As most of you know, Windows Vista’s beta software expires around June. Since, there were quite a few bugs and other problems with the beta, I restored my laptop back to Windows XP. When you see the screen shots, don’t expect the XP interface (The green button and blue taskbar). You’ll still be seeing Windows Xp, but with a Vista skin and the Google Sidebar.

This is a guide to bring the Vista Interface to your Windows Xp PC. First of all, this involves changing your computer’s system files, so if you aren’t comfortable to do this, then consider a software called Windowblinds (It costs some money but there is a trial version). Then you can find skins at http://www.wincustomize.com.

There are two ways to achieve the look. You can install the Windows Transformation Pack at http://www.windowsxlive.net/?p=361. This will install the whole Windows Vista style. Be warned, you may not get the results you want. Also, you’ll want to make a backup (or at least a System Restore Point) just in case something bad happens.

The other way is a little more manual. You can search for skins (I use deviantart.com and then searched for Windows Vista. I used the skin from the Windows Vista Inspirat Pack RC1.) online and apply them. You’ll also need a uxtheme.dll patch which you can get here: http://www.softpedia.com/progDownload/UXTheme-MultiPatcher-Download-2369.html. The patch will enable you to use third-party skins.

Next, you will need to copy the files to the Windows Directory: (Your Drive):
\Resources\Themes. Then go to Display Properties (Right click on desktop then properties), and apply the theme. If it isn’t there, manually apply it by double clicking the theme file in the Theme’s folder. Now you pc should look like Vista, except for the start button, it is cut off. That’s why there is the handy tool in the pack known as VistaStart, which makes the orb full, if it isn’t placed right, move it! Feel free to try other skins on the internet and the other features in the Windows Vista Inspirat Pack.

Also, you might want to install a sidebar there is one in the Inspirat Pack but you can also use Google Desktop (In Screenshot) or the Desktop Sidebar. Enjoy your new *Windows Vista PC*!

NOTE: I’m not responsible for any damage caused by this procedure. Do this at your own risk!