Windows Aero is the graphical design of Windows Vista and Windows 7.
It’s a glass-like effect applied to windows (and taskbar in Windows 7). Not all releases of these key versions include Windows Aero, such as the Basic and Starter editions.
The Aero glass transparency, applied to the taskbar, Welcome Center, and Start menu in Windows Vista.
Aero Test in Windows 7.
Bugs
Sometimes, Windows Aero can cause performance problems and make the computer run very slowly. You can keep this from happening by turning off Windows Aero. Here’s how to do it:
- Right-click on the desktop and click “Personalize”.
- Scroll down and click “Windows 7 Basic”. It should now look like this:
- For even better performance click “Windows Classic”. It should look like this:
Features
Aero Peek
When the “Show Desktop” button is hovered over in Windows 7, Aero Peek is activated. All open windows become simple transparent squares, not losing the glass effect.
Screenshot of Aero Peek.
3D Flip
When Ctrl+Win+Tab is pressed in Windows Vista or Windows 7, Aero Flip 3D becomes active. The desktop background becomes dark, and a great view of all open windows appear.
Aero Glass
Aero Glass is the transparent effect on window title bars in Windows Vista and 7.
Aero Glass effect on Internet Explorer, with Aero Peek behind it.
Aero Snap
Aero Snap is the ability to snap and dock windows.
Current Looks
In the Windows 8 Developer Preview, Windows Aero was simplified. The Close button was now more basic, and the shape of windows were now square.
Windows Aero, as applied to the Automation Workshop in the Windows 8 Developer Preview.
Aero in the Windows 8 Consumer Preview. Notice that there’s no Start button or Show Desktop button.
Windows 8 DP running on a multi-monitor system, using Windows Aero.
Computer Central 