Windows is all about appearances. Sure, Windows XP contains some cool new power-user tools, but for many the thrill is all about the new bubbly icons. If you want to look like a cool, early adopter of XP, but you don't want to shell out the big bucks, download a free theme that makes the classic Windows environment look like XP.

Easy way to use the theme.
The easiest way to put the Windows XP theme on your desktop is by first downloading a freeware tool called Desktop Architect.

Next install desktop architect.

Then download the WinXP theme and extract all the files to your default theme folder (try C:\Program Files\Plus!\Themes). Open Desktop Architect and browse to C:\Program Files\Plus!\Themes\Winxp and select your the Windows XP theme.

You can customize everything to get the full Windows XP look, or pick and choose the features you want.

You can also install the Windows XP theme if you have the Desktop Themes icon in your control panel.

Download the Windows XP theme

Wanna make Windows XP look more like the classic Windows environment? Read this tip.

Coming up: Windows isn't the only OS with a new look.