How to change Windows XP Themes for SP3

So you want to be able to get some new lookin themes for windows XP without having to get the bloated theme packages.

Here is what you need to do:

Download a new UXTheme.dll file, there is a patched one available for Windows XP SP3. Direct Download Link

Also you might need to download 7z if you cant open RAR files.

Here is two methods of replacing the uxtheme.dll from the link above:

How To Replace Uxtheme.dll

1. First of all delete uxtheme.dll file from C:\Windows\system32\dllcache and C:\Windows\ServicePackFiles\i386

2. Navigate to C:\Windows\system32 and backup the original uxtheme.dll by renaming it or by copying it on your desktop.

3. Paste the patched or hacked uxtheme.dll (which you downloaded from here) to C:\Windows\system32.

* You should get a pop-up windows titled "Windows File Protection". Click on OK.

* You should then see a second Windows File Protection pop-up window asking you to insert your SP2 CD. Click on Cancel.

* You'll then get a third pop-up window asking you if you are sure you want to keep the unrecognized file. Click Yes.

* If you get another pop-us then ignore it and reboot your PC.

Second Method (Using Replacer)

1. Download Replacer and extract the content.

2. Run replacer.cmd. A black command prompt window should appear.

3. Browse to C:\Windows\system32 and find uxtheme.dll. Drag this file into the command prompt window. Press enter.

4. Drag in the unlocked (patched) uxtheme.dll into the command prompt window. Press enter.

5. Confirm the replacement and wait for Replacer to finish. Press any key when prompted.

6. Reboot.

So now you can download some sweet windows themes and install them by putting them in the C:\WINDOWS\Resources\Themes directory.

A Few nice ones are:

Clear Looks: Ported from Linux

SlanXPAquanox VS: Blue and Shiney

Have a browse through the deviantart category for windows themes and find one you like.