The Windows Starter shell is the most “basic” of the entire family of versions of Windows 7. It has a number of functional limitations, and its appearance is caused by the need to equip the operating system with new computers for third world countries, as well as new netbooks whose resources are not designed for high loads. However, users of this “light” version should not be particularly sad, since the absence of many simple elements can be compensated by making working with this operating system more convenient and enjoyable.
So, the first proprietary part of Windows 7, which is not in the stripped-down Windows Starter, is Aero and Glass. Before correcting this situation, you should pay attention to the configuration of the device, since such "prettiness" contribute to the increase in the load on the system. That is, if the user has a netbook or a weak laptop, then an attempt to improve the appearance can result in a slowdown in the system as a whole.
If the appearance is of great importance, then in order to get around the limitations in Windows 7 Starter, you will have to use special software. To do this, there is True Transparency - an application that gives the beautiful design of Windows 7 to such operating systems as Vista, XP, Starter, Basic. The program is fully Russified and contains several ready-to-use themes. If desired, their list is easy to replenish from the Internet.
Many complaints among users are caused by the lack of the possibility of a desktop wallpaper. This is understandable, so the change of wallpaper in Windows 7 Starter should be implemented using a special utility, the name of which speaks for itself - Starter Wallpaper Changer. The application has a simple interface, and its use will save the user from the need to constantly contemplate the Windows logo.
Another unpleasant moment for owners of Windows Starter will be the lack of a personalization menu, in which there is access to the settings of all system sounds, screensavers, windows , etc. Each of these elements, if necessary, will have to be searched through the "Search" menu in the "Panel" section management ". The main elements that are most often requested by users are:
- sounds;
- screen;
- screen saver.
Using the Flip 3D program, you can give the Windows Starter desktop a three-dimensional image effect. This will be manifested in the display of windows and other elements of the system, which will give special elegance to the design, however, and will create an additional burden on the resources of the system.
For fans of Media Center, an excellent replacement would be the Media Portal application, which easily allows you to control music, TV, radio, etc. The use of DVD Maker can be compensated for using Movie Maker. If necessary, you can also easily pick up an application for taking screenshots and an alternative to a utility sticker. In addition, many modern applications for working with graphics allow you to take a picture of the desktop or active programs.
All described programs are completely free. They make it easy to turn a stripped down operating system into a kind of multi-functional Windows 7. If the given alternative options are not enough to satisfy all the requirements of the user, then he will need to think about installing a larger version of the Windows 7 edition.