Windows 7 Customization Basics
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 by Island Dog | Discussion: OS Customization
I have been helping some people on the Microsoft forums lately with issues resulting from using registry hacks to change basic things in Windows 7 like the logon screen. The good thing about customizing Windows is just that – you can customize as much or as little as you like. However, be careful when using registry hacks to change things, you might just end up hosing your system.
If you are ready to step in the customization world for Windows 7, then follow these tips to do it safely and effectively!
Change the Windows 7 logon
When you want to change the background of the logon screen for Win7, don’t worry about registry hacks. Just head over and download the free LogonStudio app. With LogonStudio you can change the background to one of the included images, use your own just by dragging and dropping, or download thousands from WinCustomize.com.
Replace the Default Cursor
The default Windows cursors are pretty boring, nothing special to see here. CursorFX is another application that can change the default cursor into something really special. There are all types of custom cursors available with some wild animations, cool effects, and more. You can even find some that emulate other operating systems. CursorFX is free as well, but a Plus version is available with even more features!
Get a New Skin and Theme
Windows 7 has the ability to download themes for use, but they are very limited and really don’t change much but the color. If you want to give Windows a real custom look, come check out WindowBlinds. WindowBlinds gives you the ability to change the look of the entire user interface in Windows with literally thousands of skins and themes available for download to use. WindowBlinds 7 also allows you to “skin” Aero which you can apply textures and other effects to enhance Aero on your own. A free trial is available, and the full version is just $20.
Reply #2 Wednesday, September 15, 2010 6:56 PM
The killer app is Fences. Surprised it wasn't mentioned.
Reply #3 Wednesday, September 15, 2010 7:21 PM
Just a suggestion.... You can also change things a good deal using Windowblinds and the color/transparency and texture options along with the themes MS supplies through the "Personalize" option by right clicking on the desktop, or by going to:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/downloads/personalize
The Windowblinds option is however, the best!
Reply #4 Wednesday, September 15, 2010 8:25 PM
I mangled an early beta of 7 trying to get rid of the shortcut arrow overlays using various 'hacks'. Half the time the icons looked like they were viewed through a snow storm.....all white. [lost the arrows.....also lost the icon graphics]...
Reply #5 Wednesday, September 15, 2010 11:56 PM
Impulse is required to use Stardock products. It says so in the requirements statement. Please be aware that Impulse is required. 
Wiz was dying to say it, I'll bet...lol. 
This has been a public service announcement for the Coalition for Better Desktops Unlimited.
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Reply #1 Wednesday, September 15, 2010 11:22 AM
This is why I became a fan of Stardock software. No registry hacks, which I would probably screw up, easy to use even for beginners or those new to desktop customizing(me) and any changes you make can be undone easily.
A big plus:The trials give users a chance to see for themselves how it will look on their system before shelling out any cash, but Please read the system requirements.
Recently,I've become a fan of another customizing app as well but it was Stardock that made me comfortable using such programs.
I have to agree with the boring "default" cursor comment, and Win7 themepacks give you some great wallpapers but not much beyond that.