StyleXP is a computer program designed to modify the graphical user interface of Windows XP. As of version 3.19 features include modifying themes, explorer bar, backgrounds, logon screens, icons, boot screens, transparency, cursors and screensavers.

History

Created by TGTSoft, StyleXP is an alternative to other skinning programs such as Stardock's WindowBlinds and Object Desktop.

How it works

StyleXP works by patching a DLL file named uxtheme.dll. Uxtheme.dll by default prevents users from installing themes that are not digitally signed by Microsoft. By patching this DLL, StyleXP can install themes that are not digitally signed. Earlier versions of the program patched the uxtheme.dll file on disk, while newer ones do so in memory.

Popularity

The program's popularity has risen in the last several years, with several sites opening up that provide free skins to the public. These skins have also become more popular after a patched uxtheme DLL file was released that does not require the user to purchase StyleXP to use the skins. The PantherG style applied to Windows XP

Windows Vista compatibility

Uninstalling StyleXP from a machine that has been upgraded to Windows Vista will cause most system icons to become corrupt. The solution is to delete the registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\Explorer\Shell Icons

The uninstaller blanks out the values, instead of deleting them. A clean install of Vista doesn't have the "Shell Icons" folder.

See KB 321964