Change the look

Windows XP has its themes, but there is a lot more that can be done with the look and feel of the operating system. WindowBlinds from http://www.stardock.com is available as a free unlimited download, an enhanced version can be purchased for $USD19.95, or it can be purchased as part of a suite of tools for $USD49.95.

WindowBlinds describes itself as the ultimate GUI customization program. It allows users complete control over how Windows looks and feels. It's more than just eye candy though, user created "skins" can add extra functionality to Windows along with restrict what users can do with their windows if necessary. WindowBlinds is the ultimate way to take control over how Windows looks and feels.

For something of the Apple Macintosh look, pop over to http://www.mobydock.com and take a look at what they have to offer. MobyDock DX is a fully customizable freeware launchbar / taskbar program that allows you to control your applications and folders while displaying some cool mouse-over animations. It can check your POP mail account, displays thumbnails for the running applications, displays popup menus for your favorite media-player allowing to control it from the dock itself, as well as a functional Clock and Recycle Bin etc. The integrated Microsoft Messenger support, weather checker, auto-focus and several other features will help you to explore, interact and keep your system under control in a fast and accessible way.