You can get the classic Windows Longhorn Sidebar on Windows 10 and 11 by using third-party customization software or custom operating system mods. Since Microsoft completely removed desktop gadgets and sidebars after Windows 7, you must rely on open-source community replicas to safely revive the nostalgic 2003–2005 “Plex” and “Slate” aesthetic. Method 1: The Safest Route (Rainmeter + Longhorn Skin)
The easiest and safest way to get the sidebar without breaking system files is to use Rainmeter, a lightweight desktop customization tool. Download and install the latest version of Rainmeter.
Head to GitHub and download the fediaFedia Longhorn Sidebar Skin. Double-click the downloaded .rmskin file to install it.
Set the sidebar opacity to 50% in the Rainmeter settings to match the authentic pre-reset look.
This skin features functional classic tiles like the clock, slide show, and search bar. Method 2: The Dedicated Standalone App (AvalonBar)
If you want a dedicated application that runs independently of Rainmeter and accurately replicates the original sidebar infrastructure, you can use a custom sidebar app.
Download AvalonBar, a modern open-source remake available on the AvalonBar GitHub Repository.
Install the program and enable Run at startup in the application options.
Choose between 9 default historical themes (including Plex, Slate, and Jade styles).
Use its Tile Gallery to pin classic widgets and extend the sidebar layout directly over or alongside your modern taskbar. Method 3: The Full Transformation (Windows Longbridge)
For enthusiasts who want an entirely authentic operating system overhaul rather than just a sidebar app, the community created a custom Windows 10 modification.
Windows Longbridge is a highly customized, stable ISO based on modern Windows 10.
It natively integrates pre-reset Longhorn sidebar gadgets, fluid prototype UI animations, and classic search mechanics.
It features historical visual assets managed directly via a built-in Windows Longbridge Theme Manager.
Note: Only install custom ISOs inside a virtual machine or on a secondary test bench computer to keep your primary environment secure.
If you want to complete the 2004 aesthetic,.. in 2025? – Windows Longbridge
Leave a Reply