First, download and install the desired theme from websites like Gratitude or any other relevant platforms. After that, you need to extract the downloaded file and rename it to match the folder name with the same name in C:Windows\Themes directory.
To apply the theme, simply open the "Display Properties" or go to the "Theme Options" tab under the "Display Settings". Here, select the desired theme and click on Apply.
If your Windows XP theme is not working as expected, it could be due to the fact that Microsoft has released three different themes for Windows XP, which are more attractive than previous versions. However, newer third-party software vendors have been creating increasingly stylish Windows XP themes, making these older ones less appealing.
Many users have tried to install various cool themes to customize their user interface but found that they cannot be applied because the Windows XP theme's compatibility with Uxtheme.dll has been restricted by Microsoft. This is where security certification comes into play. Essentially, before applying the theme, the Uxtheme.dll checks if the theme is approved by Microsoft. While this feature may seem unnecessary at first glance, it's designed to protect against malicious applications attempting to inject unauthorized code into the operating system.
In conclusion, although it might appear counterintuitive, ensuring the compatibility between your theme and the theme engine (in this case, Uxtheme.dll) can help avoid potential security risks associated with running themes that do not align with Microsoft's approval criteria. Always remember, when installing third-party themes, it's crucial to ensure that they are compatible with Windows XP's theme engine and are created by reputable developers.