Back to the Windows Classic Style

I’ve become a fan of the XP user interface, or at least of a modified version of the XP interface. I’m also realistic enough to know that not everyone is going to share my viewpoint. For those who don’t, Microsoft made it possible to have a user interface that is virtually identical to previous Windows versions, or what is commonly known as the Windows Classic style. The following steps will take you back to familiar territory.

A Quick Three Step Process to Windows XP in Windows Classic Clothing
 

Step One

Right click on an open part of the desktop.
Click [Properties].
Select the [Themes] tab.
In the [Themes] drop down box select [Windows Classic].
Click [Apply] and [OK].

Step Two

Right click on the Start Button.
Click [Properties].
Select the [Start Menu] tab.
Select the radio button next to [Classic Start Menu].
Click [Apply] and [OK].

Step Three

Open Windows Explorer.
Select [Tools] and click [Folder Options...].
Select the [General] tab.
In the [Tasks] section, select the radio button next to [Use Windows Classic Folders].
Click [Apply] and [OK].

There you go. Windows Classic in all its glory with a few of the little enhancements from XP tossed in for good measure. With some creative tweaking you can eliminate most of those as well.

Accessing Desktop and Taskbar Settings | Themes Settings
Desktop Settings | Screensaver Settings
Appearance Settings | Settings
Start Menu | Taskbar | Windows Classic