Disable New Program Highlighting in Windows - Quick Tip

Removing New Program Highlights in Windows

A potentially unwelcome feature in Windows is the highlighting of recently installed applications. This functionality is activated by default in Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7. This article details how to deactivate this highlighting across all three operating system versions.

Consider the example shown; the visual emphasis placed on recently installed programs can be considered distracting by some users.

Disabling the Feature in Vista & Windows 7

To remove the highlighting in Vista and Windows 7, begin by right-clicking on the Start Menu. From the context menu, select “Properties.”

The “Taskbar and Start Menu Properties” window will appear. Navigate to and click the “Customize” button.

Within the “Customize Start Menu” screen, scroll down the list of options. Locate the setting labeled “Highlight newly installed programs” and uncheck the corresponding box. Then, click “Ok” to save your changes.

The process is now complete! You will no longer see the unwanted highlighting of new programs within the Start menu.

Disabling the Feature in Windows XP

The same adjustment can be made in Windows XP, following a similar procedure. Right-click on the “Start” button and select “Properties.”

Ensure the “Start Menu” tab is selected, then click the “Customize” button.

Next, click on the “Advanced” tab. Uncheck the option “Highlight newly installed programs.” Click “Ok” to confirm, and then close any remaining open windows.

For novice computer users, disabling this feature may not be advisable. The highlighting can be a useful visual aid for differentiating between older and newer applications. However, if the highlighting is found to be bothersome, it can be easily disabled for a more streamlined Start menu experience.