What is uxtheme.dll?

[Evan]

There is a uxtheme.dll file mentioned in the guide. What is it? Do I need to install it? And do I have to turn off Windows File Protection beforehand?

Thanks

[b0r3d]

the origional uxtheme.dll that is supplied with windows, disallows you from using themes that arent released or signed by Microsoft.

Replacing this file, allows you to use windows themes created by anyone.

[Evan]

Thank you for the info...

The only extra themes I have seen available for the new XP interface, seem to require some additional programs to be installed, like StyleXP. Are there really new themes out there which will install on a stock WinXP installation and will change all the graphics in the UI?

Also, do I need to turn off system file protection to install the uxtheme.dll file?

[webmedic]

Um if you are trying to install it on a already installed system then <<spam>> has a patcher to patch it so you dont need to turn off file protection.

Otherwise yes grab that bad boy and stick it in

$OEM$/$$/system32

and

$OEM$/$$/system32/dllcache

this will cause it to be copied with no problems. Durring install.

[vcant]

if you have patched uxtheme.dll, you wont need StyleXP to install the visual styles.

you can just replace uxtheme.dll in safe mode, or if you have a patch program, it will replase uxtheme.dll and ask for reboot...

after you replaced uxtheme.dll just download visual styles (from themexp.org for example), unpack and click on *.msstyles file, it will apply new theme...