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Step 1
Change the Windows XP desktop background. Open the Control Panel and select "Display Properties." Click on the Desktop tab and choose from the available background images. Or, use the "Browse" button to locate photos on your computer. Use the "Position" menu to set the background image as tilted, centered or stretched. Use the "Color" menu to set the background color. Click "Apply" to lock in your choices.
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Step 2
Use a screen saver. Click on the Screen Saver tab in the Display Properties window. Preview available screen savers in the drop-down list. Adjust the time of inactivity before the screen saver activates. Add a password for security. Click "Apply" to verify your settings.
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Step 3
Modify the Windows XP desktop color scheme. Use the Appearance tab on the Display Properties window to adjust the color scheme or font and button styles. Click "Apply" to save your changes.
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Step 4
Add shortcuts to frequently used files, folders, applications and network drives. Create a shortcut by right-clicking on the file and selecting "create shortcut." Drag and drop the shortcut to the desktop if needed.
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Step 5
Rearrange the icon and shortcuts on your desktop. Right-click anywhere in the open area of your desktop. Select "Arrange Icons by" and select a criteria. Use the "Align to Grid" option to toggle "snap to" positioning or free form positioning.
