The first and most popular of these options is Stardock’s WindowBlinds 6.This software isn’t free, but it allows you to convert .msstyles which are XP themes, to be able to be used on Vista. This is a great option for those who have just upgraded from XP to Vista and don’t care for the new Aero theme, or want to retain the look of their old desktop while having new features offered by Vista.

Another way to enable your system to run custom themes is to download the VistaGlazz program. The program is free and extremely simple to use. The program basically patches several DLL files which take out the necessary authentication required by Microsoft to run these free themes. However, if you have Vista Service Pack 1 Release Candidate, you should not download this program, as it will not work for you.

Once you’ve installed your method of choice, you can find new themes for Vista in several places around the web. The most popular place to download these themes is Deviant Art. There is a wide array of themes available to suit all tastes. Another popular place to obtain themes is the forums at Neowin.net. Themes are usually released here on a regular basis, so check back often. Once you’ve found the theme you want, you simply download the theme, place it in your Windows/Resources/Themes folder and then activate it. You’ll have a custom desktop appearance in no time, with little to no effort.