HackBGRT version 1.5.1 is a legacy tool for users looking to customize the UEFI boot logo on Windows systems, though it has since been superseded by more robust versions like HackBGRT 2.0+ . The Good: Simple and Creative Customization : It effectively bypasses the difficult-to-change vendor logos stored in UEFI firmware by using a custom UEFI application to overwrite the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT) . Lightweight : The tool is highly specialized and doesn't require heavy background processes; it simply replaces the boot logo during the startup sequence. Compatibility : Users have reported success using it on various versions of Windows, including Windows 11 , provided manual steps like assigning a drive letter to the EFI partition are followed. The Bad: Risks and Technical Hurdles Installation Friction : Version 1.5.1 sometimes struggles to automatically assign a letter to the EFI partition, requiring users to use Diskpart or manual command-line configurations. Potential for Boot Issues : Because it replaces the Windows boot loader ( bootmgfw.efi ), incorrect configuration can lead to a system that won't boot without a repair disk. Secure Boot/TPM Conflicts : It often requires disabling Secure Boot or special handling for TPM, which can lower system security. Outdated Image Handling : Unlike newer versions, 1.5.1 has stricter requirements for image formats and sizes, often requiring manual conversion to specific BMP formats. Verdict : While version 1.5.1 is a classic for hobbyists, it is recommended to use the latest releases on GitHub for better stability, automated image conversion, and support for Secure Boot via shim. HackBGRT - Windows boot logo changer for UEFI systems
"hackbgrt151" refers to version 1.5.1 of HackBGRT , an open-source utility designed to change the Windows boot logo on UEFI-based systems. Product Summary Purpose : Replaces the default manufacturer (OEM) logo with a custom 24-bit BMP image by modifying the Boot Graphics Resource Table (BGRT) in the UEFI firmware. System Requirements : UEFI-based Windows systems. Secure Boot must typically be disabled (though later versions include a "shim" for better compatibility). BitLocker should be handled with caution as boot modifications can trigger recovery prompts. Key Features of Version 1.5.1 Based on documentation for version 1.5.1: Customization : Allows users to set a custom bitmap image and adjust its position (x, y coordinates) on the screen. Setup Utility : Includes a setup.exe that facilitates the installation of the EFI binary to the EFI System Partition (ESP) . Troubleshooting Logs : Generates a setup-log.txt to help users diagnose issues if the custom logo fails to appear during the boot sequence. Critical Usage Warnings Boot Failure Risk : Improper installation or configuration can make the system unbootable. It is highly recommended to create a rescue disk before use. Secure Boot : If Secure Boot is active, the system may report a "Security Violation" unless the HackBGRT hash is enrolled via a tool like MOKManager . Limited Scope : It only changes the vendor logo; it does not alter Windows-specific loading animations or spinners. shim.md - Metabolix/HackBGRT - GitHub
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 : 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 —
HackBGRT151: The Ultimate Guide to Customizing Your Windows Boot Screen Introduction: What is HackBGRT151? 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. hackbgrt151
How HackBGRT151 Works: A Technical Deep Dive To understand why HackBGRT151 is special, you first need to understand the boot process:
UEFI Initialization → Firmware loads basic drivers. Boot Manager ( bootmgfw.efi ) → Displays the default Windows logo from a resource table. Kernel Loading → Logo persists until the login screen.
Windows stores its boot logo as a compressed .bmp file inside a firmware table called the BGRT (Boot Graphics Resource Table) . By default, this table is read-only and signed by Microsoft. HackBGRT151 works by: HackBGRT version 1
Temporarily disabling Secure Boot (or leveraging a signed shim). Extracting the existing BGRT. Replacing the bitmap data with your custom image. Recalculating checksums and re-injecting the table into UEFI NVRAM.
The “151” patch specifically fixes a race condition that caused black screens on systems with Intel Iris Xe graphics and AMD Ryzen 5000-series APUs.
Why Use HackBGRT151? Key Benefits | Feature | Default Windows | HackBGRT151 | |---------|----------------|--------------| | Custom Logo | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Any 24-bit BMP | | High DPI Support | ❌ Stretched/low-res | ✅ Native resolution (up to 4K) | | Persistence | ❌ Lost after updates | ✅ Survives feature updates | | Multi-OS Support | ❌ Windows only | ✅ Works with Linux/dual boot | | Secure Boot Compatible | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Requires temporary disable | Ideal for: Enthusiasts, system integrators, retro PC builders, and anyone tired of the default blue Windows logo. Compatibility : Users have reported success using it
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install and Use HackBGRT151 Prerequisites
Windows 10 (v1903+) or Windows 11 (up to 22H2, with caution). UEFI firmware (not legacy BIOS). Administrative privileges. A backup of important data (always recommended).