How to Restore Display Properties to the Desktop on Windows XP

Windows XP was an operating system released by Microsoft in October 2001. It was released in many different versions and variations that could be chosen by consumers, based on their own needs. One aspect of each version that was similar, however, was the level of customization that each user could use to personalize his computer. Among these options was the ability to change many aspects of the Desktop. However, it is possible to make so many changes that it becomes overwhelming and you simply want to start over and restore the default settings.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button in the lower left corner of your screen.

2. Select the "Control Panel" option.

3. Double-click the "Display" icon.

4. Click the "Themes" tab at the top of the window.

5. Click the drop-down menu under "Theme:" and select the "Windows XP" option.

6. Click the "Apply" button at the bottom of the window, then wait for your display properties to be restored to their default settings.

Tips & Warnings

• If many of the icons and characteristics of your Desktop are missing, then one of your Windows processes may have stopped. Press "Ctrl," "Alt" and "Delete" and open the Task Manager, then select the "Processes" tab and end the "explorer.exe" process. Click the "Applications" tab, then the "New Task" button and type "explorer.exe" to restore your previous settings.

References

• The Elder Geek.com: Configuring the Windows XP Desktop
• Microsoft.com: Make Windows Look the Way You Want