Head to the:

1. Control Panel's
2. Performance Information
3. Tools
4. Adjust Visual Effects

Here you'll find a long list of effects, but simply choosing "Adjust for best performance" will turn everything off.

To resolve this issue:

Head to the:

1. Control Panel's
2. Performance Information
3. Tools
4. Adjust Visual Effects

Choose: "Adjust for best appearance"

... problem solved