How to make Windows 7 look like XP

Anonymous
2010-12-31T03:44:28+00:00

We purchased a new laptop for our 73 year old father who was just getting used to Win XP.  He has asked if there is any way to make the interface look and work like XP?  So my question is:  is there any way to make the interface look and work like XP?

Brian

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Accessibility

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@CmdrKeene 90,631 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2011-01-13T19:43:52+00:00

If you want that same classic mode (the gray toolbars and such), that does exist in Windows 7.  Just right-click your desktop, choose Personalize, then scroll down and click "Windows Classic".

If this solves your issue, click the 'Propose as Answer' link below, and vote as helpful by clicking the green triangle to the lelft. Thanks!

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@CmdrKeene 90,631 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2010-12-31T14:01:43+00:00

For the most part it already does, because it was built from Windows XP.  For example, all windows still have the familiar _ and X buttons to minimize and close them.  You can also change the taskbar to show the words rather than just icons, or make other changes as you need.  While there's no "XP button", changes like this can get close.

If you are simply wanting the visual style to look like XP without changing any function, you can use a skinning program such as WindowBlinds by StarDock.

If this solves your issue, click the 'Propose as Answer' link below, and vote as helpful by clicking the green triangle to the lelft. Thanks!

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  1. Anonymous
    2012-12-14T15:15:11+00:00

    Right Click the Desktop then go to Personalize.

    From there you can select Windows 7 Basic or Windows Classic whichever you like.

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  2. @CmdrKeene 90,631 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2012-12-14T15:27:00+00:00

    Hi MS_User_since_1983,

    You can still do this.  I actually do this to make my desktop and a particular folder full of scripts/macros that I use frequently available on my desktop.  To do it, just right-click a blank spot, point to toolbars, then choose "New Toolbar".  Select the folder and hit OK and you'll be all set.  Here's what mine looks like:

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  3. Anonymous
    2012-12-18T02:17:24+00:00

    http://www.askvg.com/download-windows-xp-luna-theme-for-windows-7/

    I have used this site before for custom system themes. After a quick patch windows will allow custom themes. LUNA is a direct port of the Windows XP theme. ENJOY but dont forget to patch:

    http://www.askvg.com/how-to-install-use-custom-3rd-party-themes-in-windows-xp-vista-and-7/

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