StyleXP
| Developer(s) | TGTSoft |
|---|---|
| Stable release | 3.19 |
| Operating system | Windows XP |
| Type | OS Customization |
| License | Proprietary |
| Website | TGTSoft StyleXP |
StyleXP is a computer program designed to modify the graphical user interface of Windows XP. As of version 3.19 features include modifying themes, explorer bar, backgrounds, logon screens, icons, boot screens, transparency, cursors and screensavers.
History
Created by TGTSoft, StyleXP is an alternative to other skinning programs such as Stardock's WindowBlinds and Object Desktop.
How it works
StyleXP works by patching a DLL file named uxtheme.dll. Uxtheme.dll by default prevents users from installing themes that are not digitally signed by Microsoft. By patching this DLL, StyleXP can install themes that are not digitally signed. Earlier versions of the program patched the uxtheme.dll file on disk, while newer ones do so in memory.
Popularity
The program's popularity has risen in the last several years, with several sites opening up that provide free skins to the public. These skins have also become more popular after a free patched uxtheme DLL file (UXTheme Multi-Patcher) was released.
Windows Vista compatibility
Uninstalling StyleXP from a machine that has been upgraded to Windows Vista will cause most system icons to become corrupt. The solution is to delete the registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\Explorer\Shell Icons
The uninstaller blanks out the values, rather than deleting them. A clean install of Vista doesn't have the "Shell Icons" folder.[1]
StyleXP is not compatible with Windows Vista, but there is a manual way to replace three dll files (uxtheme.dll, shsvcs.dll and themeui.dll) to use un-signed custom visual styles in Windows Vista.
Patched UxTheme Files for Vista SP1
Patched UxTheme Files for Vista (No SP1)