- DWMBlurGlass allows you to recover the Liquid Glass/Aero type crystalline effect in Windows 11.
- Installation is simple and offers multiple visual customization options.
- Not all windows and apps They apply the effect, but the overall change is noticeable.
For some time now, users of Windows have observed with some nostalgia the visual effects that accompanied versions like Vista and 7, especially the famous Aero Glass interface. With the arrival of Windows 11 and the new design trends driven by Apple in macOS 26 under the name Liquid glass, the community has seen renewed interest in translucent glass and blur effects, looking for ways to replicate them in a modern setting. This guide reveals, in detail, how you can give your Windows 11 PC a sleek and modern look using the DWMBlurGlass app., achieving that striking and modern "glass" finish that has become fashionable again both on macOS and among Windows customization enthusiasts.
We'll explore in depth what Liquid Glass design is, the differences and similarities with Aero Glass, how the engineering behind the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) has made this visual revolution possible, and, above all, we'll guide you step by step to install and get the most out of DWMBlurGlass, the open-source tool that's setting the trend among digital tuning enthusiasts. You will discover all the details, recommendations and Tricks documents to enjoy a unique and cutting-edge experience on your Windows desktop.
Why is the Liquid Glass effect back in fashion?
The translucent glass-effect design returned with a vengeance after the presentation of macOS 26, whose visual language Liquid glass It surprised the industry and reminded many Windows users of the sensations experienced with the legendary Aero Glass from Vista and 7. These effects provide an aesthetic layer that conveys modernity, depth and a premium touch that, for years, disappeared from the Windows environment in favor of proposals such as Acrylic or Mica.
Apple revolutionized its interface Showing how the "glass" effect can be elegantly integrated into the operating system, meanwhile, in Windows 11, although new visual effects have been incorporated, the most nostalgic and demanding users are looking to go a step further. The goal is to recover and improve the classic blur and transparency effects, achieving a customization that combines performance and a striking visual appearance.
This boom has motivated the community to create custom solutions like DWMBlurGlass, which, by leveraging the system's internal structure, allows for the return of that "liquid" feel to the Windows 11 graphical interface, all in a way that is simple and, most importantly, safe for the average user.
The Evolution of Windows Design: From Aero Glass to Liquid Glass
The path of design in Windows has been marked by iconic phasesWith the arrival of Windows Vista in 2006, Microsoft launched Aero Glass, a visual revolution based on blurred backgrounds, transparencies, and brightness that gave windows an almost futuristic finish for the time. However, with the advancement of new versions, the company opted to simplify the interface, eliminating the classic glass in favor of less aggressive effects like Acrylic (present in Windows 10) or Mica (in Windows 11).
Although Mica offers transparency and blurring details, The sense of depth and luxury of Aero Glass was lost, leaving many users yearning for a more "handcrafted" and vibrant visual experience. Therefore, the appearance of the Liquid Glass design in macOS 26, so similar to what Aero Glass offered, has triggered the Windows community to look for alternatives and tools capable of bringing that magic back to their desktops.
It is in this context that the open-source DWMBlurGlass project takes center stage, allowing users to break the limitations of the official Windows 11 interface and recover, and even improve, the legendary glass effect so in demand today.
What is DWMBlurGlass and how does it work?
DWMBlurGlass is a Free and open source tool designed to modify the operation of the Desktop Window Manager (DWM), the component responsible for managing visual effects and window composition in Windows. Initially created by developer Maplespe and available on GitHub, this application allows you to inject custom blur effects and transparencies, replicating the Liquid Glass look (similar to Aero Glass) in Windows 11 and also in Windows 10.
The great success of DWMBlurGlass lies in its ability to go beyond the limitations imposed by Microsoft, offering advanced customization and control options over blur, opacity, and effect type. It leverages internal DWM calls and reverse engineering techniques, all within a secure, lightweight environment compatible with most current operating system editions.
Thanks to this software, you can transform the appearance of classic applications such as Windows Explorer, Paint, Control Panel, Notepad or even Windows itself. Task Manager, giving them the iconic crystal finish. On the other hand, Some modern apps like Microsoft Store or Calculator maintain the Mica style, so the effect will not be universal in all cases, but the result is still impressive especially in dark mode.
Advantages and precautions when using DWMBlurGlass on Windows 11
Opting for DWMBlurGlass to restore the Liquid Glass effect in Windows 11 has multiple advantages.:
- Full Control on the type of blur, opacity and visual finish.
- Allows you to choose between modes such as CustomBlur y Aero, adapting to different styles and needs.
- Simple interface and constant updates thanks to its open-source community.
- Low load on system resources, maintaining performance.
However, it is essential to take into account certain risksAlthough the application is generally secure, there may be incompatibilities with specific versions of Windows, especially if recent system updates alter DWM's functionality. If you experience problems, simply end the process from the Task Manager and delete the application folder. Additionally, any modifications to the visual layout may stop working properly after major system updates, although the open-source nature of the application usually allows for quick fixes from the community.
Detailed guide to installing and configuring DWMBlurGlass
If you want your Windows 11 to look like the brand new macOS 26 or revive the spirit of Aero Glass, follow these steps to easily install and configure DWMBlurGlass in Spanish:
- Download DWMBlurGlass from its GitHub repository. Always check for the latest version and download the ZIP file from the "releases" section.
- Extract the ZIP file by right-clicking and selecting the corresponding option (“Extract all…”).
- Move the unzipped folder to a permanent location, preferably within the "Program Files" folder on your main drive. This makes it easier to access and avoids permission issues.
- Access the “Release” subfolder within the main DWMBlurGlass directory.
- Run the file "DWMBlurGlass.exe" by double-clicking. In some cases, the system may display a warning; confirm that you want to run the file.
- When you open the app, Click the "Install" button to start the automatic installation of the necessary resources. If errors appear or the changes are not applied, go to the "Symbol" tab and click "Download" to download the files. Symbols from Microsoft servers. This is critical to ensure compatibility with your specific version of Windows.
- Explore the “Advanced” and “Blur Methods” tabs where you'll find multiple customization options. The most recommended is "CustomBlur," which replicates the classic Aero Glass effect and adds additional controls over blur and intensity.
- Select the Aero mode If you're looking for a pure Windows Vista style, perfect for those who want maximum fidelity to the original design. This mode allows even greater control over which windows receive the effect and how the blur is distributed.
- Confirm the changes by clicking “Save” in the main application window. Watch selected windows instantly acquire the Liquid Glass effect.
- If you don't see immediate changes, make sure the symbols are downloaded correctly (a green check mark should appear in the Symbol tab).
Additionally, it is advisable to restart the system or close and reopen key applications for the effect to be applied correctly.
Which applications and windows benefit from the Liquid Glass effect?
Not all Windows applications react the same to the effects of DWMBlurGlass.After testing the tool, we found that the "glass" effect works especially well in classic programs and system windows such as:
- File Browser
- Classic Paint
- Control panel
- Task Manager
- Memo pad
Other modern apps, such as the Microsoft Store or Calculator, often retain the native Windows 11 Mica style and may not display the expected changes. This is because, in some cases, modern apps use their own visual rendering engines or don't allow direct DWM intervention. Still, the overall change in the environment is remarkable., and the result is often spectacular, especially when combined with dark backgrounds or custom themes.
Additional tips and tricks for a professional finish
For those looking a perfect result without visual errorsHere are some practical tips:
- Back up your data and restore points before experimenting with DWMBlurGlass, so you can go back if you run into problems.
- Update Windows to the latest version and follow the program developer's compatibility recommendations.
- Avoid overlaying other programs that modify the visual composition of windows, such as third-party skins or overlays, as they may interfere with the operation of DWMBlurGlass.
- If the effect stops working after a major Windows update, visit the GitHub repository to download the latest version or search the community for solutions.
- For an extra touch, explore the setting of the intensity and type of blur in the “Advanced” tab, adapting the effect to your monitor, theme, and personal preferences.
Is it safe to use DWMBlurGlass on a daily basis?
El Using DWMBlurGlass is, in the vast majority of cases, safe and stable.Being open-source, the code can be reviewed for potential vulnerabilities, and if incompatibility issues arise, the application can be simply deleted without leaving any traces on the system. However, like any software that interacts with the system at a low level, it is not without risks, especially on critical production equipment or those where stability is a priority.
It is worth remembering that Microsoft could modify the behavior of the DWM in future Windows 11 updates, which could temporarily affect the functionality of DWMBlurGlass. The advantage of its active community is that they tend to release patches and hotfixes quickly, keeping the tool up-to-date for most users.
Recovering the crystal-clear effect in Windows 11 is now a reality thanks to DWMBlurGlass. Whether you're nostalgic for Aero Glass or want to show off a modern and distinctive desktop, this solution will let you take full advantage of the Liquid Glass aesthetic inspired by macOS 26. It is advisable to follow the steps and recommendations above to the letter to enjoy spectacular and secure customization., while still being able to revert changes if necessary. Now, Windows customization takes a leap forward, integrating the best of both worlds and providing a truly premium visual experience for everyone.
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