How to Change the Windows Boot Screen with HackBGRT

Personalizing your computer isn't just about changing the wallpaper or icons. If you really want to feel like your computer is unique, one of the most attractive options is to modify the Windows startup screen. Although it may seem complicated, there is a specific Windows tool called HackBGRT that allows you to change the logo you see when your PC boots up, giving it that personal touch that makes a difference from the first second.

Are you bored with seeing the same Windows logo every time you start your computer? If you've ever wondered how some manufacturers display their own logo or why you can't replace it with an image or design you create yourself, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make it happen, step by step, with all the necessary precautions to make the process safe and simple.

Why customize the Windows boot screen?

Give your computer a personalized start-up touch It has a special charm. Until recently, this was a feature reserved for manufacturers, but thanks to tools like HackBGRT, any advanced user can now display their own image, logo, or design instead of the usual Windows symbol.

Besides being an aesthetic issue, Modifying the boot logo can increase your sense of control over your system. and, in some cases, improve visual security by knowing that if your logo appears correctly, no one has tampered with the system startup with suspicious software.

Preliminary considerations before using HackBGRT

Before you jump into changing the boot logo, it is important to review several aspects to avoid trouble and make sure your equipment is compatible with this procedure.

Make sure your PC is using UEFI and not legacy BIOS.

HackBGRT only works with systems that use UEFI as boot firmware. If your computer still uses the old one BIOS legacy, you will not be able to perform this customization using this tool.

• Balance Win + R to open the Run box.
• Write msinfo32 and press Enter.
• In the right panel of the window, look for the option BIOS modeIf “UEFI” appears, you can proceed.

Secure Boot must be disabled

In order for HackBGRT to be able to modify the files that manage the boot logo, It is essential to disable Secure Boot (Secure Boot) from the BIOS or UEFI settings. Each manufacturer may locate this option in different sections, but it's usually under "Security," "Boot," or "Authentication."

• Restart your computer and enter the BIOS by pressing F1, F2, F12, Esc or Del immediately upon turning it on.
• Look for the option Safe start and set it as Disabled.
• Save your changes and exit. Your computer will restart automatically.

Prepare the image that will be your new startup logo

Not just any image will do. To avoid errors during the logo change, the image must meet several requirements. technical requirements:

• Size of 200 × 200 o 300 × 300 pixels.
• Format 24-bit BMP, with a 54-byte header. Tools like Paint or Photoshop allow you to save it correctly.
• The file name must be splash.bmp.

Back up your system or UEFI partition

Modifying the system boot is never without risk.An essential precaution is to back up your UEFI partition or, at the very least, create a system restore point.

• Sign in Control panel from the Start menu.
• Choose System and Security > File History.
• Click on System Image Backup, choose “On a hard drive” and select an external drive.
• Click Start Backup and wait for the process to complete.

You can also create a system restore point:

• Type “Create restore point” in the Windows magnifying glass and select that option.
• Click “Create” in the system properties and follow the steps.

What is HackBGRT and how does it work?

HackBGRT is an open source tool designed specifically for UEFI-enabled computers that allows you to easily modify the Windows boot logo.

This utility acts on the table BGRT (Boot Graphics Resource Table) UEFI firmware, where the image that appears during boot is stored. The best thing about HackBGRT is that its method is independent of the motherboard manufacturer, making it compatible with the vast majority of current computers with this type of firmware.

Download and install HackBGRT

• Download HackBGRT from your official repository on GitHub.
• The downloaded file is in ZIP format. Extract its contents to an easily accessible folder.
• Inside the folder, locate setup.exe and run it as administrator.

At this point, the tool will open a window of the symbol of the system from which it will guide you through the process. By pressing I on your keyboard you will start the installation and configuration.

Step by Step: Change the Windows Boot Logo with HackBGRT

1. Confirm the settings in Notepad: When you launch HackBGRT, a configuration file will open in Notepad. If you don't want to make any advanced settings, simply save and close the window.
2. Edit or import the image with Paint: When you close Notepad, Paint will open automatically. You can create a drawing from scratch or open a BMP image you've prepared.
3. Save the image with the exact name: Save the file as splash.bmp in 24-bit BMP format. Note that the name and format are not changed, as HackBGRT will search for that specific image.
4. Access the EFI partition from Paint: When you save, Paint will show you a hidden (EFI) partition where HackBGRT manages boot images. Navigate to the folder EFI > HackBGRT and paste or replace the current image with your own.
5. Close Paint and the console window: Once you've replaced the image, close all windows. You'll see a message in the HackBGRT console indicating that the installation was completed successfully.
6. Restart the computer: When the system reboots, you should see your new logo on the Windows startup screen.

How to restore the original Windows logo?

To return the Windows logo to its original state, HackBGRT allows you to easily revert changes:

• Open HackBGRT again with administrator permissions.
• From the window of commands, press D to uninstall the custom logo and restore the factory logo.
• The system will notify you, and after a reboot, you'll see the classic logo on the boot screen again.

What do I do if my computer displays the manufacturer's logo?

Some models show during startup the manufacturer's logo hardwareThis logo is stored in the motherboard's firmware and cannot be modified with HackBGRT. HackBGRT customization only affects the Windows logo and does not alter or remove the manufacturer's logo. Modifying this logo requires specific utilities and a more delicate process, generally recommended only for advanced users.

Is HackBGRT safe to use? Recommendations and risks

Modifying the boot process entails potential risksAlthough HackBGRT is well developed and has an active community that offers support, it's always advisable to follow these recommendations:

• Make a backup of the UEFI partition, or at least the entire system, before proceeding.
• Download HackBGRT only from official sites or trusted repositories.
• Verify that the image you intend to use meets the required technical specifications.
• Temporarily disable your antivirus if it blocks the modification, and then re-enable it.
• If you are using dual OS, confirm that the UEFI loader is supported and that you are not using the legacy method.

Just a single misuse or incomplete modification can render the system inoperable, so if you're inexperienced, it's best to seek help from someone with technical knowledge.

Alternative options for other systems and methods

On systems with legacy BIOS, HackBGRT is not functional. To change the logo on these older systems, some tools like 8oot Logo Changer existed in the past, but they are no longer supported on Windows 10 or Windows 11. Modify the file bootres.dll To alter the logo in legacy BIOS is a much more complex and risky process, recommended only for expert users willing to perform repairs if something goes wrong.

Frequently asked questions and additional recommendations

• Can I use PNG or JPG images? No, only 24-bit BMP files with a 54-byte header are accepted.
• Can I change the logo in Windows 11? Yes, as long as you use UEFI and can disable Secure Boot.
• Does it affect system performance or stability? No, there should be no changes to the normal operation of Windows, except for the visual appearance.

Customizing the boot screen with HackBGRT is an interesting option for those who want to give their device a personal and unique touch. By following the recommendations and steps described, you can transform that first impression into something distinctive, while maintaining the security and stability of your system. If at any time you want to return to the original logo, reverting it is quick and easy, always ensuring the integrity of your operating system.