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How to transform Windows XP into Windows Vista

Elena Santos

Elena Santos

  • Updated:

transform Windows XP in Windows VistaIf you’d like to have the Vista look on your computer, there are two main options: either you buy Microsoft’s latest Windows version and go through the usual pain of migrating to a new operating system, or you use a Vista theme. The latter is probably the best choice for those who are not particularly interested in having Vista, but rather in taking advantage of its visually appealing interface.

After trying a few Vista themes, I came up with Vistamizer as my favorite one. It’s very easy to install and also fairly complete, meaning it includes not only graphic material but also a few software tools that resemble the most popular Vista functionalities, such as the sidebar, the Aero transparency effect or the toolbar thumbnails. In case you’ve decided to give it a go, here’s a basic how-to.

Download Vistamizer and launch the file. After a few windows (including the EULA among other stuff) you’ll be asked whether you want a “normal installation” or a “Vistamized Windows ISO”. Simply select the first option.

Now here comes the best part. It’s time for you to decide which elements you want to install and which not. The installer includes a short explanation about each item but unfortunately it’s in German, so I’ll try to shed some light on it:

transform Windows XP in Windows Vista

  1. SysRestorePoint: this option creates a system restoration point. It should be checked in all circumstances, just in case something goes terribly wrong.
  2. Files: Edits data from Windows native apps, games, Windows system files and also the login and logout screens.
  3. Other: This option dds all the graphical eyecandy, such as icons, cursors, fonts, screensaver, sounds and the likes.
  4. Apps: Lets you choose which apps you want to install to emulate some of Vista’s functionality. They’ll make your PC look really exactly like Vista, but be aware that they’ll also use up loads of system resources.
  5. Links: Adds Vista shortcuts.

Once you’ve made your selection, click on Next and Vistamizer will start its job. When the installation is finished you’ll be asked to reboot the system, only to find a beautiful Vista welcome screen when your computer runs again. Also, remember that if you ever grow tired of your visual them, you can easily uninstall it from the Control Panel. Thanks to the restoration point you’ll be back to your good ol’ Windows XP in no time.

Oh, and if you’re looking for more Vista themes, check out Nicks post about the top 5 Vista themes for XP.

Elena Santos

Elena Santos

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