changing display properties for win XP

[snotmare]

Hello all!

I have searched everywhere, and to no avail. How can I script something in my log-on script that will change the display properties? Specifically, I am wanting to change the "Windows and buttons" selection on the "Appearance" tab from "Windows Classic Style" to "Windows XP Style" (and visa versa).

I'm sure it's a registry setting somewhere, but I haven't been able to locate that either! Any help will be appreciated.

He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive. - King Solomon

 

[sn0rg]

This can be done with group policy - why re-invent the wheel?

In any case, its a simple registry edit, but would (I think) require a log/off and log/on to actuate the tweak. The GPO would not, since it would apply the change before presenting the desktop to the user.

 

[tsuji]

Check out ForceClassicControlPanel value:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/pr...Kit/06390dd4-d86a-4041-a320-048d1f00c265.mspx

and

http://www.winxptutor.com/cpclassic.htm

 

[mrmovie]

there is a Broadcast message API call to make windows update without a reboot i think.
tsuji has posted an example via a dynadll thing i think.
if not wrap it in an exe and have it as an add-on, can be helpful for other stuff as well

 

[snotmare]

Thanks all for the input!

I do have this command line that will update the settings without having to reboot...

"%windir%\System32\RUNDLL32.EXE user32.dll,UpdatePerUserSystemParameters"

What you guys posted about "ForceClassicControlPanel" was good info, but that will only allow the appearance settings to be changed and not actually make the appearance change. I'm looking for a way to actually make the change. I have the ability to change the "Windows and buttons" setting manually now, I want to change it automatically.

Also, I'm not worried about changing other computers at this point, so I'm not sure a group policy will help.

Any more input on this?

He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive. - King Solomon

 

[mrmovie]

download yourself a copy of regsnap or something like that, i find that can be a good way to get the info you need