Remember when your computer screen would display funny animations, making mundane tasks fun? The 1990s classic After Dark floating Toasters screensaver turned idle screens into a whimsical bakery of floating bread.
This lovely screensaver inspired desktop personalization creativity and inventiveness. As technology has advanced, nostalgia for that lighter charm has grown, causing people to find ways to bring it back. If you want a taste of retro magic, you can download this beloved screensaver on Windows and watch those toasters soar again.
History of After Dark Flying Toasters
Berkeley Systems’ 1989 After Dark screensavers solved screen burn-in on older monitors with a creative approach. The original version’s basic animations and whimsical motifs won over early ’90s computer users.
With the 1993 release of the ‘Flying Toasters’ screensaver, the software gained popularity and became a cultural symbol, capturing After Dark’s whimsical character.
Software evolved over time, adding intricate graphics and various themes. After Dark was abandoned in the late 1990s as technology and operating systems advanced, ending an era for screensaver fans.
Compatible with Modern Window Versions
Windows 10 and 11 also have better support for older apps, so you can be sure everything will just work. As developers fine-tune software for newer operating environments, compatibility is taking on greater importance.
Windows has built-in compatibility options that allow users with legacy software to run apps in compatibility mode for previous versions.
Download ADFT Screensaver for Windows
Though Berkeley Systems no longer produces or supports After Dark, the Flying Toasters screensaver has remained popular among fans who have kept it alive through various means. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to download and install the Flying Toasters screensaver on a modern Windows PC.
Download the file: You will see a download link above; just click on it and download the Screensaver zip file. These files are usually in .exe or .scr format. Some versions may come in a .zip file, which you’ll need to extract before proceeding.
Run the Installer or Copy the Screensaver File: If you downloaded a .exe file, follow the on-screen instructions to install the screensaver. For .scr files, copy the file to the following directory: C:\Windows\System32\. This will allow you to select the screensaver in the Windows settings.
Enable the Screensaver:
- Open Settings and go to Personalization.
- Click on Lock screen and scroll down to Screen saver settings.
- From the drop-down menu, select Flying Toasters or whatever name the screensaver appears under.
- Adjust any additional settings as desired and hit Apply to confirm.
Test the Screensaver: Once you’ve installed and selected the screensaver, you can preview it to make sure it works as expected. If everything looks good, your Flying Toasters screensaver is ready to use.
Finally, downloading and installing the After Dark Flying Toasters screensaver does more than protect your screen. This renowned screensaver recalls the thrill of early personal computers with its charming animations and customizable features.