Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Windows XP Visual Styles
Windows Visual Styles for Windows XP can change the way you work with your computer, providing a richer, more full-bodied, user experience without any aftertaste at all.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Windows XP Visual Styles. If you have a general question that isn't answered here, please email it to us through the 'contact' link at the bottom of the page.
1. What software do I need in order to use Visual Styles on Windows XP?
2. I only see "Windows XP Style" and "Windows Classic Style" for my Visual Styles. What's wrong?
3. How do I install a Visual Style for Windows XP?
4. Won't Visual Styles make my system unstable or even unbootable?
5. How do I create my own Visual Styles for Windows XP?
6. Where can I learn more about theming and discuss this topic with other themers?
What software do I need in order to use Visual Styles on Windows XP?
Microsoft does not allow non-signed (ie, non-Microsoft) visual styles to work on your computer. The kind folks at NeoWin.com have developed a patch program for all versions of Windows XP. You can download the patch from our Software page. Specifically, via this patch, the UXTHEME.DLL file is altered to enable non-signed themes. This patch is 100% safe and has been under constant development for a long time.
As an alternate solution, you could use TGTSoft's Style XP shareware which uses an in-memory program to allow / circumvent Microsoft's restrictions (thanks, Bill). Style XP is shareware and costs $19.95.
I only see "Windows XP Style" and "Windows Classic Style" for my Visual Styles. What's wrong?
You have not yet successfully patched the UXTHEME.DLL file in order to allow non-signed Visual Styles to be displayed. Oddly enough, Microsoft chose to recognize unsigned Visual Styles as a security breach, and therefore chose not to allow them. Since only Microsoft certified themes are recognized by unpatched Windows XP, these are the only themes you see. Please apply the patch as described in Question #1 and restart your computer. Then any styles you have installed already should show up on the list.
How do I install a Visual Style for Windows XP?
Windows XP Visual Styles reside in a specific place on your computer. Normally your boot device should be Drive C: and your Windows XP installation directory should be "\Windows". If this is the case, your Visual Styles should be uncompressed and copied into the "C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\" folder. Be sure to make a separate folder for your style. The style's file name should be identical to the name of the folder it is in. For example, to install the OSXP visual style, uncompress the files into the "C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\OSXP" folder and make sure your visual style file is called "OSXP.msstyles". Other associated files and folders may also be found in the visual style's folder. These files are part of the style. Occasionally there will only be the single "{theme}.msstyles" file in the visual style's folder.
Won't Visual Styles make my system unstable or even unbootable?
The patch needed to use visual styles is definitely a change to one of your system files. This file change is required to use visual styles. However, this will not make your system unstable or unbootable. Picture it this way, while a mechanic has worked on your new Honda Accord, the work that he did was to replace the tail light bulb which had burned out. Replacing that bulb will not cause your car to not start nor to act unstable.
This patch is a similar change to a very insignificant (functioning wise) part of the operating system. The patch can be reapplied even to restore your Windows XP operating system to its former (unglorious) self. Try that with a burned out tail light bulb!
How do I create my own Visual Styles for Windows XP?
Designing your own Visual Styles for Windows XP will require software. The premier design tool is from TGTSoft and is called Style Builder. This software will allow you to create a new theme from scratch or from any existing theme. Save your designs and enjoy them on your own computer. Beware, however, of using the work of other designers in your theme if you plan to share that theme with others. Many designers will not allow there work to be redistributed, and certainly not without their permission. Always check with the theme's original author(s) if you plan on sharing your theme.
Where can I learn more about theming and discuss this topic with other themers?
NeoWin has some of the best theming forums available. Forum regulars and visitors range from complete beginners to masters of the craft. The forums are moderated well and most people will respond quickly, patiently, and thoroughly to any questions asked. Follow normal forum "ettiquete" and any of your questions can be answered. To visit the forums, click on the NeoWin link above, then click on the "Enter the Forums" link on the menu on the right hand side of the page. Some of the best visual styles and designers can be found in the "Completed Visual Styles" section of "Customizing Windows XP".
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