Hackbgrt151 May 2026
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.
HackBGRT is a Windows boot logo changer for UEFI systems. Most modern computers display a manufacturer logo (like Dell, HP, or Lenovo) during boot; this tool allows you to replace that logo with any custom image. Step-by-Step Guide (General)
If you are looking to use this tool, follow these general steps based on the official Metabolix HackBGRT documentation: Prerequisites:
System Type: Your PC must use UEFI boot mode (not Legacy/BIOS) and a GPT partition style. hackbgrt151
Secure Boot: You typically need to Disable Secure Boot in your BIOS settings, though newer versions (like v2.5+) may support it via a "shim" bootloader.
BitLocker: It is highly recommended to disable BitLocker before installation to avoid system lockouts. Installation:
Download the latest release from the Metabolix GitHub Releases page. Extract the ZIP file and run setup.exe as an administrator. Follow the command prompt instructions: Press "I" to begin the installation.
A Paint window will open with a placeholder image. Paste your custom logo here.
Image Format: Use a 24-bit BMP image (usually named splash.bmp). Applying the Change: Save and close the Paint window. For the tinkerer, the themer, and the privacy-conscious
The installer will finish the configuration. Restart your computer to see the new logo. Risk Warning HackBGRT - Windows boot logo changer for UEFI systems
Myth: “It can permanently brick your motherboard.” Fact: HackBGRT151 only modifies UEFI NVRAM variables, not the firmware SPI flash. A simple CMOS reset restores defaults.
Myth: “It stops working after every Windows update.” Fact: The 151 patch uses a persistence hook that survives updates. Only major version upgrades (e.g., 22H2 to 24H2) may require re-running the tool.
Myth: “It violates the Windows license agreement.” Fact: Modifying the boot logo is not a license violation; it’s a user customization. However, Microsoft doesn’t provide support for systems using it.
As of 2025, Microsoft has hardened BGRT protections in Windows 11 24H2 (Build 26000+). HackBGRT151 does not work on these builds due to new Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI) checks. The developer is working on “HackBGRTnext,” but for now, stay on 23H2 or older for boot screen customization. This article is for educational purposes only
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+).
Yes, if:
No, if:
In the world of Windows customization, few tweaks are as visually striking—or as technically intimidating—as changing the boot screen (the glowing Windows logo that appears when your PC starts). For years, modifying this screen required deep system file modifications, patching bootres.dll, or disabling Secure Boot. Enter HackBGRT151.
HackBGRT151 is a specific version of the popular open-source tool HackBGRT (Hack Boot Graphics Resource Table), designed to work seamlessly with Windows 10 and Windows 11 builds up to version 21H2 (Build 22000). The "151" suffix refers to a stability update and compatibility patch that addresses issues with newer UEFI firmware and Windows updates.
Unlike generic logo changers, HackBGRT151 injects a custom image directly into the UEFI firmware’s boot graphics table, allowing for a persistent, high-resolution boot logo that survives major OS upgrades and BIOS resets.
