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Changing and customizing border colors in Windows 11 can add a personal touch to your desktop experience. It helps to visually separate windows and can make your screen easier on the eyes. Windows 11 allows you to adjust these colors through simple settings, without needing any third-party apps.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Whether you want to highlight active windows or simply prefer a different color scheme, these instructions will help you achieve that easily.

The process is straightforward and requires only a few clicks. You don’t need any technical expertise, just follow along carefully.

By the end, you will know how to set and customize your window borders to match your style or improve your workflow.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before customizing border colors, make sure your Windows 11 is updated to at least the May 2021 update (version 21H1) or later. Some visual customization features depend on system updates.

Also, ensure that your device is not in High Contrast mode, as this can override color customizations.

Finally, you will need to turn on the accent color feature in Windows settings to see changes on your window borders.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change and Customize Border Colors

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Click the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar or press the Windows key on your keyboard. Then click the Settings gear icon. Alternatively, press Windows + I to open Settings directly.

This is the main hub where you control all system preferences including appearance.

Step 2: Navigate to Personalization

Inside the Settings window, look for the Personalization option in the left sidebar and click on it.

This section controls themes, colors, backgrounds, and fonts.

Step 3: Select Colors

Within Personalization, click on Colors from the right pane.

This page lets you control how Windows looks, including accent colors and transparency effects.

Step 4: Choose Your Accent Color

• Scroll down to find Accent color.
• Here, you can either let Windows pick an accent color from your background by selecting Automatically pick an accent color from my background, or choose your own by clicking on a color in the grid.

Selecting a custom color allows you to personalize the window borders to your liking. This color will be used for active window borders and some UI elements.

Step 5: Enable Accent Color on Title Bars and Window Borders

Still on the Colors page, scroll down to the section labeled Show accent color on the following surfaces.

Make sure to check the box next to Title bars and window borders. This tells Windows to apply your chosen accent color to the window borders.

If this option is not enabled, your selected color will not appear on window borders.

Step 6: Observe the Change

Open any window, such as File Explorer or Settings, and look at the border and title bar. It should now reflect the accent color you selected.

If you don’t see the change immediately, try closing and reopening the window or signing out and back into your user account.

Alternative Method: Using Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

If you want more precise control over window border colors beyond the accent color, you can edit the Windows Registry. However, this method is for advanced users and requires caution.

• Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
• Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelColors.
• Look for the key named WindowFrame. This controls the border color in RGB format.
• Double-click it and enter your preferred RGB values, like 0 120 215 for a blue border.
• Click OK and restart your computer to apply changes.

Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Always back up your registry before making changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I change border colors for inactive windows?

Windows 11 does not provide a built-in way to separately customize inactive window borders. The accent color applies mostly to active windows.

Why isn’t the accent color showing on my borders?

Ensure you have enabled Show accent color on title bars and window borders in the Colors settings. Also, check that your device is not in High Contrast mode and that you’re running a recent Windows 11 version.

Can I use any color for borders?

Yes, you can select any color from the accent color palette or define a custom color. The registry method allows even more specific RGB color choices.

Will changing border colors affect performance?

No, customizing border colors has a negligible impact on system performance.

Is there a way to disable borders completely?

Windows 11 does not provide an option to remove window borders entirely through standard settings.

When Nothing Works

If you are unable to change or see the border colors after following all steps, try the following:

• Restart your computer to ensure all settings apply correctly.
• Check for Windows updates and install any pending updates.
• Temporarily disable any third-party themes or customization software that might interfere.
• Use the built-in Windows Troubleshooter to check for display issues.
• Visit the official Microsoft Support page for further assistance.

Conclusion

Customizing border colors in Windows 11 is a simple way to make your desktop environment more personalized and visually appealing. By adjusting the accent color and enabling it on title bars and window borders, you can quickly change how your windows look.

For users seeking more control, the Registry Editor method offers advanced customization but should be used with caution. Always ensure your system is updated and settings are correctly enabled for the best experience.

With these steps, you can easily enhance your Windows 11 interface and enjoy a more colorful and organized workspace.