Switching Windows XP to the Classic Style

The factory default Windows XP interface can be switched to the "Classic" (Windows 98) interface by tweaking settings in three Control Panels: Display, Folder Options, and Taskbar and Start Menu:

Display Control Panel Folder Options Control Panel Taskbar and Start Menu Control Panel

Windows XP Tuneup

We have new instructions here that describe how to tune and optimize Windows XP (Home and Professional) systems for the best performance.

Windows XP Boot Menu

We have new instructions here that describe how to setup Windows XP (Home and Professional) systems with a boot menu to select Normal or Safeboot.

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Use these tips at your own risk! They are not guaranteed to work for you.

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Display Control Panel

From the Themes tab select the "Windows Classic" theme:

Windows XP Display Properties Control Panel

From the Desktop tab, click the button marked "Customize Desktop". Restore these icons: My Computer, My Network Places, Internet Explorer, Recycle Bin, and My Documents:

Windows XP Restored Desktop Icons!

From the Appearance tab, select "Windows Classic style" for the Windows and buttons:

Windows XP Display Properties Control Panel

Folder Options Control Panel

From the General tab under Tasks, select "Use Windows classic folders":

Windows XP Folder Options Control Panel

Taskbar and Start Menu Control Panel

From the Start Menu tab, select "Classic Start menu":

Windows XP Taskbar and Start Menu Control Panel