PLEASE ALSO READ HERE (CONTINUED FROM ABOVE) Make Xp Behave and Look Like Windows 7 (GUI + Features) (New Windows 7 Applications and Features for Xp), Make Windows XP Stay Up to date after Vista and Windows 7 Coming out... ======================================================================== (New?) CHANGE HIBERNATE SCREEN IN WINDOWS XP: Btw, added this one: If you want to change default XP Hibernate screen, just edit and compress 5th bitmap in ntoskrnl.exe file (in C:\Windows\System32) using 16 Colors by Photoshop (follow many tutorials for only Bootscreen like here), must be less than 8 Kb in size. Actually it's just smaller part (215x147 pixels) of the 640x480 whole hibernate screen background (Window Flag + "Windows" text) beside there's also a hibernate progress bar 2nd bitmap). Well it changes that default Xp flag with new Vista flag on hibernate screen, yeah it's not perfect/sophisticated but still better than nothing before, at least it will look more "matching" with other Vista elements on your "modded" Xp: (It's 16 colors, so it may look rather blurry...) You can download that hibernate screen resources + little "guide/note" for XP (SP3) here: http://www.4shared.com/file/128809524/109f54de/VistaXp_Boot__Hibernate_Screens.html Do it carefully (always create backup of the original etc), Anyway good luck. ======================================================================== Btw, my other recommended links to visit: *) Since especially Windows 7 is just an enhanced version of Vista (although yea some Vista apps have been removed/disabled in Windows 7 by default i.e Meeting Space, Windows Calendar, and so on but anyway it's actually better to at least keep some of them imo...), you can use this List of Vista Applications and Features for Xp above to have most of new Vista (and also Windows 7) applications and features on Xp. After that, you can also visit and read my second thread/topic as well: "Windows 7 Applications, Tools, and Features on Xp (Simpler)" : (Very Recommended): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21246 Updated: i have copied the content of above thread/topic ("Windows 7 Applications, Tools, and Features on Xp (Simpler)") completely to this post below. Please read below and enjoy... Btw you can still visit the same link to read the possible future update on there though... - About Vista Games on Xp: http://jonnyw1989.wordpress.com/2007/01/31...-for-xp-update/ I have fixed some executables of the Vista games package to download below i.e without annoying ugly “Oct 4 2005″ on the title bar of some of these Vista games anymore: - Added: (New -> More Recommended versions of Vista Games for Xp to download) Download latest fixed version of Vista Games beta and RTM ported to Windows Xp: (Original Freecell, Mahjong/Shanghai, Solitaire, Spider Solitaire, Hearts, Purble Place, Mineweesper, Inkball etc + Texas Hold'em and Brutal Chess (Chess Titan alternative on Xp by far) + Window Journal Viewer as prerequisite for Inkball without WGA validation -> Usually not required if you already have Office Suite/Onenote 2003/2007 though + Latest Alky for Vista Applications and Games on Xp/2003 :(Btw i have removed ugly “Oct 4 2005″ on the title bar of some of these Vista games too!, "fixed" binary info from Oberon to MS etc) GUI etc: http://www.4shared.com/dir/14281223/d52c5e...mes_For_Xp.html To know that how to install/run original Vista Games RTM (Inkball and Hold'em), as well as Vista Snipping Tool, Sticky Notes which required Alky/VAIO with Vista Serial on Windows Xp etc: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19718 Windows 7 games for Xp? Lol so far the games in latest Windows 7 Beta is similar with Vista's (except the internet versions/MSN e.g Internet Backgammon, Checkers, Spades), not sure about the final version/RTM or higher. Don't worry you can also play them on Xp desktop online/offline (please read the next list of Windows 7 applications, tools, and features for Xp below... - Get Useful and Enhanced Windows 95-98 context menu file viewer: Microsoft QuickView ported to Xp!: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19748 - Get Thumbnails of more file types on Xp Explorer (included thumbnails of text and document on Windows Explorer!/Vista Live Icon in Xp): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19751 - Get original Vista Snipping Tool, Inkball, Sticky Notes, Texas Hold'Em etc ported to Xp: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19718 - Get Vista Explorer File Viewer ( Vista Explorer Preview Pane ) "ported" to Xp: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19634 * Since especially Media Center and Tablet PC are integrated nice features into Vista / Windows 7...: - Get Windows Vista/7 Media Center Skin and application on Xp: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552 - Get Tablet PC Input Panel on Xp like Vista and Windows 7: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21199 Edit: Btw this is the additional second/next list (Change Xp like Windows 7), after you already have some/most Vista applications and features installed on Xp as listed in the first list above of course (Since Windows 7 is just an enhanced/updated version of Windows Vista, please believe me you will still have to get some similar Vista enhancements for Xp as listed above)... anyway Good luck! =============================================================== - You can also visit "Vista and Windows 7 Application and Features for Xp" (Wincert) : http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=4594 =============================================================== ADDED NEW APPLICATIONS AND FEATURES FOR XP TO WINDOWS 7 TRANSFORMATION (AS THE SECOND LIST HERE): Reshacking Tutorials: Again, some must be visited tutorials if you want to manually reshack some XP system files resources (credits to Vishal Gupta and Picassa243) since some tranformation packs may not patch all files totally (i.e some unchanged embedded icons on My Computer System Properties/sysdm.cpl etc): - List of Files to be hacked using Resource Hacker: http://www.askvg.com/list-of-files-to-be-hacked-using-resource-hacker/ - List of a few Locations in Windows XP to be Hacked Using Resource Hacker: http://www.askvg.com/list-of-a-few-locations-in-windows-xp-to-be-hacked/ - A Tutorial on Vista Conversion by Picassa243: http://picassa243.deviantart.com/art/A-Tutorial-on-Vista-Conversion-60141887 1). Transformation Guides & Info about Windows Xp to Windows 7: - Vishal Gupta's Guide (Credits to him) for Xp to Windows 7: "Transform Windows Xp to Windows 7 Without Using Any Transformation Pack" (Most GUI Elements: Bootsecreen, Logon Screen, Wallpapers, Themes, etc): http://www.askvg.com/transform-windows-xp-...omization-pack/ - Kyosan's Guide (WinMatrix, Credits to him): "Make Windows Xp Look Like Seven" (Most GUI Elements: Bootsecreen, Logon Screen, Wallpapers, Themes, etc): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?...=21106&st=0 All About Windows 7 (WinMatrix Forum): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showforum=61 2). Some Windows Xp to Windows 7 Tools/Apps: - Original Windows 7 New Font for Xp/Vista (Gabriola, Again Thx and Credits to Bro Jdd/JeremyDDual, Dev): http://jeremyddual.deviantart.com/art/MS-W...riola-104351955 - Windows 7 Calculator for Xp (Credits to grdcityboy, Dev ): http://grdcityboy.deviantart.com/art/Seven...lator-102484514 Other Alternatives for Windows 7 Calculator in Xp (functional): You can also use Microsoft Powertoys -> Power Calculator : http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloa...ppowertoys.mspx or Microsoft Calculator Plus for Xp : http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en (Although they look different with original Windows 7 calculator, but have nearly similar features, and they all are from Microsoft too/with same flavors)... Or you can also use better Microsoft Math: Requires .Net Framework 2.0 or higher and (optional) Windows Journal Viewer 1.5 installed for inking feature): http://www.4shared.com/file/73827667/ad203...and_Vista_.html (much better stuff, even with inking support as a good replacement for both Windows 7 Math Input Panel and Calculator in Xp and Vista, etc). - Windows 7 Like Wordpad (with Ribbon UI) for Xp and Vista (Credits to Solo/Villain, Dev/WM): http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-like-wo...s-xp-and-vista/ - Windows 7 Aero Shake Feature: http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-aero-sh...s-xp-and-vista/ - Windows 7 Aero Shake and Peak (WinShake), credits to Freddy2, WM: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=24650 - Windows 7 Aero Snap: http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-aero-sn...s-xp-and-vista/ - Windows 7 Safe Guard feature for Xp and Vista (MS Steady State): http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-7-P...SP3-97229.shtml - Windows 7 Superbar for Xp (Credits to flawless 02, Dev): http://flawless02.deviantart.com/art/Windo...ws-XP-104538761 - Windows 7 Taskbar Replacement (AKA Superbar) for Xp (Alpha), credits to DimitarCC: http://sbar.codeplex.com/ - Windows 7 Taskbar Iconizer (Credits to Solo/Villain, Dev/WM): http://solo-dev.deviantart.com/art/Windows...nizer-102860893 - (Microsoft) Windows 7 Desktop Slideshow for Xp (Recompiled By me / Credits to MS for the original code): http://depositfiles.com/en/files/f507qk8aw - Windows 7 Themes and Desktop Changer for XP (change themes and wallpapers periodically as your custom settings): As far as i know the "old good days" Style XP can also change your themes (Visual Style/MSStyles) and wallpapers periodically (even more other elements such as boot screens, screensavers etc) if i'm not wrong. But yea you know it's a shareware though... Visit the official TGTSoft website to download/get Style XP : http://www.tgtsoft.com/ or just google it - Windows 7 (or Vista) Game Explorer Clone for XP - New & Functional at final as he said/not just "a fake UI"(credits to Monty Pillepalle - WinMatrix): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/27051-windows-7-game-explorer-for-xp/ His official website: http://wwwpub.zih.tu-dresden.de/~s8576162/programming_vb2008.php Download all latest updated Vista / Windows 7 games for XP here: http://www.4shared.com/dir/14281223/d52c5ee5/All_Vista_Games_For_Xp.html - Original Windows 7 Math Input Panel (MIP) ported to Xp and Vista (Credits to Jdd/JeremyDDual): http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=4865 http://jeremyddual.deviantart.com/art/Win-...on-xp-104354090 Or: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21199 (By me + Alternatives for MIP on both Xp and Vista etc) - Replacement for Windows 7 Paint in Xp and Vista: You can use Paint.net (Officially Powered by Microsoft and Washington State University (WSU) as replacement for standard Windows Paint in every Windows OS) as much better replacement: Download Paint. net (Requires .Net Framework 2.0 or higher): http://www.getpaint.net/download.html (New) PaintRibbon -> Windows 7 like Paint for Xp and Vista: http://aviassin.wikidot.com/paintribbon - Windows Internet Explorer 8 (Default Windows 7 Browser): http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-...ta/default.aspx - All Windows 7 Original Wallpapers (full credits to Bro Jdd): http://jeremyddual.deviantart.com/art/Wind...-pics-106034849 - All Windows 7 Original Icons (full credits to Bro Jdd again, lol U rockn roll Bro): http://jeremyddual.deviantart.com/art/Wind...0043?loggedin=1 - Windows 7 - Windows Media Player 12 Skin/resource for Xp (Full credits to fediaFedia and Bogo, thx to Jdd for the info): http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Win7-...or-XP-106429599 Credits to bogo-d http://bogo-d.deviantart.com/ and fediafedia http://fediafedia.deviantart.com - The Best Windows 7 Theme/Skin/VS for Xp: Seven VG Refresh with superbar (credits to Vishal Gupta): http://www.askvg.com/download-sevenvg-refr...for-windows-xp/ - Windows 7 Aero Peek for Xp and Vista (thx to lifehacker): http://lifehacker.com/5123338/aeropeek-put...ng-into-xpvista 3). Other Ones: Since Windows 7 (Beta) is still updated version of Vista at least for now (it still has Vista features but much more enhanced), alternatively you can still use many more replacements for Vista features and applications in Xp or Vista : - List of Most Vista Applications and Features for Xp (By me): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=20480 - Removable applications feature in Windows 7: In Windows 7 (since build 7048), you will may be able to remove any Windows application such as WMP, Media Center, even IE (Internet Explorer) which has been integrated into all Windows OS for years. Get the same and better feature using Xp Lite here (worked on 98 and 2000 too!): http://www.litepc.com/ You can also use NLite and VLite for prepare the lite installation CD. Thats all so far. Cheers! Lol sorry that's all as far i know, very/too short, just "copying n pasting" (the content and sources). Need your inputs. Thank U so much for your attention! Cheers and Long Live Xp! ==================================================== 4). Updated/Added Some Special Windows 7 Stuffs/Features to Xp (Originally from Microsoft): (Full Credits and Thanks to Blake Handler from Windows Live Space for the infos): (Btw, some of them and also other ones might already be included on the previous list or the other ones are more completely on "List of Most Vista Applications and Features for Xp", e.g Internet Explorer 8, Windows Search 4.0, XPS Viewer and Support, Windows 7 Gabriola TTF font, Windows 7 Desktop Slide Show for Xp and so on..., but might repeat them again here. You can please check it out too after reading this...as well as other related threads by people on WinMatrix). So here they are: - Clear Type Tuner: makes it easier to read text on your screen by installing ClearType technology in the Control Panel just like Windows 7. http://download.microsoft.com/download/b/7...85aad/setup.exe - Data Execution Prevention (DEP): monitors programs to verify whether they are using system memory securely. Unlike Windows 7 (and Vista), Windows XP's DEP is only enabled for necessary operating system programs and services because not all software programs run smoothly with DEP: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc700810.aspx - Windows Search 4.5: updated search component in Windows 7. Get Windows Search 4.0 on both Xp and Vista: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/default.aspx - exFAT: advanced file system format support for Windows XP as well as Windows 7: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - Fingerprint Reader - Windows 7 has advanced built-in support for biometric devices. only useful if yo own a biometric device), install Microsoft's Digital Persona Password Manager 2.0: See: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?...kb;en-us;899626 Download Fingerprint Reader tool (English): http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/5...PPM_201_ENG.exe - Image Mastering API v2.0 (IMAPIv2.0): Burn images to CD and DVD optical storage media using the new APIs (Vista too). Download the tool for Xp: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6): - Built-into Windows 7; support for this new suite of standard protocols for the Network layer of the Internet. It has come as Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - Link Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD) Responder: The network map on a computer running Windows 7 shows a graphical view of the computers and devices on your network and how they are connected by using the LLTD protocol. The LLTD responder must be installed on a computer running Windows Xp before it can be detected and appear on the network map. http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - New Xp MSCONFIG - Window XP's System Configuration Utility has been updated to add a Tools tab "just like" Windows 7 (and Vista): http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - .Net Framework 3.5/next 4.0: - Just like Windows 7 (included by default), install .Net Framework 3.5 with Service Pack 1 (Vista only included .Net Framework 3.0, so it's recommended to install it on Vista too): http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Windows PowerShell (V2) command-line shell & scripting language allows managing computers via commands or scripts, improving productivity through system automation on Windows 7. You can get it (V1.0) on Xp too: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - VHD Support: you can have the same functionality with MS Virtual PC 2007 on Xp http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Developers and Advanced/Corporate/Enterprise Users only: WIM Image Deployment for Windows 7: While Windows 7 is distributed as a WIM image file, Windows XP is not distributed as a WIM image. Tools included in the Windows Automated Installation Kit (Windows AIK) and Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008 do support creating file-based Windows XP images, but these images are not componentized in a way that allows IT pros to inject drivers (at least still better than nothing lol): See: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc749528.aspx Download Windows Automated Installation Kit (Windows AIK): http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en Download Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Windows Feature Pack for Storage 1.0: enables the Windows platform to do master style optical burning on Blu-Ray media, as well as support for new Smart Card Driver form factors, such as ICCD. http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - Windows Live Applications : Windows 7 can run faster than Vista since it has removed some "bloatwares" there such as some programs (Calendar, PhotoGalllery so on) and services beside the new architecture (based on Server 2008 codebase). However some Windows Live programs can be installed as replacements/substitutes for "missing" progs (such as Windows Live PhotoGallery for Windows PhotoGallery). All supported except Windows Live Movie Maker Beta on Xp (Wave 3): http://download.live.com/ - Windows 7 Codec Supports: Windows 7 includes native support for a wide range of advanced video & audio codecs. Just download and install awesome K-Lite Codec Pack etc and you'll always be fine with WMP and some multiplayers programs on Xp (you can also install another free codec package you like/prefer): http://www.free-codecs.com/download/K_lite_codec_pack.htm - Windows Rights Management Services Client (DRM): required for your computer to run applications that provide functionality based on Windows RMS technologies (it's crap though ) : http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en - XML Support: Microsoft Core XML Services (MSXML) 6.0 & XML Paper Specification Essentials Pack view, generate & index XPS Docs (as MS replacement for .PDF format) is now built-in in Windows 7 (as XPS Viewer and so on). Viewer plugin of the component is also built in both IE7 and IE8 on Xp and Vista: See http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/xps/default.mspx Download MSXML 6.0: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en Download XPS Viewer for Windows Xp: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Windows 7 like - energy monitoring app: to actively control PC’s energy consumption "sorta like" Windows 7. Install and use Mirosoft Edison on Xp (by MS and third party dev): http://www.microsoft.com/environment/campaign_edison.aspx - New Windows 7 Internet Games on Xp: 7 introduces 3 new Windows Internet Games: Backgammon, Checkers, and Spades. They (old versions) might already be included on Xp. However you can still play the newer version on Xp online with updated GUI and features as well as (or like) Windows 7 (MSN Games) -> Requires min Xp SP2/3 and IE 6 SP1/IE 7/IE 8: Internet BackGammon: http://zone.msn.com/en/backgammon/zpadefault.htm Internet Checkers: http://zone.msn.com/en/checkers/zpadefault.htm Internet Spades: http://zone.msn.com/en/spades/zpadefault.htm - Download the free offline versions (Bicycle Games demos - Microsoft Games Studios) of them: Download Offline Backgammon & Checkers: http://www.microsoft.com/games/bicycle/board/ Download Offline Spades: http://www.microsoft.com/games/bicycle/card/ - Windows 7 Systray Clock on Xp: Credits to nemesiscult, WM & Deviantart: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=23093 http://nemesiscult.deviantart.com/art/Win7...on-XP-118343542 - New Windows 7 Sticky Notes on Both Xp and Vista: As we know, Beside new Windows 7 Math Input Panel (MIP) which has already been "ported" to Xp/Vista previously etc Here, Windows 7 has also included a new version of Sticky Notes application that's different with Vista or Tablet PC. It's just more like desktop gadget app rather than Tablet PC components (still with inking though), yeah simpler but still has some new features. It's a very useful app if you wanted to write simple daily note etc on desktop. You can still stick with older standard MS sticky notes with inking on Xp Tablet PC 2005 and Vista and the port version for Xp Pro, Home, MCE which you can download Here (original Vista and Xp Tablet PC Sticky Notes ported to Xp etc) and/or you can also use better free alternative 3rd party app on Xp with the same name just like the one in Windows 7, download Sticky Notes for free here, only about 449 Kb (credits to Igor Vigdorchik): http://www.igorv.com/Content/Applications/StickyNotes.aspx (or the "hacked/customized" one with only Vista/7 Sticky Notes icon here: http://www.4shared.com/file/131075283/3ccc9bfa/7_like_Sticky_Notes_app_for_Xp__Vista.html ) again, it also works on Vista. Another option: Sticker Lite: http://sticky-notes.net/ If you used Windows sidebar in Vista/Xp (port), you already have Sticky Notes gadget by default, or maybe by using Vista Inkpad Gadget Here (may need inking component i.e Microsoft.Ink.dll etc/Journal Viewer only on Xp Pro/Home/MCE). - Windows 7 with PC Virtualization Feature: Since MS would include PC virtualization in Windows 7 by default (i.e for running Xp/Vista/Other OSes in Windows 7, etc), you can also download Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 for Xp/Server 2003/Vista/2008: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en or better VMware Workstation: http://www.vmware.com/products/ws/ - RAIL QFE Beta Windows XP SP3: This package lets you to run many Windows XP productivity applications from a Windows 7-based PC using Windows Virtual PC (Thanks to Ricktendo for the info): http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en Vista SP1 version: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - DirectX 11: Important Note: The original DX11 is not confirmed yet to really work on Xp and Vista, just get DirectX 10 Complete-Final for Xp instead: http://www.4shared.com/file/95529018/5c488...ete-Final_.html - already confirmed) / just Google (Don't forget to also always update the DirectX / DirectX 9 runtimes/redistributables and related VGA/Sound drivers your Windows Xp). - Windows 7 Volume Mod for Xp (Credits to fediaFedia, WinMatrix/Deviantart): http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Windo...or-XP-115868137 - Windows 7 ISO burning feature -> How to burn ISO image in Windows Xp and download ISO Recorder PowerToy: http://www.petri.co.il/how_to_write_iso_files_to_cd.htm - Windows 7 Media Streaming: You can also use Windows Media Center/MCE for multimedia streaming on Xp or 3rd party alternative Simplify Media: http://www.simplifymedia.com/index.html Note: For portable device transfer etc, then maybe you can just look for "Microsoft Media Transfer" etc, e.g: visit http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/21199-tablet-pc-input-panel-for-xp-pro-home-mce-and-original-windows-7-mat/ - Microsoft TouchPack for Windows 7 OEM (Tablet PC) and Multitouch Features: While there's TouchPack for Windows 7 (Tablet PC), actually XP Tablet PC users can still get Touchpack for XP (with different apps and games though). Just download here for free (MUI and English): http://www.4shared.com/file/110117421/26e78ca9/Microsoft_TouchPack_UMPC_Xp.html and http://www.4shared.com/file/106202010/5e94d9a8/Microsoft_Touchpack_UMPC_Xp__English_.html (only for Xp Tablet PC 2005). Note: Non tablet PC XP users may also get some features of it: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/21199-tablet-pc-input-panel-for-xp-pro-home-mce-and-original-windows-7-mat/ and http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/21358-official-microsoft-wmp-brilliant-black-skin/ also http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/19910-xp-tablet-pc-powertoys-ported-to-normal-xp-pro-home-mce/ (: Tablet PC features on XP Pro/Home). Moreover Xp and Vista Tablet PC users can still get Multitouch drivers for their device from some OEM manufacturer (like Dell, just google e.g Here) while the feature is already built in Windows 7. - Windows 7 "New Folder" Button in Explorer Toolbar / Command Bar: Actually Windows XP already has its own "Make a new folder" button too, to create a new folder in Windows Explorer (it's located in XP Webview Panel/Common Task Pane, see screenshot: http://img243.imageshack.us/i/standardxpnewfolderbutt.jpg/ ), but yeah some people would love it's on the explorer toolbar as well as Open/Save dialog box (and just like Windows 7 RTM Explorer now). Since Baxbex new folder offered only old Windows 98 style icon (not matching with new XP visual style), just download free add on new folder button in XP Explorer Toolbar (my created-skinned/reshacked bxnewfolder with Vista style icon etc) + using hotkey and floating dialog box, fully functional and working as well: See screenshots: See screenshots: http://img263.imageshack.us/i/newfolderbuttoninxpexpl.jpg/ and http://img263.imageshack.us/i/cleanerusefuldialogboxa.jpg/ Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/140689147/273f676f/New_Folder_Button_in_Explorer_Toolbar.html - Windows 7 Media Center for Xp: Windows Media Center Installer for Xp Pro/Home/Tablet and Server 2003 SP2/SP3 and Server 2003 and Vista / Windows 7 Media Center Skin (Resource) for XP MCE 2005 (Make XP Media Center like Vista / Windows 7) + guides for transforming XP Pro / Home to XP MCE 2005 for free, etc: Visit my Thread: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552 http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Vista-or-7-Skin-for-Xp-MCE-111784108 - Newest: The New Vista / Windows 7 style Media Center Skin for XP MCE 2005 (XP Media Center 2010, just like Windows 7) by Ricktendo64, full credits to him: http://ricktendo64.deviantart.com/art/XP-Media-Center-2010-147661074 - Windows 7 File Viewer on Windows Explorer (preview pane) - not new / still same like Vista's though but comes with i.e. new toolbar button for launching preview pane for previewing any file type (with registered preview handlers), without opening it on default applications. Anyway you can still get the preview pane feature (integrated file viewer shell add on) on Windows XP and 2003 Explorer as well: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/19634-get-windows-vista-like-explorer-and-search-preview-pane-for-xp/ - Windows 7 Desktop Context Menu for XP and Vista: (Display settings, Gadgets, Personalize, View...): > Tutorials & Hacks by Vishal Gupta (credits to him): - http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-desktop-context-menu-in-xp-add-view-display-settings-gadgets-other-options/ - http://www.askvg.com/a-complete-tutorial-to-customize-desktop-context-menu-in-windows-xp-using-resource-hacker/ - http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-desktop-context-menu-in-vista-add-display-settings-and-gadgets-options/ > (New: Get Windows 7 context menu in XP and Vista by using Fast Explorer 2008 without any hack) functional/working with icons etc + possibility to add more custom context menus and items with commands and icons, tutorial and download code etc by Rudy-XP, Deviantart (credits to him): - http://rudy-xp.deviantart.com/art/7-Desktop-Context-Menu-for-XP-149444253 - Custom context menus in Vista and Windows 7: In Vista and especially Windows 7, it's kinda easier than XP to add your custom context menus for any function/application just by editing registry (even with icons in Windows 7 only) e.g. on desktop etc. To get same ability in Windows XP, just use/install a small & free 3rd party tool called "Fast Explorer 2008" by Alex Yakovlev (credits to him) - freeware, for even more options etc (thanks to Rudy-XP above for the info btw): http://thesoftpro.tripod.com/downloads/fe/index.htm - Windows 7 Start Menu for XP and Vista: * VSE7 (still being improved): http://www.technixupdate.com/get-windows-seven-like-start-menu-on-vistaxp/ , http://fogelsoft.extra.hu/forum/index.php?action=downloads;sa=view;id=37 * Vista Start Menu Pro (not too similar look but the best so far for me, very functional etc): http://www.vistastartmenu.com/ * Vistart (just with Seven / 7 skin, just google or go to deviantart.com etc): http://lee-soft.com/vistart/ or http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/20450-make-xp-start-menu-behave-like-vista-without-installing-vistart/ Transparent/Blurred Taskbar + 7 Superbar for Windows XP (just by using hacked msstyle binary, without installing any 3rd party): -> Thanks to PeterRollar: http://peterrollar.deviantart.com/art/perfect-clear-taskbar-win7-xp-136791727 ============================================== CONVERT XP HOME/PRO AND 2003 TO XP TABLET PC AND/OR MCE 2005 OR BOTH OF THEM OS TRANSFORMATIONS (XP/2003): GET XP MCE 2005 AND/OR TABLET PC 2005 COMPONENTS IN ONLY ONE OS Included: Transform Xp Tablet PC 2005 to MCE 2005 or vice versa and so on.... No components removed, but even adding more ones (i.e MCE to Tablet PC etc) This awesome project is usually called "Xp Ultimate Edition" (Xp Pro/Home + MCE 2005 + Tablet PC 2005, meant it will have features of all Xp editions) and also "Server 2003 Ultimate Edition" (Windows Server 2003 + MCE 2005 + Tablet PC 2005) -> all done in same way...(as found in MSFN site and Rafael's about several years ago...). Convert XP Pro, Home to MCE 2005 + Tablet PC 2005 (AKA "Xp Ultimate Edition"): Download "The Concept of XP Ultimate Edition.pdf" for more info: http://www.4shared.com/file/134898335/c4a84645/The_Concept_of_XP_Ultimate_Edition.html - Also visit: http://www.4shared.com/dir/15605295/5d4fb72f/Xp_OS_Transformation_Packs__Tablet_PCMCE_.html No hack/patch needed, your Windows will still always be genuine as before, all done by official MS tools/binaries and some command... You can still do only one (i.e only convert Xp Pro to Xp MCE 2005 OS) Additional MCE and Tablet PC Stuffs for Xp (OS Transformation) : It reminds me about MSFN/Rafael "Xp Ultimate" project several years ago ...although it's been "officially" removed on their sites, but you can still find and download some torrents of it though...). However you can still create your own "Xp Ultimate yourself", more customizable by converting Xp Pro/Home to either or both Xp MCE 2005 and Xp Tablet PC 2005 (OSes). Since they are supersets of Xp Pro with add ons (still based on same code base), and don't worry, there's no Xp Pro/Home feature removed. Here is the simple way without need to reinstall/reformat the OS (you may need some tools that can be downloaded/googled below). Anyway Good luck... ========================================= - Convert Xp Pro/Home/Tablet PC to Xp MCE 2005 without reinstalling the OS: If you really want to convert Xp to real Xp MCE 2005 OS without reinstalling/reformatting the OS (it will be recognized as original MCE 2005 by MS and updated!) Some files already included in the package (mediactr.cab, inf so on). You can download my package below (1.)Install Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 Install Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0.3705 and It's SP3. Copy "Copy2Gac.exe" to "C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v1.0.3705" (Optional) Install Microsoft .Net Framework 1.1 and its SP1. Install WMP 10 or 11 and Supported MCE DVD Decoder such as ones from NVIDIA, Sonic, or WinDVD. (2.)modify MCE registry Open regedit.exe, goto HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\WPA, create key named “MediaCenter”. Create DWORD Value named “Installed” in key and valued “1”. “Installed” value in “MediaCenter” of XP (VLK Ver) OS must be String Value but DWORD value. And “Installed” value in “MediaCenter” key in all server 2003 OS must be string values. Because there are no WinXP MCE VLK and Win 2003 MCE versions. You can’t login if these values are DWORD! If there is “Installed” valued “0” in “MediaCenter” in your Windows XP, you can not modify it in current OS. You must use “load HIVE” function in another OS (in another PC/partition) like this: Click HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE. From the File menu, choose Load Hive, Navigate to the registry location on your OS such as c:\windows\system32\config\system,name it “temp”. after you modified the value to “1”,click temp,choose “unload HIVE” to save it. You can also use Bart PE bootable disc or my fave: ERD Commander 2005 CD (google them or download Here ) (3.)install Media Center Get medctroc.inf, plusoc.inf, sonic.inf (all included) .copy them to C:\windows\inf\ ; then Run following commands to install Media Center Open Command Prompt (Run -> Type "CMD" without Quotes) or directly double click"MCE.cmd" to run the MCE commands (included). Install Media Center (Need MEDIACTR.CAB): rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection Freestyle 128 medctroc.inf Install Windows Digital Media Enhancement (Need plus.cab): rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusGold 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusSpac 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusDavn 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusNatr 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusMpix 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusDancer 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusParty 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusAudio 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusCDLM 128 plusoc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection PlusTheme 128 plusoc.inf Install Sonic DVD and CD Burning (Need sonic.cab): rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection SonicDVDandCDBurning 128 sonic.inf Note: After executing command, it will open new dialog window and ask you to navigate/browse to where you placed mediactr.cab, sonic.cab, and plus.cab. Follow and do it. 4) update your MCE 2005 to UR2 (Update Rollup 2). Download it from Microsoft Download Center for free (also with other higher MCE updates if available). NOTE: 1.Please open full Video and Audio acceleration in Windows Server 2003 Create a folder named "ehome" if it doesnt exist on Server 2003. Copy "CUSTSAT.dll" to it. 2.this way also can be applied to Windows XP/2003 x64 Edition, Both “Installed” must be string values 3.if you have MCE remote control,MCE remote keyboard U can use Drives for XP in Windows Server 2003. 4.Can not install MCE upgrades in Windows Server 2003 because the OS is not WinXP,and there're some other problems by this cause. 5.Can not install Update Rollup 2 for MCE2005 when "Installed" is string value.so when you use XP VOL, you can expand "WindowsXPMediaCenter2005-KB900325-XXX.exe",and install upgrades listed in "paths.ini" manual. Thanks to neo.JoeJoe - Download Xp to Xp MCE 2005 OS transformation package (no need to reinstall the OS), guide included: also included mediactr.cab, plus.cab, sonic.cab and their .inf files etc after extracting it : Name : Convert_Xp_to_Xp_MCE_2005.zip Size : 165 Mb MD5 :92c24a535857516fc10ecdf513b86dea http://depositfiles.com/en/files/e36w3x9ja Mirror download link: http://depositfiles.com/en/files/e36w3x9ja - 4Shared: http://www.4shared.com/dir/15813189/6da563..._2005_Pack.html After you have converted Xp to Xp MCE 2005, then please download and install: - Download Update Rollup 2 for MCE 2005 KB900325 : http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Download April 2006 Update Rollup KB914548 : http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en - Download Vista Skin for Xp MCE 2005: File Name: Vista Skin For Xp MCE 2005.zip MD5: 4c8233a128ed5220548852ccc92b1821 Size: 9,73 Mb http://www.4shared.com/file/83004700/39da028f/Vista_Skin_For_Xp_MCE_2005.html or visit my thread here: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552 Updated MCE version + skin: - Download update Rollup October 2006 KB925766 : http://support.microsoft.com/kb/925766 and some other latest updates. Note: Again They are not included in SP3 for Xp, you have to download and install them all manually. - Download Vista Skin For Xp MCE 2005 (Build 5.1.2715.3011): File Name: Vista Skin For Xp MCE 2005 (Build 5.1.2715.3011).zip Size: 9,73 Mb MD 5: c70dd446bd4eed909378abe450a61f0b http://www.4shared.com/file/88509509/e32273d1/Vista_Skin_For_Xp_MCE_2005__Build_5127153011_.html or visit my thread here: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552 ============================================== - Convert Xp Pro/Home/MCE 2005 to Xp Tablet PC 2005 OS without reinstalling the OS: If you really want to convert Xp to real Xp Tablet PC 2005 OS without reinstalling/reformatting the OS (it will be recognized as original MCE 2005 by MS and updated!). Useful i.e you have Tablet PC with Vista installed but still want to: dual boot it with Xp but you only have original Xp Pro. Just convert it to Xp Tablet PC for free. 1) Install: -Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 -Install Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0.3705 and It's SP3. -Copy "Copy2Gac.exe" to "C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v1.0.3705" -Install Microsoft .Net Framework 1.1 and its SP1. 2) Navigate : HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\WPA and create a key named TabletPC now add a string value named "Installed" and set as 1 Or directly double click "TabletPC.reg" to merge it into registry->Optional though to finally convert the OS to Xp Tablet PC 2005 as you can see the System Properties changed. But finally the system will still be Tablet PC 2005 OS after some MS updates and boots though. Install Tablet PC 2005 U can replace above commands for MCE or add both MCE+TPC with these commands Get tabletpc.inf (included) .copy to C:\windows\inf\ ; then Run following commands to install Tablet PC components: Open Command Prompt (Run -> Type "CMD" without Quotes) or directly double click"TABLETPC.cmd" to run the Tablet PC commands (included). rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection TPG 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection System 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection OOBE 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection Notebook 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection StickyNotes 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection AllShortcuts 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection SRInstall 128 tabletpc.inf rundll32 setupapi.dll,InstallHinfSection AllReg 128 tabletpc.inf C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v1.0.3705\Copy2Gac.exe /i /a /p:"C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\Ink\1.7\" Note: After executing command, it will open new dialog window and ask you to navigate/browse to where you placed TabletPC.cab. Follow and do it. To make Tablet PC Input Panel etc working/updated, just download and reinstall SP2/SP3 on Xp. Done. Thanks to neo.JoeJoe - Download Xp to Xp Tablet PC 2005 OS transformation package (no need to reinstall the OS), guide included: also included tabletpc.cab, tabletpc.inf files etc after extracting it : Name : Convert_Xp_to_Xp_Tablet_PC_2005.zip Size : 71 Mb MD5 :24fa6c9fb208ba60c81eb8f30fff6f43 http://depositfiles.com/en/files/173n1c4m1 Mirror download link: http://depositfiles.com/en/files/173n1c4m1 After that, please download and/or reinstall SP2 or SP3 for Xp (SP3 is recommended since it's the last one) (i.e to fix/update Tablet PC Input Panel version etc) or using Windows Update. Xp SP2: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=049C9DBE-3B8E-4F30-8245-9E368D3CDB5A&displaylang=en Xp SP3: http://www.microsoft.com/DownLoads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5b33b5a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&displaylang=en - Special/Recommended Stuffs For XP Tablet PC 2005 Users: Download tip.exe and floattip.exe + some TIP tweaks (Btw it was also included in TIP installer for XP Pro/Home/MCE/2003): Since we can't create shortcut to launch Tablet PC Input Panel (TIP) directly other than the standard icon on taskbar (maybe there's some hidden parameter to launch it, but i don't know so far), In Vista we can launch TIP by just clicking the shortcut on start menu (this is available in my TIP installer for XP Pro and Home). For Xp Tablet PC 2005 users alternatively you can double click tip.exe or the shortcut of it to launch TIP. Also sometimes Xp Tablet PC users can't always find floating icon i.e when launching Notepad with TIP (maybe depending on brand/hardwares/some drivers etc), then you can use floattip.exe to fix/show the floating TIP icon always. Small size and very useful. Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/131012916/83a6f6c4/tipexe__floattipexe_for_Xp_Tablet_PC_2005.html Download Vista Pack for Xp Tablet PC 2005: http://www.4shared.com/file/100354314/1eb8...plications.html -> Make Tablet PC applications (Windows Journal, Inkball, Sticky Notes etc) look like the ones in Vista / Windows 7 Download Vista / Windows 7 Icons for TIP, Journal, Sticky Notes, Inkball (XP Tablet PC Applications): http://www.4shared.com/file/131121973/3bdfa356/Vista_7_Icons_for_TIP_Journal_Inkball_Sticky_Notes.html Note: The process is not reversible/uninstallable though... ============================================== Updated: If you can't download from the links above, then you can download them (both, Media Center and Tablet PC packages) on my thread Wincert HERE (please read Post #1 and #7) seems that bcoz of "hotlink protection" by Wincert so you can only download them there (don't worry, you're not required to register or login on Wincert, but again just visit my thread there on Wincert). Thanks to my friend Ricktendo64 for the info. ========================================== - Added/Updated for Xp to MCE 2005 Transformation Above (Thanks to Kyosan, WinMatrix): Here are the steps by tmksnyder on The Green Button : ===================================================================== Xp OS Transformation Packs: - Download: Convert Xp Pro, Home to Xp MCE 2005 Pack without clean install: http://depositfiles.com/en/files/e36w3x9ja Vista Skin for Xp MCE 2005 (Windows Media Center): http://www.4shared.com/file/88509509/e3227...127153011_.html http://www.4shared.com/file/83004700/39da0...p_MCE_2005.html - Download: Convert Xp Pro, Home, MCE to Xp Tablet PC 2005 Pack without clean install: http://depositfiles.com/en/files/173n1c4m1 - Special/Recommended Stuffs For XP Tablet PC 2005 Users: Download tip.exe and floattip.exe + some TIP tweaks (Btw it was also included in TIP installer for XP Pro/Home/MCE/2003): Since we can't create shortcut to launch Tablet PC Input Panel (TIP) directly other than the standard icon on taskbar (maybe there's some hidden parameter to launch it, but i don't know so far), In Vista we can launch TIP by just clicking the shortcut on start menu (this is available in my TIP installer for XP Pro and Home). For Xp Tablet PC 2005 users alternatively you can double click tip.exe or the shortcut of it to launch TIP. Also sometimes Xp Tablet PC users can't always find floating icon i.e when launching Notepad with TIP (maybe depending on brand/hardwares/some drivers etc), then you can use floattip.exe to fix/show the floating TIP icon always. Small size and very useful. Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/131012916/83a6f6c4/tipexe__floattipexe_for_Xp_Tablet_PC_2005.html Vista Pack for Xp Tablet PC 2005 (Vistaized Tablet PC Applications UI: Journal, Inkball etc): http://www.4shared.com/file/100354314/1eb8...plications.html ====================================================================== Recommendation: Again, if you only want to get working MCE and/or Tablet PC applications on your Xp Pro/Home/MCE (for tablet apps)/Tablet PC (for MCE app)/Server 2003 especially for "Windows customization and standard usability purposes" e.g make it like Vista etc, then it might be enough to install them using my instant Windows Media Center and Tablet PC installers etc. But if you really want to build a real Media Center PC or install it on real Tablet PC with all equipments, then it might be better (recommended) to get original Xp MCE 2005 or Tablet PC 2005 (legal or...lol) or at least you can also convert your current Xp/2003 OSes to Xp MCE 2005 and/or Tablet PC 2005 (or even both) using above ways as recommended. Especially since they might have been intentionally designed and optimized for the purpose by MS (e.g some settings, basic drivers, etc). Please consider about the advantages and disadvantages, pros and cons, before doing the job. You can still use the same skin/GUI on them using e.g My Vista Skin for Xp MCE 2005 or Vista Pack for Xp Tablet PC 2005 applications to make the apps like the ones in Vista / Windows 7, get them here or from my other related threads. Anyway good luck and long live Xp. Please Note: Since some app files might have been "patched" or "compressed" (packed) to work properly on another Xp OS editions etc and it might be a necessary effort for that beside the installing code itself, then some "false alarm" or "false positive" may happen to some clean exe installers/apps /installation process (rare) although they are actually clean and safe and does not pose a threat to your system.. The term false positive is used when antivirus software wrongly classifies an innocuous ( inoffensive ) file as a virus. The incorrect detection may be due to heuristics or to an incorrect virus signature in a database.Usually some great and famous antiviruses (such as Kaspersky, AVG, Norman, McAfee, etc) won't have the such problem so far bcoz they will work better. If that happens, then you can simply ignore it and continue installing as it's guaranteed actually 100% safe and clean by me. But again, it's still 100% your own choice and right to decide. Wait a second, Xp is being old? We're all just talking an operating system, and XP is a great and very stable operating system, and its main purpose is just for running applications, not being themselves and XP does that just fine by far. And we can always use it as long as it really does...(even i have often seen some people who are still using Windows 98, nowadays)...Microsoft, OEM partners, and 3rd party software developers will still support Xp for years (MS security/critical/bug updates until 2014) and all/most 3rd party apps and drivers, hardwares are still compatible with Xp nowadays as well as some years forward, still more than Vista and Windows 7 Beta when i wrote this, fact, so don't worry. Anyway long live Xp! ====================================================================== New Info of the day: - Vista UAC "ported" to Xp (Vista UAC-like tool for Xp), it works and has similar GUI: http://www.4shared.com/file/93141554/85ec6...UAC_for_Xp.html (Full credits to Mihai Alexandru Vasiliu - jcxp) - The best gallery (softwares) for xp to Vista/Seven/Mac OSX Leopard/Linux etc transformations: http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.htm - New: Seven Transformation Pack by Windows X (after VTP), + many add ons etc to make Xp like Windows 7: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=23857 ===================================================================== (Updated) Just Added Some Tools for Windows Explorer to The Thread Here: Some Free-Powerful Shell Extensions for Windows XP Explorer (Recommended for XP - work on other OSes like 2003, Vista, or Windows 7 too) You can also visit my original thread on Deviantart for more info, updates, etc here (Windows All): http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Great-Windows-Explorer-Tools-142913425 1. XP / 2003 Only: Enable XP / Common Visual Style on Some Controls of Loaded Shell Extensions For Free - An Important feature for Windows XP shell customization... (Especially 3rd parties) - in shell extensions or activex objects (e.g toolbar button / BHO, explorer bar, context menu items etc) in Windows Explorer, note must support / have InitCommonControls function, with link to comctl32 version 6 in XP/Vista or higher, and so on). For more info please see some documentations about it on MSDN: e.g http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb775695%28VS.85%29.aspx and http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms997646.aspx (Look, if you have Vista / WIndows 7 then you will notice that Vista / 7 has already improved/enabled the feature natively, by default. You would also get the feature by installing Window Blinds on XP, but it's not free though...). To get the visual feature on XP and 2003 as default (M$ didn't do it for "some political reason" lol), on any shell extensions (especially 3rd party, if supported) visually without installing or patching any file, especially when on non-classic theme, just simply put / copy the explorer.exe.manifest (external manifest file) to Windows Directory to enable the feature without tampering explorer.exe itself or any system file (just take advantage of its "hidden" native feature instead). Easy to do that, without any special skill or "hacking" and programming language at all, lol that's it. It's safe and not harmful at all, would make XP shell looks better. You can safely delete it easily anytime if you dont want it anymore. Useful for both dev and user. Very small size (download explorer.exe.manifest for only less than 1 KB lol!) For Example: A. Before applying manifest (oldy): (Click to enlarge) B. After applying manifest (better look): (Click to enlarge) Download it Here (With Guide & Batch Files etc): (and just put it on Windows Directory (%Windir% or C:\Windows, then restart Explorer/Windows to see the changes) http://www.4shared.com/file/146116163/39c2b651/Visual_Manifest_for_XP_Explorer_Shell_Extension.html Or Just Download explorer.exe.manifest file only: http://www.4shared.com/file/146169885/abb0c923/explorerexe.html Alternatively you can also copy this code and save it as .manifest file named "explorer.exe.manifest" using Notepad: <?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="yes"?> <assembly xmlns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:asm.v1" manifestVersion="1.0"> <assemblyIdentity version="1.0.0.0" processorArchitecture="X86" name="CompanyName.ProductName.YourApp" type="win32" /> <description>Your application description here.</description> <dependency> <dependentAssembly> <assemblyIdentity type="win32" name="Microsoft.Windows.Common-Controls" version="6.0.0.0" processorArchitecture="X86" publicKeyToken="6595b64144ccf1df" language="*" /> </dependentAssembly> </dependency> </assembly> You can also use it with any "MyApp" app with myapp.exe executable file for similar purpose as well (if supported, with above requirements e.g has link to comctl32 and so on), just rename it myapp.exe.manifest (following the executable name) and put it as external file in the same directory e.g in MyApp folder). To get the same result on control panel extension/applets (.cpl), since .cpl is actually a dll that is running by using rundll32.exe, then just use same manifest file (renamed to "rundll32.exe.manifest") and copy it to C:\Windows\system32. You may need to restart Windows (or the service) before the change appears. Download (complete): http://www.4shared.com/file/153774846/19cdeadc/Visual_Manifest_for_XP_Control_Panel_Extension.html Or download rundll32.exe.manifest file only: http://www.4shared.com/file/153775143/deca42b9/rundll32exe.html 2. "New Folder" Button in XP Explorer Toolbar / Command Bar (just like Windows 7): Actually Windows XP already has its own "Make a new folder" button too, to create a new folder in Windows Explorer (it's located in XP Webview Panel/Common Task Pane, see screenshot: http://img243.imageshack.us/i/standardxpnewfolderbutt.jpg/ ), but yeah some people would love it's on the explorer toolbar as well as Open/Save dialog box (and just like Windows 7 RTM Explorer now). Hopefully useful for you... Since Baxbex new folder offered only old Windows 98 style icon (not matching with new XP visual style) see: http://www.baxbex.com/images/shoots/bxnewfolder.html'>http://www.baxbex.com/images/shoots/bxnewfolder.html , then you can just download this free add on for new folder button in XP Explorer Toolbar (my created-skinned/reshacked bxnewfolder with Vista / 7 style icon etc) + using hotkey and floating dialog box, + external manifest file (explorer.exe.manifest) to enable XP / Visual style on some controls as above. Fully functional and working as well. See online screenshots: http://img263.imageshack.us/i/newfolderbuttoninxpexpl.jpg/ and http://img263.imageshack.us/i/cleanerusefuldialogboxa.jpg/ -> Screenshots of "New Folder" button on XP Explorer Toolbar: (Sorry can't display more larger images here for some technical reason): A. Vista / 7 style icon new folder on XP Toolbar: (Click to enlarge) B. Creating new folder on XP Explorer: (Click to enlarge) C. Creating new folder dialog box - useful and cleaner UI with XP / Vista visual style: Download it Here: http://www.4shared.com/file/140689147/273f676f/New_Folder_Button_in_Explorer_Toolbar.html Hopefully still useful especially for XP users here (works on 98, ME, 2000, XP, 2003..., while it has only dialog box and hotkey on Vista and 7 though). By the way, since this one is just using the same library from baxbex new folder (it's freeware, all credits and thanks to Baxbex), and most people had complaint about that they were not able to reshack the app using Resource Hacker / any res editor to change the original "old" Windows 98 style icon etc in the bx toolbar, actually it's because the file (activeX dll) was encrypted and compressed (packed) with 3rd party PE compressor (e.g UPX, Execryptor...), after checking it by PEid then i found it that was Aspack 2.12 and then decided to unpack it, (note: not all app binaries can work properly after they are unpacked, so it's also necessary to dissassembly, dump and rebuild the PE headers, some fixes and rechecks etc) until the dll was registered fine, finally the little work was kinda like reverse engineering rather than just reshacking lol. And since it was unpacked (uncompressed), the size become little bigger of course lol although there's no problem with it, anyway i wish they would also update the app in near future, soon... Updated: If you already have standard/original Baxbex New Folder application installed: http://www.baxbex.com/ , then you can also just download this smaller patch only to get Vista style icon (would also give the similar result): http://www.4shared.com/file/152692792/57222e19/Baxbex_New_Folder-Vista_Icon__Patch_Only_.html 3. FolderBox for Windows Explorer (Unpacked too/Skinned/skinnable): A free application that displays additional folders (window) in the lower part of Windows Explorer, displays the contents of two folders or more, useful and cool (with Windows 98 icons though). So i just changed some few UI features of it (unpacked and res-edited like BxNewFolder above, "fixed" text, enabled "dead" icons and so on...). a free application that displays additional folders (window) in the lower part of Windows Explorer, displays the contents of two folders or more, very useful. Since it's already unpacked, you may customize the icons yourself if you want later, by using any capable delphi res editor e.g PE Explorer. At least it's still better than original look imo, + also enabled (some) XP visual common controls as said above, works well on Vista and Windows 7 as well as Windows XP: Screenshot: (Click to enlarge) Edit/Updated: Beside the standard one, i've just added FolderBox with Vista Icons (on its toolbar - see screenshots), sorry just got them for free (free Vista toolbar icons, 100% legal). Just like the standard one, FolderBox with Vista icons will work well on all Windows versions: 98, ME, 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, and Windows 7 without any problem so far: Screenshot of FolderBox (with Vista icons) on XP and Windows 7: (Click to enlarge) Download it here: http://www.4shared.com/file/145993156/b890321e/Baxbex_FolderBox_Unpacked-Skinned.html Again this FolderBox version works on Windows all: 98, ME, 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, Windows 7...all credits to Baxbex for the free original apps (just skinned them). Updated: If you already have standard/original Baxbex FolderBox application installed: http://www.baxbex.com/ , then you can also just download this smaller patch only to get Vista style icons (would also give the similar result): http://www.4shared.com/file/152692434/46e8ddff/Baxbex_FolderBox-Vista_Style_Icons__Patch_Only_.html 4. Another Useful File Viewer for XP Explorer With Preview Pane (just like Vista / Windows 7 feature): Preview any file on Windows Explorer (text, documents, images, multimedia audio-video, compressed binaries etc) without using the default application, easy and faster: Screenshot: (Click to enlarge) Updated: it's already included a patch to get Vista style icons too (optional) now, in the same download package below: Download it here: http://www.4shared.com/file/145080698/fe089106/File_Preview_Program_for_Windows_Explorer.html OS: Windows XP, 2003, Vista, Windows 7...(Windows All). You can also please visit my thread here for more options etc: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/19634-get-windows-vista-like-explorer-and-search-preview-pane-for-xp/ - Added Here: Some other free "special" shell extension-based tools/apps that might be useful for you (file viewers and metadata properties tools etc) here: Download links: - EXIF tooltip & tag editor on context menu : http://www.4shared.com/file/68602957/34e8b46a/Exif_Tag_Editor_for_Windows_Xp.html - Multimedia tooltip & tag editor on context menu (album art + metadata editor etc) : http://www.4shared.com/file/60548711/9c3f833c/Multimedia_Tooltip_for_Explorer.html - Thumbnail for text files on Windows Explorer : http://www.4shared.com/file/60260203/cf905a8d/Thumbnail_Extensions_103__text_file_thumbnail_on_explorer_.html - Vista Explorer preview pane for XP (File viewer-Complete) : http://www.4shared.com/file/58042204/7195bc4a/Vista__Explorer_Preview_Pane_for_Xp.html - MacOSX/Leopard-style Coverflow (AKA Quicklook) for Windows Explorer (directory, file content, & thumbnail viewer etc): Explorer Coverflow for Windows by Vemod - aqua-soft.org (full credits to him) : http://www.aqua-soft.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=52376 Edit: there are still "afew issues" with Vista/7 though, also seems it's not quite stable on XP. Anyhow it's still free and working, and seems the app itself is still under development/being developed...(thanks to my friend Kyosan for the info btw). Note: XP/2003: You need administrator rights to install the shell extensions. Vista/Windows 7: Make sure you always install/register/run "as administrator" (self explanatory)... - Just FYI: Don't you know that the Vista and Windows 7's Explorer is just updated versions of XP Explorer? (even with some remaining similar features): Of course you can also use some custom XP visual styles (skin themes) and shellstyle.dll to get almost same layouts. Visit some great websites to browse e.g. WinMatrix, Deviantart, or just Google for more lol... You can also do some tweaks or use some Explorer add ons from Microsoft and 3rd parties to get similar features (or at least emulate them). Just google for more info and tools i.e. visit: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Great-Windows-Explorer-Tools-142913425 , http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/19751-get-thumbnails-of-more-file-types-text-document-and-3rd-party-file/ , and http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/19634-get-windows-vista-like-explorer-and-search-preview-pane-for-xp/ etc... - Added Here: Vista or Windows 7 style application "Windows Help and Support" Mod for XP: Just released it on my Deviantart page too: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/XP-Help-and-Support-Mod-144830894 Well, i have noticed that the XP Help and Support application did not even get attention (not patched/skinned, except only for e.g. the help logo on start menu) from most well-known XP transformation packs so far (including even Vista Transformation Pack, Vistamizer, Bricopack Inspirate etc). So it might be necessary to create it by myself and share to people and XP users here, especially for "total XP transformation" as best as possible i hope...it's not perfect yet but still make XP Help and Support look fresh and updated, just like Windows Help and Support in Vista or Windows 7 (AKA Windows Help and Support). As already tested, it works on Windows XP all versions as well: XP Pro, Home, Tablet PC 2005, and MCE 2005, also retail, corporate, and OEM version. No original functionality is removed/disabled. It's for XP SP3 (should be no problem since most of XP users already have SP3 installed nowadays, whatever the version: Pro, Home, MCE, Tablet PC and so on...) - Screenshot of Vista / Windows 7 like Help and Support on XP: (click to enlarge) It will change some GUI elements of XP Help and Support applications such as icons and toolbar icons, images, text, searchbar etc just like Vista or Windows 7 version (e.g. "Windows Help and Support" on the title bar and taskbar instead of "Help and Support Center" and so on, as you can see the preview/screenshot above...). Note the color itself is also depending on XP theme engine and visual style (for example i used black VistaXP theme in the screenshot btw). Furthermore it still can be customized on some features though, e.g. just like html pages by yourself... - Download links for the application and more info: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/XP-Help-and-Support-Mod-144830894 and/or http://www.4shared.com/file/127541912/a129b654/Vista_like_Help_and_Support_ap.html GET VISTA AND WINDOWS 7 UAC (USER ACCOUNT CONTROL) FEATURES ON WINDOWS XP AND SERVER 2003 COMPLETELY WITH VISTA/7 LOOK AND FEEL (Get UAC Dialog Boxes + "Run as administrator" Context Menu on XP Shell Etc Just like Vista and Windows 7 - Functional)- By Rudy-XP - Deviantart : http://rudy-xp.deviantart.com/art/Vista-and-Windows-7-UAC-for-XP-170656130 1. Smart UAC - Alternative for Vista/7 UAC in XP, Vista, and Windows 7: Smart UAC Replacement application looks almost similar with original Vista and Windows 7 UAC, especially with my own Vista and 7 skins as you can see the preview screenshot above, but it's not the best for me, still included for more options though. The dev said it's a better alternative for standard Vista and Windows 7 UAC, while can be used as better replacement, and you can also install and use it on downlevel OS such as Windows 2000 and XP as well. Although some people may still not fully trust the application because the original author Security Stronghold ever released some "bad coded" (or whatever they were called lol) applications previously in history before Smart UAC released, anyway after i'm installing and using it on my computer (XP and 7) i'm sure the application is safe and works well i.e. for UAC like dialog prompt for i.e. when you installing an application that requires administrator rights or changes your system settings and registry, but the online malware scanning feature is not effective and obviously unnecessary to have (i've also never used it) and even may look suspicious. Since actually UAC is not antivirus but instead just to prevent unknown programs which some of them might be malicious from being executed without user permission and when user needs administrator rights to e.g. install programs. 2. SuRun (SuPer User Run) - A Better version of Sudo for Windows (Personally the best UAC app for me, more recommended): No doubt SuRun (SuPer User Run) is the best of the best UAC like program for XP so far i've found, even it's still better than Vista and Windows 7 UAC themselves for me seriously, although the Smart UAC replacement looks closer to Vista/7 UAC UI, but don't worry i have already created Vista / 7 skin for SuRun and tweaked some of its GUI and features so you can still use the application in full Vista / Windows 7 look and feel with better or even best features and functionalities ever as you can see in the preview screenshot above, yeah surely SuRun works much better than Smart UAC and original UAC both. Actually SuRun is based on "Sudown" source code or often called "Sudo" (Super User Do) for Windows just like "porting" similar feature "SuDo" in UNIX/Linux OS to Windows finally (actually Vista/7 UAC was inspired by Sudo in UNIX since it has existed in the OS for years when Windows 9X-XP are still vulnerable, UAC comes to fix security problem in Windows OS after XP, as important security improvement M$ should port it back to XP when it was in mainstream support imho) when a user doesn't have to use administrator account to do some administrator job because if she/he do it's maybe risky for the system security because any programs even including malicious ones can also run with administrator previleges in such environment (if you ever heard or read about that, Sudown was often called another incarnation for "UAC for Windows XP"). In Vista/7 user is still an administrator account by default like XP, but with more limited rights that sometimes may make some jobs "more complicated than before" for some users lol. You'll often see "shield icon" everywhere only for some features and applications which need admin rights to run on Vista and Windows 7, even if you're an admin. SuRun will limit your rights for better security and instead will offer some UAC dialog boxes only for only for some features and applications which need admin rights to run on XP, just like Vista and Windows 7 with UAC activated above. As SuRun is much better than Sudown, for example you don't need to have password and enter it multiple times over and over again in the dialog box like Sudown (Sudown only caches the password for less 5 minutes) plus fixed some Sudown security holes, additionally it has a better more complete UAC like dialog box for executed applications, and "Run as administrator" context menu (right click) etc, just like Vista and Windows 7! SuRun also works on Windows 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, 2008, and also Windows 7 and can be used as alternative for standard UAC. SuRun will also "convert" your account status from powerful administrator (which is risky with such malicious activities) to standard user with limited rights that is included in "SuRunners group". Since default users in both of them are still administrators like XP, but with more limited rights, so it's also good to install SuRun in Vista and Windows 7 as well as Windows XP and Server 2003, also Windows 2000. Again both programs above has Vista/7 skins that i've created and included all of them in one download package. Just get them on your XP (or even maybe Vista/Windows 7) for more Vista/Windows 7 look and feel plus the functionality as well. Please enjoy! Screenshot of Vista/Windows 7 UAC in XP desktop: - Download Vista/7 UAC style applications for XP: http://www.4shared.com/file/hNOsRb0v/Vista__Windows_7_UAC_features_.html - Vista or Windows 7 Common Open and Save Dialog Box for Windows XP (skinned): Make common XP open and save dialog box like the one in Vista or Windows 7 (some icons or GUI elements, my places editor...) by patching comdlg32.dll and comctl32.dll both version 5 and 6 (side by side) in XP using Resource Hacker or any capable binary resource editor (e.g. PE Explorer etc). (Actually the main dialog box UI resource is in comdlg32.dll file e.g. layouts, control buttons etc, however i didn't include the edited comdlg32.dll here since there's almost no significant difference between XP and Vista except for some minor button changes, but except for new Vista/7 only common item dialogs, which too bad, not portable mainly for the new APIs in the OS, unless (maybe) you're using some 3rd party emulators such as WPF task dialog libraries). to change all the common dialog boxes UI in Windows (e.g. open & save, print, run dialog boxes, etc) like some layouts and control buttons etc you'd need to edit dialog resources in comdlg32.dll library using Reshack or any capable resource editor : Screenshot: (Click to enlarge it) If you want also to customize the common XP open and save dialog just like Vista / Windows 7 more (styles) then just download these patched comctl32.dll version 5 and 6 both in one package + guide info etc to replace etc Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/u5PijFrT/Common_Vista_or_Windows_7_Open.html To customize places bar links (the left sidebar e.g. My Documents, Desktop...) in standard Windows' common open save dialog box, just use this free tool (portable, no need to install), download "Common Open Save Dialog Box Places Bar Editor" (Windows All) : http://www.4shared.com/file/207511787/b9576050/Common_Open_Save_Dialog_Box_Pl.html Btw if you'd like to use free replacement for standard Windows common open save dialog box for XP and Windows 9x with preview pane, search, customizable places bar and favorite links etc (like Vista / 7), then maybe you can also try this one (Windows All) : - Screenshot (Click to enlarge): Download (also included in the download package above): http://www.4shared.com/file/208746534/2e995a64/Open_Save_As_Dialog_Box_Replac.html Other related info etc: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Great-Windows-Explorer-Tools-142913425 ===================================================================== Special Added Here: VERY WORTH PLUG INS FOR WINDOWS XP FAX AND PICTURE VIEWER: (Thanks to Raymond): Windows Picture and Fax Viewer is an image viewer that is a part of the Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 operating systems. It is based on GDI+ and is capable of viewing images format supported by GDI+: JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF (including animated GIFs), ICO, WMF, EMF and TIFF format files. it can still be improved to have more for 200+ image support such as *.msp, *.gem, *.cals and *.dpx. many etc by Installing imageXtender (very recommended): Download it here: http://www.imagextender.com/ ===================================================================== ANOTHER GUIDE: ONE GOOD EXAMPLE OF CUSTOMIZING/ENHANCING XP TO MAKE IT LOOK AND BEHAVE LIKE VISTA (ALSO WINDOWS 7) (In A Simplest/Minimalistic Way Without Being 100% Vista “Copycat” Lol)... Important Note: You can always customize your Windows Xp less or more or as much as you want, that’s why it’s called “personal desktop” anyways. You’re not required to make it 100% look or behave like Vista, but still “enhance” it instead (Usability is still more important than eye candy anyways IMHO)…Some further tweaks maybe required as well. PS: On Windows 7 Beta, even some Vista native applications (e.g Windows Meeting Space and PhotoGallery) have been removed (get the replacements from both Windows Live and Office Live). Any effort to get them all is still relevant since Windows 7 is an enhanced version of Vista... - DESKTOP/SHELL GUI: Bootscreen: Just Standard Xp or another one with Tuneup Utilities (better than “empty”black Vista BS imo) Logon Screen: One from Xpize with Tuneup Utilities Themes/VS: VistaXp by KOL Wallpapers: Original Vista Wals Screensavers: Original Vista SS ported to Xp Most Shell Icons: Get them from VTP 9 (selective install) Vista Start Menu: Customize Xp Start Menu Without Vistart and Any Third Party: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=20450 ANIMATED GUI (DWM Emulation): Shadow: Y’z Shadow Transparency: Border Skin (optional, too bad transparency sucks on Xp, mainly with topdesk) Animated Icon: Uber Icon (optional) Animated window: Window FX Flip3d: Topdesk and Vista Flip3d icon Taskbar Thumbnail: Visual Tooltip Transparent window and always on top: PowerMenu (optional) WINDOWS EXPLORER FEATURES: Explorer Breadcrumb Addressbar: Folder Pilot or QTTabbar or Minimalist Explorer Breadcrumb Vista Favorite Links: FindeXer Vista Live Icon/Thumbnail and Metadata: Get More Thumbnail and Metadata on Xp Vista Viewer Pane and Search: Get Vista Explorer Preview Pane and Search on Xp Vista Command Prompt on Context Menu: Command Prompt PowerToy Vista New Window on Context Menu: Add New Window on Context Menu ORIGINAL VISTA APPLICATIONS: IE7: IE7 or IE8 WMP 11: WMP 11 with Vista WMP 11 Skin or Windows 7 WMP 12 Skin either Windows PhotoGallery: Windows Live Photo Gallery Windows Mail: Windows Live Mail Windows Calendar: Windows Live Mail or/and MS Works Calendar Windows Movie Maker: Windows Movie Maker with Vista Skin by fediaFedia Windows DVD Maker: Microsoft PhotoStory 3 with Sonic DVD Burning Plug In or Better to get Sonic RecordNow with/without DVD Studio or Nero Explorer DVD Burning: ISO powertoy and IMAPI V2 Windows Notepad, Paint, Calculator: Vista ones ported to Xp Windows Defender: Windows Defender for Windows Xp Windows Search: Windows Search 4.0 for Xp Windows Sidebar: Windows Sidebar ported to Xp by Ricktendo Windows Media Center: MCE 2005 or Windows Media Center for Xp with Vista Skin Windows Meeting Space: Just Net Meeting or Microsoft SharedView Tablet PC Applications: Snipping Tool: Vista Snipping Tool ported to Xp Sticky Notes: Sticky Notes ported to Xp Windows Journal: Windows Journal ported to Xp Windows Tablet PC Input Panel: Tablet PC Input Panel for Windows Xp Windows Vista Games: Vista Games ported to Xp DirectX10, .Net Framework 3.0, IMAPI V2 etc: They all have been ported to Windows Xp as well (read the list/google...) Etc. ===================================================================== - HOW TO DUAL OR TRIPLE BOOT XP, VISTA, WINDOWS 7 : http://lifehacker.com/5126781/how-to-dual-boot-windows-7-with-xp-or-vista and http://lifehacker.com/193474/hack-attack-how-to-triple+boot-windows-xp-vista-and-ubuntu - INSTALL XP ON SATA HARD DRIVE / HARD DISK : http://news.softpedia.com/news/Install-Windows-XP-On-SATA-Without-a-Floppy-F6-47807.shtml - Download (Collection) Free File Viewer Tools, Explorer Thumbnail Handlers, and Search Tools (Windows Search) for Windows All (98, ME, 2000, Xp, 2003, Vista, 2008, and maybe Windows 7): http://www.4shared.com/dir/16848775/c90f5dba/File_Viewers_Explorer_Thumbnail_Plug_Ins_and_Search_Tools_for_Xp_and_Vista.html - Xp "Ultimate" Project (Xp MCE / Media Center Edition 2005 and/or Xp Tablet PC 2005 into one OS): Download "The Concept of XP Ultimate Edition.pdf": http://www.4shared.com/file/134898335/c4a84645/The_Concept_of_XP_Ultimate_Edition.html 1) Xp to Xp MCE 2005 Transformation Pack: http://depositfiles.com/en/files/e36w3x9ja 2) Xp to Xp Tablet PC 2005 Transformation Pack: http://depositfiles.com/files/173n1c4m1 Download Vista / Windows 7 Icons for TIP, Journal, Sticky Notes, Inkball (XP Tablet PC Applications): http://www.4shared.com/file/131121973/3bdfa356/Vista_7_Icons_for_TIP_Journal_Inkball_Sticky_Notes.html - Microsoft UMPC TouchPack (for XP Tablet PC 2005): Just download here for free (MUI and English): http://www.4shared.com/file/110117421/26e78ca9/Microsoft_TouchPack_UMPC_Xp.html (MUI) and http://www.4shared.com/file/106202010/5e94d9a8/Microsoft_Touchpack_UMPC_Xp__English_.html (English) Still will keep updating this thread for XP users as long as i can...good luck anyway and long live XP!