Windows XP Theme Is Not Available in Remote Desktop Session

When you connect to a Windows XP-based computer by using the Remote Desktop Connection, the Windows XP theme (Luna) is not displayed as expected. The option to configure this theme is unavailable on the Display tab.

This behavior occurs if you initiate the Remote Desktop Connection with a color depth below 15-bit, or if you configured it to not to allow themes.

Before initiating the Remote Desktop Connection, set the color depth and experience settings. In the Remote Desktop Connection, change the color depth on the Display tab to 15-bit or greater, and click to select the Themes check box on the Experience tab. To do so:

1. Open Remote Desktop Connection: Click Start, click Programs, click Accessories, click Communications, and then click Remote Desktop Connection.
2. Click Options.
3. On the Display tab, click the appropriate color depth under Colors.
4. On the Experience tab, click to select the Themes check box.

This behavior is by design.