an uninstall.bat or deleting the config file gets you back to the default. Just remember to re-enable Secure Boot if you disabled it.
Is this free?
Yes — many options like HackBGRT are completely free. Just download them from official sources to stay safe and avoid unnecessary hassles.
Final Thoughts
Customising your boot logo in Windows 10 isn’t difficult — it’s a fun way to personalise your PC. Just back up your data first, choose the right images, and follow the steps carefully. In no time, you’ll have a startup screen that’s uniquely yours. And why stop there? Tweak your themes, wallpapers, or widgets to make your setup truly one-of-a-kind.
Here’s a quick checklist before you get started:
- Back up everything first.
- Use trusted software for modifications.
- Choose a BMP image of the right size and quality.
- Edit config files with care and run as administrator.
- Restart to see your customised logo in action!
Hope this guide saves you a few hours of head-scratching. Good luck!