Fixing Broken Taskbar After a Custom Theme Error
I once tried customizing my Windows 11 desktop by applying a third-party theme. After installation, the theme didn’t apply properly, and instead, it broke the taskbar and start menu functionality. Icons disappeared, and the system became unresponsive.
Solution:
Here’s how I resolved it:
Reverted to default theme: I opened Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), started a new task (control), and switched back to the default Windows theme in the Personalization settings.
Uninstalled the theme patcher: I removed the third-party theme software via Control Panel > Programs and Features.
Repaired system files: I ran sfc /scannow in Command Prompt as an administrator to fix any corrupted files caused by the theme patcher.
After restarting, my desktop returned to normal. I now stick to Microsoft-supported themes to avoid similar issues.