List of Most Vista Applications and Features for Xp

(UPDATED) List of Most Vista Applications, Tools, and Features for Xp / 2003
(MS and Third Parties, Staying Up to Date)

Transform Windows XP into Windows Vista in Both GUI and Usability / Functionality, Anyway Long Live XP! :
Just Make Windows XP Stay Up to date after Vista and Windows 7 Coming out and until the M$ support ends (2014), By Creating Your Custom Windows XP "Ultimate" or "Special Edition" Just By Using Some Skins, Applications, and Tweaks Etc For Free (While Even Some of Them May Still Be Working on Vista and Windows 7 Too As Well Then...)..


(Courtesy: Wiki)

GET VISTA/7 CHESS TITANS GAME ON XP

IMPORTANT NOTE: TO GET EVEN MORE ADDITIONAL WINDOWS 7-ONLY APPLICATIONS, TOOLS, AND FEATURES FOR WINDOWS XP, THEN YOU CAN ALSO PLEASE VISIT HERE (VERY RECOMMENDED): http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?/topic/21246-windows-7-applications-tools-and-features-for-xp-simple/

1. Official Vista to Xp applications from Microsoft (Down level)->Credits to MS :

A. Vista WPF and WCF (Codename: Avalon and Indigo)-> It's .Net Framework 3.0/3.5 for Xp now (as most Vista apps/OS based on new .Net Framework) -> required to install most future Vista-only apps to Xp!  (included 3rd parties i.e. Yahoo Messenger for Vista etc): -> Very recommended
Download .Net framework 3.5:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

- Some/Other Vista built In binaries/dependencies for Xp (please also see about Alky in this thread):
PS: They might also be needed by some Vista apps that ported to Xp:

* Visual C++ 2005 Redistributable Packages:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* Windows Imaging Components (already built in both Vista and Xp SP3) required for some apps/features i.e Windows Live PhotoGallery and Pro Photo Tools in Xp Sp2:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* Updated IMAPI V2 for Xp (Vista DVD Burning API for Xp) (same link with below):
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/932716

* MSXML 6.0 SP1:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* Wireless LAN API (built in Vista and 2003):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* Windows Installer 4.5:
New Windows Installer for down level OS (Xp/2003) as well as new .Net Framework 3.0-> Recommended:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* Windows Powershell: -> as it's built in Windows Server 2008 Longhorn/Windows 7 (as optional component), Powershell is new generation command line shell and scripting language (for advanced users/Professional only):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003...l/download.mspx

* Windows Script 5.7:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

* XML Lite (See also MSXML below):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

B. Internet Explorer 8 (IE8) for Windows Xp: -> Very Recommended/Critical Update since update IE for safety and reliablity:
Download IE8

C. Windows Media Player 11 (WMP 11)  for Windows Xp:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsme...11/default.aspx

D. Windows Defender for Windows Xp :
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

Another Anti-Malware Stuff from MS (updated once a month/monthly) for Xp and Vista, 2003, 2008 (Also supports Windows 2000):
Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

E. Windows Search 4.0 (Original Vista Desktop Search engine for Windows Xp) :
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/...ch/default.mspx

F. Windows Cardspace (part of Vista and .Net framework 3.0/3.5 or higher for Windows Xp). You can get it on Xp by installing .Net Framework 3.0 (. net Framework 3.5 has included better/updated version):
Download .net framework 3.5:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

G. Updated MSCONFIG.EXE for Windows Xp (with tools tab like built in Vista version):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

H. Updated Microsoft Management Console (MMC) 3.0 for Windows Xp (as well as MMC 3.0 built in Vista):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

2. Some Vista features Above May Also have been parts of Windows Xp SP3 and updates :
- I.e. MMC 3.0 (Link above), -Network Access Protection, -Windows Imaging Components, New WPA (All Built in Vista) etc. If you prefer to stick with SP2, at least please always update your Windows->Recommended

A. Download Windows Xp SP3 - (better through Windows Update):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

3. Vista new fonts for Xp (official/legal Microsoft Installers!): Segoe UI, Cambria, Colibri, Corbel etc

A. Segoe UI font installer for Windows Xp (also apart of Windows Live Wave 3 installers):
http://download.microsoft.com/download/7/6...N/SegoeFont.cab

B. Office 2007 Compatibility Pack for Word, Excel and Powerpoint Formats (install this to get more Vista fonts: Calibri, Cambria, Candara, Consolas, Constantia, Corbel etc):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en


4. Some Microsoft Xp Powertoys/apps have already been included in Vista as new standard OS GUI/features, finally:

- Download all Xp Powertoys (final/RTM) here:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/Downloa...ppowertoys.mspx

- Download all cancelled Xp PowerToys here + other old useful apps for Windows/Xp:
http://depositfiles.com/en/files/1o2gt6mpp & http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm

A. Open Command Window Here and Open in new Window, open file location etc on context menu extension for Windows Xp (Vista only context menu items for XP):
http://www.4shared.com/file/128294377/ae8d1459/Vista-only_Context_Menu_items_for_XP.html and Command Window PowerToy: http://download.microsoft.com/download/whi...wertoySetup.exe

B. Clear Type Tuner for Windows Xp (built in Vista):
http://download.microsoft.com/download/b/7...85aad/setup.exe

C. Alt+Tab Thumbnail Preview for Windows Xp (TaskSwitch)-(built in Vista):
http://download.microsoft.com/download/whi...wertoySetup.exe

E. Microsoft Time Zone Premium-free (The function is built in Vista Clock):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

F. Microsoft PhotoStory 3 for Windows (Some functions are built in Vista PhotoGallery, Slideshow, and Windows DVD Maker): -> You can burn dvd using DVD plugin below like Xp MCE, Movie Maker, and Vista DVD Maker
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/d...ry/default.mspx

You can also create slideshows by using: [/b]WindowsLive PhotoGallery (link below) as well as built in Xp feature.

Other apps for SlideShow (resemble one in Vista):

- MS PowerToy CD Slide Show Generator:
Burn Slideshow in CD (for Xp and Windows 9x):
http://download.microsoft.com/download/whi...wertoySetup.exe

- HTML Slideshow:
create HTML slideshow from images and publish it:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/f/c...deShowSetup.exe

Moving Desktop ("poor" version of "DreamScene"?). Though not similar, you can get some "Motion Desktop (Allows you to switch the background image periodically.) by installing this cancelled PowerToy :

- Background Switcher as part of (cancelled) Xp PowerToy 1.0. only 41 Kb:
MD5:A20BD0CB04047F9E6C9A9246F3080A7C
http://www.4shared.com/file/66756604/72be6...oys_for_Xp.html

G. Microsoft Digital Right Management (DRM). I know it's crap, (included in WMP 10-11 in Vista and Xp) :
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

H. XPS Viewer (Built in Vista) you will also get this by installing IE7/IE8 for Windows Xp (Link above).
Also it's recommended to install/update if you have not:
MSXML 6.0 for Xp and updates
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

- Microsoft XML Paper Specification Essentials Pack:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=B8DCFFDD-E3A5-44CC-8021-7649FD37FFEE&displaylang=en

I. Network Diagnostics Tool for Xp (the down level version of Vista one):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;DisplayLang=en

J. Link Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD) Responder (built in Vista):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

K. SyncToy and Microsoft ActiveSync (Built in Vista Windows Mobile Device Center and Synchronization):

- SyncToy 2.0:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

- Microsoft ActiveSync 4.5:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/en-...vice-synch.mspx

L. Vista CD Autoplay Manager applet (previously part of TweakUI for Windows Xp):

- Download TweakUI powertoy for Xp Here:-> Has many other features, very recommended for all Xp!
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/Downloa...ppowertoys.mspx

Add Tweak UI applet to Control Panel:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_addtweak.htm

K. Vista Speech Recognition for Xp (convert speech to text, very cool and useful Vista feature:
http://thirderror.com/speech-recognition-for-xp/
- Download Vista Speech Recognition Control Panel Applet for Xp: http://www.4shared.com/file/72957425/fbcd4...let_for_Xp.html

Download Microsoft Speech SDK 5.1 (please also visit the link above for more information):
Note:
Name of the Speech SDK file/installer: SpeechSDK51.exe
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en and
http://www.microsoft.com/MSagent/downloads/user.aspx

- Vista Voice Recognition to Command in Your Xp PC: e-Speaking: (May need MS Speech 5.1 SDK)
http://www.e-speaking.com/

L. Other MS Applications that resemble Vista features (Vista Meeting Space for Xp):

- Microsoft Shared View:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

- Live Meeting 2007:
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/help/HA101733831033.aspx

M. Windows Steady State for Xp:
Some features are included in Vista User Account and Vista Parental Control + Many features:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

- Windows Live Family Safety - some Vista (internet) parental control features for Xp:
http://www.microsoft.com/protect/products/...milysafety.mspx
- And/or use ClockLock: http://download.cnet.com/ClockLock/3000-2132_4-10540128.html (Note: .Net Framework is required)

N. Windows Easy Transfer:
Transfer data from your computer to another Vista based computer (Built in Vista):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

O. Microsoft Virtual PC 2007:
Create virtual PC in Xp OS for free. This feature already built in Vista Ultimate/Business (optional):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

P. QuickView and Folder Content Previewer ported to Windows Xp (Additional):
The best and simplest original Microsoft file viewer in Windows 9X fixed and ported back to Xp and even Vista by me:   . You can use it as companion with Vista Explorer previewer (preview pane) as context menu viewer:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19748


5. Some MS Windows Live Applications as successors/replacements for standard Vista app  (Credit to MS and Live Team) :
You can get them on Xp: Windows Live Mail (successor of Windows Mail), Windows Live PhotoGallery (successor of Windows PhotoGallery), and Windows Live Messenger (successor of Windows/MSN Messenger) + some other Windows Live applications: http://download.live.com/

Note:
- You can also get offline installers of latest live apps above (Windows Live 2008 + 2009 final version - offline installers) here (Credits to MS, Live Team, Amirz) :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19984

6. Original Vista applications that ported to Xp as well (Credits to MS and these people, thx alot for their hard work! ) - Some of them also require Alky and/or some dependencies - prerequisites Links above :

- Vista new APIs (Application Programming Interface) in Xp:
Some Vista apps that ported to Xp may need this well-known binary installer as well: Alky (formerly VAIOXp)-> Implementing Vista only APIs in down level OS such as Xp and 2003:

Visit the Website FYI and Download Alky for Xp and 2003 fromVistatoXp :
http://www.fromvistatoxp.com/

A. Original Windows Sidebar ported to Xp/2003 (Credit to Rafael, Zoronax, Alky team, Ricktendo) :
http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=1442

Note:
Sidebar Requires: IE7, WMP 11, .Net Framework 3.0, MSXML 6.0, WLAN API hotfix, C++ Redistributable package.

B. Windows Vista Games (Beta) + Vista Games Explorer for Xp (Credit to Raphael, Jonny) :
http://jonnyw1989.wordpress.com/2007/01/31...-for-xp-update/

Download all latest updated Vista / Windows 7 games for XP here: http://www.4shared.com/dir/14281223/d52c5ee5/All_Vista_Games_For_Xp.html

- Download latest fixed versions of all Vista Games beta and RTM for Xp: Wincert FTP: http://www.hr-host.com/wincert/Amirz/Vista...aller_(All).zip and/or also 4shared: http://www.4shared.com/dir/14281223/d52c5e...mes_For_Xp.html
(Included Freecell, Mahjong/Shanghai, Solitaire, Spider Solitaire, Hearts, Purble Place, Mineweesper, Inkball etc)...   Note: If you can't download FTP link version, then you should be able to download from the same link on my similar thread on Wincert HERE (don't worry you're not required to register/log in there, but again just visit my similar thread there, just find the same sentence/download link). Or alternative download on 4shared link above as usual (similar games but as separated downloads -> recommended too).  

- Chess Titans for XP : http://www.4shared.com/file/KgAuJSze/Chess_Titans_game_for_XP_All.html or
http://depositfiles.com/files/fcv2ewok6
- Mahjong Titans for XP : http://www.4shared.com/file/-Alu9YpR/Mahjong_Titans_game_for_XP.html

- Vista Chess (Substitute) for Xp/Linux: Brutal Chess (Thx to fediaFedia):

Download Brutal Chess Installer (Windows, Linux): ->
http://sourceforge.net/projects/brutalchess
Portable version here: http://www.4shared.com/file/67840613/cf7e8...e_Portable.html

- Vista Games Explorer (credits to Rakshit) -> Links to all Vista Games for Xp above:
http://rakshits.wordpress.com/2007/06/24/v...xplorer-for-xp/

C. Some Windows Vista Applications (NotePad, Paint, Calculator) for Xp (Credit to Rafael, Zoronax, Alky team, Ricktendo) :
http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=682

- Alternative: Vista (Skinned) NotePad, Paint, Calculator for Xp:
MD 5: 9F0D9CF10A7721CBEF51B59B31B0FA17
http://www.4shared.com/file/66763214/6947f...cessories_.html

Note: They all have been included in most Vista Transformation packs (VTP, Bricopack, VistaMizer etc) with more apps.

D. Windows Vista Screensavers for Xp (Aurora, Mistify, Bubble, Ribbons) (Credit to Rafael, Timbertide WinMatrix) :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12202
- Download all Vista RTM version screensavers (Alky): http://www.4shared.com/file/92814596/b9116...gy__for_Xp.html
- Other Vista Screensavers for Xp : http://www.4shared.com/file/69333606/3c62b...creensaver.html

- New: Windows Logo Screensaver Vista - Credits to jeremyddual-Deviantart:
http://jeremyddual.deviantart.com/art/Windows-Logo-Screensaver-Vista-97710548

E. Windows Vista Snipping Tool, Inkball, Sticky Notes, Texas Hold'Em for Xp (Vista TPC & Ultimate extra) (Credit to Rafael, Zoronax, Alky team, Amirz) :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19718

F. Windows Journal for Xp (Credits to Raphael, Amirz) :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19894

G. Windows Mail for Xp (Credits to Alky team, Cihan AeroXP) :
Edit: Don't know, but what's different with OE (look)? I think Windows Live Mail is much better:
http://www.aeroxp.org/board/index.php?showtopic=9541
- Download Windows Mail for Xp (credits to Cihan): http://www.4shared.com/file/90064563/870fc...ail_for_Xp.html

H. Windows Vista Movie Maker for Xp:
:Vista MM Skin (Resource) for Xp - ready to use) - Credits to MS and fediaFedia for this! (you can also visit previous thread about it on WinMatrix by fediaFedia here):
Download original Vista Movie Maker 2.6 "ported" to Xp - MM files:
http://www.4shared.com/file/64569368/9b981..._26_for_Xp.html

Note:
- MS official download link for Vista MM 2.6 installer & information (Note: This official installer from MS can't be installed on Xp) :

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

- You can also enhance both Windows Movie Maker 2.6 and 2.5/2.1 for Xp with some powertoys i.e:
Windows Movie Maker 2 Winter Fun Pack 2003:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloa.../mmfunpack.mspx

or Just browse in MS Website...

I. Vista DirectX 10 "ported" to Xp:

Alky DirectX 10 Compatibility Libraries Preview (discontinued) :
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Programming/C...Libraries.shtml

-Vista or Windows 7 style Help and Support application for XP: Make XP Help and Support Center application like Vista or Windows 7 (Windows Help and Support):
http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/XP-Help-and-Support-Mod-144830894 or
http://www.4shared.com/file/127541912/a129b654/Vista_like_Help_and_Support_application_for_XP.html

- Vista or Windows 7 Common Open and Save Dialog Box for XP (skinned): Make common XP open and save dialog box like the one in Vista or Windows 7 (some icons or GUI elements, my places editor...) by patching comctl32.dll both version 5 and 6 in XP:
Screenshot: http://img341.imageshack.us/i/commonvistaorwindows7op.jpg/
Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/163111871/4ccccdd0/Common_Vista_or_Windows_7_Open.html
Other related info etc: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Great-Windows-Explorer-Tools-142913425

J. Make Xp better to play some games and multimedia:
DirectX 10 final version by KM-Software + Alky - complete, 13,7 Mb:
http://www.4shared.com/file/95529018/5c488...ete-Final_.html

Also don't forget to still always update your DirectX and DirectX 9 redistributable version by visiting Microsoft/Windows Update etc!
To check/see DirectX version on Xp: (after installing DX 10 above) Start menu > Run > Type "dxdiag" (Without quotes).

DirectX Redistributable Package (August 2008):
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...;displaylang=en

7. Vista Media Center for Xp: Windows Media Center Installer for Xp Pro/Home/Tablet and Server 2003 SP2/SP3 and Server 2003 and Vista / Windows 7 Media Center Skin (Resource) for XP MCE 2005 (Make XP Media Center like Vista / Windows 7) + guides for transforming XP Pro / Home to XP MCE 2005 for free etc:  
Visit my Thread: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552

- Newest: The New Vista / Windows 7 style Media Center Resource Skin for XP MCE 2005 (XP Media Center 2010) by Ricktendo64, full credits to him:
http://ricktendo64.deviantart.com/art/XP-Media-Center-2010-147661074

If you already have Windows Xp MCE 2005 OS installed, then what you only need is to download this Vista Skin for Xp MCE 2005 (to make Xp Media Center look like Vista all the way!):
http://www.4shared.com/file/83004700/39da0...p_MCE_2005.html

- Guide (Converting Xp Pro/Home to Xp MCE 2005 OS): TheGreenButton: Installing Media Center 2005 on WinXP Home or Pro and avoiding a clean install:
credits to tmksnyder, TheGreenButton :
http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/thread/18937.aspx

- Microsoft PowerToys for Windows Media Center 2005 (only for original Xp MCE 2005):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloa...epowertoys.mspx

Xp To Xp MCE 2005 Convertor Credits to Orbit30, (254 Mb) included prerequisites frameworks and Update Rollup 2.
(You still need Bart PE disk/load hive function from another OS though to change MCE registry installed = 1 later)
http://skitechnology.pointclark.net/downlo...E_Installer.rar.

8. Built in Xp Equivalent (down level) tools of Vista ones (different names with same function):

A. Windows Meeting Space -> Net Meeting in Xp (also all Windows since 95, except Vista) or NetMeeting +Windows Messenger:
OK, Meeting Space is a Vista huge update, but most people still use Xp NetMeeting:

- To create shortcut and use Xp NetMeeting at first time:
By default, no shortcut is automatically created for NetMeeting on XP -- to run NetMeeting ( and also configure the program shortcut), just go to Start Menu - > Run -> type "conf.exe" (without quotes) -> OK

Again, as alternatives you can also use Microsoft Shared View or Office Live Meeting (See link above)

B. Windows Mail -> Outlook Express in Xp (Windows Mail is only skinned OE)

C. Windows DVD Maker:
Xp (and also Vista) actually has built in CD burning capability in Explorer to burn any data without using any 3rd party (licensed from Sonic/Roxio technology). However most Xp MCE 2005 (OEM) has Sonic DVD and Record Now for Media Center and Movie Maker that actually better than Vista DVD Maker etc:

- How to burn CD in Windows XP without any software:
http://minerva.stkate.edu/ithelpguides.nsf...rerforWindowsXP

- How to burn ISO image in Windows Xp and download ISO Recorder PowerToy:
http://www.petri.co.il/how_to_write_iso_files_to_cd.htm

- Download the Image Mastering API v2.0 (IMAPIv2.0) for Windows XP:
Extend Vista 0nly support DVD to XP:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/932716

- One of best Vista IMAPI V2 Implementation for Xp:

XP Vista Folder Burn:
http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/...lder-Burn.shtml

D. Windows Firewall in Vista for Xp:
Vista firewall is better than Xp SP2 one (Vista Firewall filters both incoming and outgoing network traffic.). But in most circumstances it's still good enough, especially if you have P2P. It's better if you have a good antivirus/security suite/3rd party firewall (see below). You can also try/use Windows Live One Care Herefrom Microsoft Windows Live although i personally think other 3rd party tools below (AVG, McAfee, Kaspersky, etc) are still much better...

E. Vista Tablet PC for Xp (Link above):
Vista Tablet PC apps also available in Xp Tablet PC:Windows Journal, Inkball, Sticky Notes, Snipping Tool. All of them (Vista Snipping Tool, Inkball etc) have been Updated and ported to all Xp versions (their links above). Tablet PC Input Panel installer has already been available for all Xp Editions (Pro, Home, MCE):

- Tablet PC Input Panel for Xp Pro, Home, MCE like Vista and Xp Tablet PC (Installer, uninstallable):
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21199

- Tablet PC only Apps (PowerToys, Experience pack etc) ported to Normal Xp.
Just visit may thread on WinMatrix here (Maybe they are not parts of Vista, but still fun n' cool for me):
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19910

F. Some remaining apps/Tools (Notepad, Wordpad, Disk Clean Up etc) are actually same (not much different) with Xp in Vista. But some of them have also been ported to Xp (Notepad, Paint, Calculator - with their "alternatives"/skinned apps. see link above).

- Enable Status Bar in Xp Notepad (Like Vista):
Just simply download the vbs file to enable Status Bar in Xp Notepad:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits...adstatusbar.vbs

G. Windows Update Vista (Offline) for Xp:
Windows Update in vista is a huge update since it's offline application instead of IE browser. To get it in Xp, just use New AutoPatcher Updater with same behavior/function (it works on both Xp and Vista):

- AutoPatcher Updater:
http://www.autopatcher.com/downloads/

H. Vista AutoDefrag Feature:
Not like Xp, Vista has autodefragmentor feature. You can still get the feature manually in Xp as "down level" one though not as well as Vista without installing any software (you can still use better some 3rd party tools though):

- Scheduled disk defragmentation in Windows Xp: Credits to Chris Rathjen,
http://blogs.msdn.com/crathjen/archive/200.../14/576448.aspx

I. Vista Windows Fax and Scan for Xp:

- Faxing in Windows Xp:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/s...2october21.mspx

- Microsoft: Use Xp to scan and fax:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/s...intfaxscan.mspx

9. Windows Calendar for Xp (Best Offline Calendar Replacement from Microsoft):
Download Microsoft Works Calendar 9 Stand Alone Installer (The Best Replacement for Windows Calendar in Xp so far from MS)
Works on both Xp and Vista. Again, you need .Net Framework 2.0 or higher before installing (Xp only) only about 2,8 Mb !:
MD5 : 9865B60186D53F5F177CAD9DAEC025B2
http://www.4shared.com/file/64127170/112eb..._Installer.html

- Windows Live Mail 2009 has already included calendar feature like Windows Calendar, athough it still based on online calendar (Live) database but on desktop app. (Live Mail=still online based calendar but on a desktop app, while Works Calendar is the 100% offline based calendar). It would be better if you also have Outlook 2007 though or plus Mozilla Thunderbird: http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/thunderbird/ .
Download Windows Live Mail 2009 final version here: http://download.live.com/wlmail or visit my thread for offline installers: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19984

10. Skins - Vista GUI for Microsoft Applications:
(Some from the best resource ever as well: "Xp to Vista Tutorial" by fediaFedia-Credits to fediaFedia WinMatrix/Deviantart. Thx alot mate!
http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Windo...torial-59987691

A. Vista GUI for WMP 11 in Xp (Credits to Pierdelp) :
http://pierdelp.deviantart.com/art/WMP11-S...-XP-fr-52531261

B. Vista / Windows 7 GUI for Windows Xp Media Center 2005:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=22552

C. Vista GUI for Windows Xp Movie Maker (Credits to fediaFedia WinMatrix Deviantart) :
http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Vista...65507?offset=10

D. Original Vista Wallpapers, Music, Videos, MCE recorded TV files etc for Xp:
http://www.4shared.com/dir/15132099/900f5d...os__for_Xp.html

E. Original Vista apps Icons for Xp (Credits to fediaFedia WinMatrix Deviantart) :
http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/20-Vi...co-png-59907934

F. Vista Sounds + Cursor for Xp (Credits to Joshoon) :
http://joshoon.deviantart.com/art/Vista-Fi...ursors-44430059

G. Original Vista User Account Pictures for Xp (Credits to joshu4) :
http://joshu4.deviantart.com/art/Vista-acc...for-XP-71132548

H. Vista Cursor for Xp - Credits to fabiano80-WinMatrix
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11302

I. Vista Sounds for Xp - Credits to ~joshoon-Deviantart:
http://joshoon.deviantart.com/art/Vista-Fi...ursors-44430059

- Vista Ultimate Extra : Vista Ultimate Glass, Pearl, And Tinker Sounds Installer For XP (all Windows versions):
MD5: D7FAB293D3060ED53EB76D0463B95B73 , 12,48 mB:
http://www.4shared.com/file/67526011/33482...nds_For_XP.html

J. Windows Picture and Fax Viewer for Xp (Vista Style) -credits to fediaFedia-WinMatrix/Deviantart:

Vista Style Task Manager for Xp and Vista (Blue)-credits to Lsdmeasap-Keznews :
http://stevejobs.blogs.keznews.com/2007/06...r-xp-and-vista/

11. Some Vista Like Skin/VS for Xp (Official black ones, From MS):

A. MS Zune:
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhan...une-Theme.shtml

B. Royal Noir:
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhan...oir-Theme.shtml

C. Royal (MCE, Blue):
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhan...for-WinXP.shtml

D. Xp Embedded (Blue) Thx to Vishal Gupta and WinMatrix:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=20401

E. Extra: The best Vista Skin for XP Ever: Vista Xp by Kol (Credits to him):
http://www.4shared.com/file/66166941/89880..._Xp_by_KOL.html

- WinMatrix Visual Styles and themes (Also please visit other great forums on WinMatrix.com):
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showforum=57

12. Very Recommended: The Best Tutorial About Transforming Xp to Vista, Ever!:
(Thx alot to my Best Friends and Gurus: fediaFedia and Vishal Gupta for their kind permissions, you guys rock!) :

A. Xp to Vista Tutorial by fediaFedia Deviantart/WinMatrix, credits to him:
http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Windo...torial-59987691
Added: Make Firefox like IE7 (as a loyal FF user, thx alot fediaFedia for this): http://fediafedia.deviantart.com/art/Firef...torial-71478905

B. Transform Windows XP into Windows Vista (without any 3rd party software) by Vishal Gupta, WinMatrix/Deviantart, MS-MVP, etc, credits to him:
http://www.askvg.com/transform-your-window...omization-pack/

C. Explore all about Windows Xp Customizations (Thanks to WinMatrix) -> Best and recommended:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showforum=3

13. Some Xp to Vista Transformation Packs :
"You can transform Xp to Vista without installing any pack like them" (Manually). However, in some cases they can still be useful (Especially to "common" people) as long as you select only components you need when installing them i.e. Icon only etc...

A. Vista Transformation Pack/VTP (only future 9.0 very compatible with Xp SP3) thx to WindowsX:
(To me personally, the best VTP is only 6.0 (only for Xp SP2)->Google):
http://www.jcxp.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=23824

C. BricoPack Vista Inspirate 2.0 Ultimate (Compatible with Xp SP3):
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.130.htm

D. VistaMizer (Not rather compatible with Xp SP3):
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhan...istaMizer.shtml

14. Vista Features and functions :

A. Vista Applications (Ports), Tools, and Games for Xp (IE7, WMP11, Mail etc) -> See Above

B. Windows Shell

- BootScreen:

Stardock Bootskin (free):
http://www.stardock.com/products/bootskin/

TuneUp Styler (part of Tuneup Utilities - Shareware) so many functions-> My Choice:
http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/

- Get XP Boot Screen and Hibernate Screen with new Vista/Windows 7 Flag (that replaces the old XP style flag) by AMIRZ/AMIRSYAHRANI, Deviantart + Tutorial, logon screen, etc:
http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/XP-Boot-Screen-Vista-7-Flag-171766090

Change XP BootScreen, Logon Screen, and also Hibernate Screen!:
http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Hibernate-Screen-on-XP-171307647
http://www.4shared.com/file/128810473/b2263935/VistaXP_Ultimate_Boot__LogonScreens_etc.html

- Change XP BootScreen, Logon Screen, and also Hibernate Screen completely!:
http://www.4shared.com/file/128810473/b2263935/VistaXP_Ultimate_Boot__LogonScreens_etc.html

- New Hibernate Screen + Boot Screen on XP with new Vista/Seven style flag instead of old XP one - by Amirz A.K.A AMIRSYAHRANI, Deviantart (credits to him):
http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Hibernate-Screen-on-XP-171307647

- Logon Screen :

Stardock Logon Studio (free) change logon screen:
http://www.stardock.com/products/logonstudio/

TuneUp Styler (part of Tuneup Utilities - Shareware) so many functions-> My Choice:
http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/

- Theme:

Uxtheme Patch (Credits to Raphael, Liskiller WinMatrix -Free) :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=18059

TuneUp Styler (part of Tuneup Utilities - Shareware) so many functions-> My Choice:
http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/

- Icon (Packer):

Stardock Icon Packager (shareware):
http://www.stardock.com/products/iconpackager/

TuneUp Styler (part of Tuneup Utilities - Shareware) so many functions-> My Choice:
http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/

Vista Drive Icon for XP:
Changes the drive icons shown in Windows "My Computer", to a nearly Vista drive icon, with "measure"-> My choice:
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhan...rive-Icon.shtml
- Download the best version of Vista Drive Icon for XP here: http://www.4shared.com/file/209516526/fad32fc6/Vista_Drive_Icon_for_XP__Best_.html

C. Vista Desktop Window Manager in Xp (DWM):

- Transparency and Shadow etc (also animation):

Window Blinds 6 (shareware) for blurred Vista Skin and best skinning engine etc:
http://www.stardock.com/products/windowblinds/

Window FX (shareware) also for transparency, shadow, anymation etc:
http://www.stardock.com/products/windowfx/

TrueTransparency (free) -> My Choice, credits to Lefreut - WM:
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.513...lorer-tools.htm

Yz Shadow (free) for Transparency, shadow-> My Choice:
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.960...lorer-tools.htm

(Updated) Fast Aero (free) for blurred border -> My Choice, credits to timbertide and lol13lol, WinMatrix:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14079

Border Skin (best) -> My Choice, credits to Mohamed Komalo, WM:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=23691

Transbar (Transparent Taskbar)->My Choice:
http://home.no/aksoftware/

PowerMenu (free) for transparency, Window always on top, Minimize to tray  etc-> My Choice:
http://www.abstractpath.com/powermenu/

Transparent/Blurred Taskbar + 7 Superbar for Windows XP (just by using hacked msstyle binary, without installing any 3rd party): -> Thanks to PeterRollar:
http://peterrollar.deviantart.com/art/perfect-clear-taskbar-win7-xp-136791727

UberIcon (Not related with Vista Animation, but still good!)
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.85-...lorer-tools.htm

Nimi (animation and transparency) credits to SamiWiecieKto, WM: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=23239

Mouseover Icon Effect Xp (Vista Icon effect for Xp), credits to ~Desktop-Squared, Deviantart:
http://desktop-squared.deviantart.com/art/...for-XP-77728307

IColor Folder (Vista/Longhorn Folder for Xp though you can still get it from icon pack, fully customizable, good!)
http://icolorfolder.sourceforge.net/?page_id=33

- Vista Taskbar Thumbnails:

Visual Tooltip-> My Choice:
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.197...lorer-tools.htm

Visual Tasktip:
http://www.visualtasktips.com/

Window FX (shareware) also for transparency, shadow, anymation etc:
http://www.stardock.com/products/windowfx/

- Vista Alt+Tab Thumbnail Switcher:

As said before: MS Powertoys Alt+Tab Switcher for Xp:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/whi...wertoySetup.exe

TaskSwitchXp 2.0 ->My Choice, better:
http://www.ntwind.com/software/taskswitchxp/download.html

- Window Flip 3d (Win+Tab):

TopDesk->The best Choice:
Download  HERE

Original Vista Flip 3d icon for TopDesk:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19627

WinFlip:
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.126...lorer-tools.htm

Shock3D:
http://www.docs.kr/entry/Download-Shock-4Way3D-en

D. Vista Start Menu for Xp:

- Vistart:
http://www.lee-soft.com/vistart/

- Vista Start Menu Emulator:
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.477...lorer-tools.htm

- Viorb (Vista Orbit Ball for Xp):
Recommended for most Vista VS (MSStyles) for Xp. Included in some packs i.e VTP 8.0:
http://lee-soft.com/viorb/index.html

- Vista Start Menu Pro - The best replacement for Vista / windows 7 start menu on XP so far, with support for Windows Search (just like Vista / 7) etc, much better than Vistart IMHO:
Download and more info: http://www.vistastartmenu.com/

- Also please visit my thread about "How to make Xp start menu behave like Vista and Windows 7 without Vistart" i.e to get Searchbar on Xp Start Menu etc :
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=20450

- Also please visit Vishal Gupta's tutorial about "Change look n' feel of Xp start menu (without 3rd party software)"
http://www.askvg.com/change-look-n-feel-of...-xp-start-menu/

E. Vista Explorer Window

- Real Vista Glass Explorer / Browser for Xp-> Visplore:
http://lee-soft.com/visplore/

- The Best 3rd Party Explorer Replacement: Dopus (AKA Directory Opus): Better than Windows Explorer even Vista's Explorer:
Download and try Here

- Vista Favorite Link:

Findexer:
http://tomseffect.com/

- Vista BreadCrumb Address:

QTAddressBar (free), Great and recommended:
http://qttabbar.wikidot.com/

Minimalist Explorer Breadcrumb: Cool app, free
http://minimalist.com/software/ExplorerBreadcrumbs/

- Vista Explorer Searchbar, Command Bar and / or Toolbar B/F button:

Styler (free)
the searchbar is fake. But still looks good (for GUI reason only):
http://www.crystalxp.net/galerie/en.id.551-styler-1-401.html

- Vista "Slide" button for Thumbnail:

QTTabbar (Free),
Explorer Tab (like Mozilla), tooltip preview etc Recommended:
http://qttabbar.wikidot.com/

- Vista Live Icon and thumbnail preview (part of Vista DWM):

You can get some features ("down level/less) in Xp by visiting my thread on WinMatrix here:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19751

- Vista Metadata pane (Viewer/Editor):
(It's actually updated Xp webview/Details pane + Status bar + Summary context menu.

You can get some features ("down level/less) in Xp by visiting my thread on WinMatrix here:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19751

- Vista Exporer Preview Pane on Xp (Vista File Viewer):

You can get some features ("down level/less) in Xp by visiting my thread on WinMatrix here:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19634

- Original Vista Explorer Search (Engine and Features) on Xp (Vista Desktop Search):

Microsoft has launched Windows Search 4.0 for Xp. Also see my threads thread:
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19634

Direct Download Windows Search 4.0 for Xp:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/...ch/default.mspx

- Vista / 7 style Thumbnail borders/appearance for multimedia files in Windows XP Explorer (or downlevel OSes):
Seems i have still no found any perfect tool yet for that, but maybe installing Microsoft Windows Live PhotoGallery and/or Captrue Thumbnailer Lite on XP can be other good options/approach AFAIK:
- Windows Live PhotoGallery (freeware): http://download.live.com/photogallery
- Captrue Thumbnailer Lite (shareware): http://www.captrue.com/thumbnailerlite.html
Or just google for more options and free alternatives of them for you etc...


15. Additional: Miscellaneous and functions (Some Xp Equivalent 3rd parties of Vista Features):

A. Vista UAC for Xp:
http://www.jcxp.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=29598 -> Download: http://www.4shared.com/file/93141554/85ec6...UAC_for_Xp.html
http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?...t=0#entry185066

- Vista and Windows 7 UAC for XP - by Rudy-XP (credits to him), Deviantart:
Get a working and functional version of UAC "ported" to XP and Server 2003:
http://rudy-xp.deviantart.com/art/Vista-and-Windows-7-UAC-for-XP-170656130

- Vista / Windows 7 UAC features + "Run as administrator" context menu on XP just like Vista/Seven(functional):
http://rudy-xp.deviantart.com/art/Vista-and-Windows-7-UAC-for-XP-170656130
http://www.4shared.com/file/hNOsRb0v/Vista__Windows_7_UAC_features_.html

- WinGuard Pro:
http://www.winguardpro.com/

B. Vista Bitlocker (Encryption):

- TrueCrypt (Free):
http://www.truecrypt.org/

- PGP Desktop (both shareware and free):
http://www.pgp.com/

C. Vista Firewall:

- Zone Alarm Firewall (Free):
http://www.zonealarm.com/store/content/home.jsp and All Internet Security Suites (AVG, Kaspersky, McAfee, Windows Live OneCare etc)

D. Vista Ready Boost:

- E-Booster for Xp (shareware):
http://www.eboostr.com/download/

E. Vista Superfetch:
(Actually Xp already has built in "Prefetch", not same with Vista Superfetch, but still powerful too), alternatively just use some 3rd party for enhancing the feature:
- SystemBoosterXp:
http://www.disktrix.com/SBIntroduction.htm you can download it directly for free Here

F. Vista Ultimate Extra: Dream Scene (Motion Desktop)

- DreamRender (Freeware):
http://www.dreamrender.com/

- Dreamscapes (Freeware) (Thx to Island Dog-WinMatrix):
http://dream.wincustomize.com/

- Desktop Effects (Thx to timbertide-WinMatrix):
http://www.desktopfx.net/

G. Better Vista Task Manager for Xp and Vista:

- Process Explorer:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinte...s/bb896653.aspx

- Vista Style Task Manager for Xp and Vista (Blue)-credits to Lsdmeasap-Keznews :
http://stevejobs.blogs.keznews.com/2007/06/06/blue-task-manager-for-xp-and-vista/

- Vista style CAD (Ctrl + Alt + Del screen instead of opening Task Manager): for XP (Credits to flawless02, Deviantart). almost perfectly functional:
http://flawless02.deviantart.com/art/CAD-2009-EDITION-v1-5-for-XP-132794740
http://flawless02.deviantart.com/art/CAD-2009-EDTION-v1-6-For-XP-147097700
H. Windows Vista Sideshow for Xp:
http://www.4shared.com/file/118786005/44af...how_for_Xp.html and
http://www.gadgetdisplay.com/buy/

I. Vista Windows Fax and Scan:

Snappy Fax:
http://www.snappysoftware.com/

J. Replacement for Vista Volume Mixer (Per application) on Xp (3rd party):
- Indie Volume (Functional): http://www.indievolume.com/index.php, - Just Style/Mod (Picassa243, Dev): http://picassa243.deviantart.com/art/Vista...P-v2-2-80422211

A. Tweaking and fixing Xp (Kelly Corner):
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp.htm

B. Tweak Xp:
http://www.tweakxp.com/

C. Tweaking with Vishal Gupta:
http://www.askvg.com/

17. Get Vista-only Control Panel Applets for XP (Functional):
I.e Color, Windows Defender, Sync Center, Parental Control, Iscsi, Backup etc (Transformation packs such as VTP and Bricopack patch only some available Xp Control Panel applets): http://www.4shared.com/file/128466735/dde6a4ea/Vista_-_only_Control_Panel_Applets_for_XP__All_.html

- Download Folder2MyPC to create your own applet:
http://eng.softq.org/Folder2mypc

18. Create Custom Xp OS Set-Up DVD/CD (like OEM) with add ons by using NLite:
-> Very useful as you can customize Xp OS setup (and installation result) like Vista one, from beginning to ending, and so on...

- Tutorial (Thanks to MSFN) -> Multilanguage!:
http://unattended.msfn.org/unattended.xp/

- Wincert Add on Forum (Thanks to Wincert):
http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showforum=88

19. Applying Webview in Windows Xp (Active Desktop/Windows 98/ME-like Webview for Xp, Recommended "Classical" GUI feature for Xp):
http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=4192

20. You can also visit my 4Shared Sharing Dowload Page to download more Vista and Windows 7 stuffs for Xp for free (recommended) :[/u]
http://www.4shared.com/dir/6883450/cb252562/sharing.html

21. Windows 7 Applications and Features for Xp: http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21246 (or read Post 3# below...)

22. Power replacements for built-in Windows utilities (recommended, thanks to LifeHacker):
http://lifehacker.com/software/geek-to-live/power-replacements-for-built+in-windows-utilities-287966.php + Download some free cool apps/tools from my 4Shared Page: http://www.4shared.com/dir/6883450/cb252562/sharing.html

23. Download: List of most free and useful Microsoft applications for Windows and Office (Credits to Blake Handler, Windows Live):
http://bhandler.spaces.live.com/default.aspx?wa=wsignin1.0&sa=849910657 ,
Special for Windows XP Here: http://bhandler.spaces.live.com/blog/cns!70F64BC910C9F7F3!1231.entry

- Great Windows Explorer Tools: credits to Amirz, Deviantart: http://amirsyahrani.deviantart.com/art/Great-Windows-Explorer-Tools-142913425

- Also MDGx - Free PowerToys & Tweaking Tools for Windows XP, Vista, 7, All: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm

24. Wincert Link: http://www.wincert.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=4594

If you know more apps/features for Xp to Vista/Windows 7 transformation, please don't hesitate to post here. Thanks! Do you still want More? Then Google is your best friend too hehe...

Finally, Long Live Xp!

[b] -> Please Still Continue to Read My Post #3 Below and Also The Next Ones For More Info, Applications, Tools, Guides, and Tweaks etc to Transform XP into Windows 7 and so on...

[b]PS: Please feel free to redistribute them/re-upload/share all the download links and pages etc here without any permission from me...