Customize your Windows XP Visual Theme Styles
Windows XP does not allow the use of custom themes, which leaves you with the three color variations of the WindowsXP style and the endless colors of the good old Windows Classic style.
In order to install third party (non-Microsoft) themes, you will first need to patch the UXtheme.dll file. If you do not do this, and try to install a custom theme, the result is not pretty. You end up with a theme that looks like windows 3.1 or one that you would get in super safe mode. While installing the patch Windows will try and convince you to insert your Windows Setup disc — just ignore this. Once you have installed the patch you will need to restart your computer before you can use any new themes.
Note: If you ever want to revert back to the original UXtheme.dll file, simply re-run the Uxtheme Multi-patcher and it will be set back to normal.
Once you have installed the patch and have rebooted your computer, you are ready to change your theme. Where do I find custom themes? Great Question! If you are interested in the theme shown in this tutorial, you can find it here. You can find other visual theme styles here.
If you have any questions, post them in the comments section.
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16 Mar 2009 Catholic Tech Tips
