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
    2012-02-17T15:30:06+00:00

    I think the issue is the lost functionality - for example the lack of a functioning Start Menu. In all previous versions, the user could add desired programs and removed unneeded items.

    Another example, you can't press the left arrow - backup key to back up a step when browsing files and folders- you never get to your list of drives.

    Another example is this website where there is a Yes button to click if the answer is helpful but no "No" button.

    Why would you take away the My Computer explorer icon and puposely make it difficult for us to find our files or know where they are stored?

    Imagine if your banker pulled that on you? "Don't worry we know where your money is and we'll make sure it is safe but we can't tell you what bank (drive) we put it in."

    We don't want the cloud shoved down our throat.

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-11-01T01:28:51+00:00

    I feel things getting a little tense in here...

    Shawn B Keene....Thank you I also had the same question and my father with appreciate your solution!

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-10-31T00:26:18+00:00

    I apologize, you wrote:

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

    I mis-read your post. I will read a bit more carefully next time before replyng. I was looking for 'Properties".

    Thank you for your support.

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