Issues with Applying New Themes in Windows XP

[Mike]

I can't apply any new themes on my Windows XP Pro. When I apply a new theme,
the following error occurs:

Error Loading theme
The theme could not be loaded because the theme service is not running. You
can turn the service on in the Computer Management Administrative Tool in the
Control Panel.

I went to computer management administrative tool. I started this service.
But I couldn't apply a new theme either. There was weird display and the
entire desktop turned black. I have to reinstall the Windows to fix this.
After the re-installation everything came back to normal, but I still
couldn't apply new themes. Please help me out. Why am I unable to apply
themes. and how do I fix this problem?

 

[Mike]

Never mind! I found the solution from a website. Below are the details:


Great news for all the Windows XP users (#) . Rafael
(http://www.withinwindows.com) has released the patched
uxtheme.dll (#) file for the final version of Windows XP SP3.
Uxtheme.dll by default prevents users from installing themes that are not
digitally signed by Microsoft (#) . By patching
this DLL, you can install all third party visual styles (.msstyles) that are
not digitally signed.
Replace this file and enjoy thousands of free visual styles!
Download Patched Uxtheme.dll: 6.0.2900.5512_EN.rar
(http://www.uploadjockey.com/download
/4588854/6.0.2900.5512_EN.rar) | Mirror
(http://www.mediafire.com/?zocpl3yslmb)
_____________________________
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.
Congratulatiuon you are now ready to use third-party visual styles.