HOW TO: Use the Windows Classic Theme in Windows XP

This step-by-step article describes how to make your Microsoft Windows XP desktop look like the desktops in the following operating systems:

Use the Windows Classic Theme in Windows XP

If you want the Windows Classic desktop feel and functionality, you can change the desktop theme to the Windows Classic theme:

1. Right-click an empty space on the desktop, and then click Properties.
2. On the Themes tab, click Windows Classic in the Theme box.
3. Click OK.

Change the Windows XP Start Menu to the Classic Windows Theme

To change the Start menu to the classic Start menu:

1. In Control Panel, double-click Appearance and Themes.
2. Click Taskbar and Start Menu.
3. On the Start Menu tab, click Classic Start menu, and then click OK.