How to Convert Windows to Look Like Vista 64 Bit Deluxe

A facelift for Windows XP

Upgrading to Windows Vista 64-Bit Deluxe be an uncomfortable process for the casual computer user. Certain Windows XP programs may not function properly and some applications that you love may no longer be available. If you love the GUI (Graphical User Inferface) of Microsoft Windows Vista but you don't wish to upgrade from XP, you can give your computer a facelift. There are many bitmaps, transformational software programs and applications that can be changed around to make your XP machine look and feel like Vista without the pesky upgrade.

Instructions

1. Create a System Restore point before changing any of your bitmaps and software to ensure that your computer will still run after its facelift. Click on "System Restore" from the All Programs menu, then "System Protection" and "OK" to make your Restore Point.

2. Download bitmaps, themes and AVI files to change the look of your computer without installing third-party software. Visit the Ask VG site and click on the "this link" to download all suggested files. There are many different sets of instructions for applying each visual change. For example, apply the VistaVG Ultimate Theme by clicking Start, Control Panel, Display Properties, Apply Theme and then selecting VistaVG from your Explorer menu.

3. Download third-party software like the BricoPack Vista Inspirat Ultmate 2. This program will customize many different features on your XP interface including your Start menu, icons, system dialogs and Control Panel to look like Vista 64-Bit Deluxe. Install and open the program and select which features you'd like to add.

4. Upgrade all of your Windows XP programs and applications to have Vista-like functions by visiting the Win Matrix site (See Resouces links below). This site is a veritable treasure trove of upgrades, listing over links to programs that can be upgraded to the look, feel and function of Windows Vista 64-Bit. For example, you can download an update of the important system program MSCONFIG.EXE that gives you the tool tabs found in the typical Vista version.

5. Restore your System Restore point if any of these changes causes your computer to crash or run improperly.

Tips & Warnings

• BricoPack Vista Inspirat Ultimate does not function properly with Windows XP 64-Bit edition.

References

• List of Most Vista Applications and Features for XP
• Make Use Of: 5 Tools to Make Windows XP Look Like Vista

Resources

• Ask VG: Transform XP into Vista without Customization Pack
• Crystal XP: BricoPack Vista Inspirat Ultimate