Hackbgrt151 -
For the tinkerer, the themer, and the privacy-conscious (who dislike Microsoft branding), HackBGRT151 delivers what Microsoft refuses to allow: total control over the boot experience. While its days may be numbered on the latest Windows builds, it remains a masterpiece of UEFI reverse engineering. Use it wisely, back up your data, and enjoy a boot screen that’s truly yours.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Docked half a star due to Secure Boot limitation and lack of 24H2 support.
This article is for educational purposes only. Modifying firmware settings carries inherent risk. Always back up your data and consult your hardware manufacturer’s documentation.
is a utility designed to replace the standard Windows boot logo with a custom image on UEFI-based systems. It functions by modifying the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT) in the system’s EFI partition. Core Functionality
: Overrides the default OEM or Windows logo during the boot process. System Requirements : Requires a UEFI-based firmware (Legacy BIOS is not supported). Security Requirements Secure Boot
must generally be disabled for HackBGRT to function, as it modifies the bootloader path. Installation & Configuration Aug 27, 2563 BE —
HackBGRT is an open-source UEFI utility designed to change the default boot logo on Windows systems. Version 1.5.1 (released around August 2018) is a stable iteration that introduced specific reliability fixes and configuration improvements over previous builds. Key Features of HackBGRT 1.5.1
UEFI Logo Overwriting: Unlike older tools that modified system files, HackBGRT works by creating a custom UEFI application that overwrites the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT) in memory during boot.
Reboot to UEFI Support: This version includes a fix for booting directly into the UEFI setup (BIOS) menu from the tool's interface. Flexible Image Handling:
Custom Formats: While the core requires a 24-bit BMP file, the setup tool can automatically convert other formats (PNG, JPG) during installation.
Randomization: You can configure multiple images in the config.txt file, and the tool will pick one at random for each boot.
Coordinates: Allows for custom X/Y positioning of the logo on the screen.
Improved Installer: The setup.exe includes better error reporting and a "dry-run" mode to test configurations without applying changes to the EFI system partition.
Security Integration: Supports modern systems through "shim" integration, allowing it to function even with Secure Boot enabled, provided the user enrolls the necessary hash in the MOK (Machine Owner Key) manager. Configuration and Usage
The behavior of the tool is controlled via a config.txt file located in the EFI partition. Standard options include: How to Change The Boot Logo in Windows.
HackBGRT: Personalise Your Windows Boot Screen HackBGRT is a popular open-source utility designed to let users replace the default Windows boot logo with a custom image. Unlike many system tweaks, HackBGRT works by modifying the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT)
in UEFI-based systems, offering a cleaner way to personalise your PC's startup. Key Features of HackBGRT UEFI Support hackbgrt151
: Specifically designed for modern computers using UEFI firmware. Simple Customisation
: Allows you to use any image, typically as a 24-bit BMP file named splash.bmp Reversible Changes
: You can easily restore the original boot logo by running the setup file and choosing the "remove" option. Lightweight
: It operates as a tiny EFI application that loads before Windows. Prerequisites for Installation
Before using HackBGRT, ensure your system meets the following requirements: How to Change Windows 10's Boot Logo! (HackBGRT Tutorial) 26 Aug 2020 —
is a specialized, open-source utility designed for UEFI-based Windows systems that allows users to replace the default startup logo (the Windows flag) with a custom image. Overview & Utility The tool operates by modifying the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT)
, a standard UEFI feature that Windows uses to display a manufacturer or OS logo during boot. It is widely considered the "go-to" recommendation for users who want to personalize their boot experience on modern hardware. Key Features Custom Branding:
Enables the use of any custom BMP or PNG image as the boot logo. Integrated Setup:
The installer automatically launches MS Paint to allow for immediate image editing and alignment during the installation process. Automatic EFI Handling:
It simplifies the process of mounting and modifying the EFI System Partition, which is typically hidden from users. Critical Considerations Secure Boot Conflict: By default, HackBGRT requires Secure Boot to be disabled
because the custom EFI binary it uses is not signed by Microsoft. Advanced users can circumvent this by signing the binary with their own keys, though this is a complex and risky process. Risk Profile:
Modifying the bootloader carries an inherent risk. If the EFI partition is improperly handled or if there are multiple bootable drives, the automatic setup may fail. Compatibility:
While highly effective for UEFI systems, it does not support legacy BIOS installations. Some users have reported issues with specific hardware, such as HP laptops, where the system resists changes to the boot order. User Experience Pros & Cons
One of the few reliable ways to change the boot logo on Windows 10 and 11. Completely free and open-source via
Includes a straightforward "uninstall" option to restore the original logo. Lacks a "silent install" option for enterprise deployment.
Visual bugs can occur, such as the original logo flashing for a second before the custom one appears, often due to firmware limitations. step-by-step guide For the tinkerer, the themer, and the privacy-conscious
on how to safely install HackBGRT on your specific version of Windows?
HackBGRT - Windows boot logo changer for UEFI systems - GitHub
How to Personalize Your PC with HackBGRT If you’ve ever wanted to swap the standard Windows logo or your laptop manufacturer's splash screen for something more personal, you’ve likely come across HackBGRT. This specialized tool is a popular choice for users looking to customize the boot experience on UEFI-based Windows systems. What is HackBGRT?
HackBGRT is a third-party utility designed to change the Windows boot logo. When a UEFI computer starts, it often displays a vendor-defined logo stored in the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT). Because this image is normally difficult to change permanently, HackBGRT works as a custom UEFI application that overwrites the logo during the boot process. Key Prerequisites
Before you start, ensure your system meets these requirements:
UEFI System: HackBGRT only works on UEFI-based systems, not legacy BIOS.
Secure Boot Disabled: For the tool to function, you typically must disable Secure Boot in your BIOS/UEFI settings.
Backup Ready: Modifying boot files carries risks. It is strongly recommended to create a rescue disk or system backup before proceeding. How to Use HackBGRT
The installation process is relatively straightforward but requires careful attention to detail:
Download and Extract: Obtain the latest version of HackBGRT from GitHub and extract the files.
Run Setup: Open setup.exe as an administrator. In the command prompt window, type "I" to begin the installation. Prepare Your Image:
The tool will automatically open a configuration file in Notepad (which you can usually close) and then open MS Paint with a default splash image.
Create or import your custom logo. It must be saved as a 24-bit BMP file named splash.bmp.
Pro Tip: Match your image size to your screen resolution (e.g., 1920x1080) and use a black background for a seamless look.
Save and Finish: Save your image in Paint and close the application. The command prompt should confirm that HackBGRT is installed. Restart: Reboot your PC to see your new custom boot logo. Important Risks and Considerations
While HackBGRT is a powerful customization tool, it interacts with sensitive boot components: This article is for educational purposes only
TPM and Security: Using HackBGRT can interfere with TPM-related features, potentially affecting BitLocker encryption, anti-cheat software, or Windows PIN logins.
Boot Failures: If not installed correctly, your system may become unbootable. If this happens, you may need to use a rescue disk to restore the Windows bootloader.
Restoring Defaults: To go back to the original logo, run setup.exe again and type "R" to uninstall the tool and restore your original boot files.
For more advanced troubleshooting or multi-boot instructions, you can consult the official HackBGRT README.
Note: You can re-enable Secure Boot after installation, but some users report the custom logo failing if the firmware re-validates the BGRT. Most keep it disabled for reliability.
Before diving into the technical steps, it’s worth understanding why thousands of users search for this tool every month:
HackBGRT151 does not support GIFs or video. The UEFI boot environment only displays a static bitmap. However, some users create multi-layered BMPs with text like "Loading..." to mimic animation.
With the move to systemd-boot and UKIs (Unified Kernel Images), the BGRT approach becomes less relevant. Newer systems may use the Framebuffer Boot Logo (FB logo) or EFI Boot Splash protocols. However, hackbgrt remains the only low-level method to replace the very first logo displayed on a UEFI system.
Version 151 is stable, but no active development exists since 2022. Use the -git version for newer kernels (6.x+).
If you want maximum security:
Cause: Incorrect BMP format or resolution. Fix: Boot into WinRE (force shutdown 3 times). From command prompt, run:
bcdedit /set globalsettings highestmode on
Then delete C:\Windows\System32\BGRT.bmp and run setup.exe /revert.
To understand HackBGRT151, you need to know a bit about the UEFI Boot Manager. Modern Windows uses a file called bootmgfw.efi to start the OS. This executable contains a bitmap resource—the boot logo. The original HackBGRT worked by patching this EFI executable.
HackBGRT151 improves upon this by:
Crucially, HackBGRT151 does not modify your Windows kernel or system files beyond the boot environment. This makes it safer than many other customization tools.