If you like the look of Windows Vista but you don't want to replace your current Windows XP installation, Vistamizer turns your desktop into a reasonable facsimile of the Windows Vista and 7 desktops. It's not just a face lift for your XP instllation, either; Vistamizer can add some of Vista's better features without fully upgrading your PC to a new operating system.

To use Vistamizer, you run a small installation app that weighs in at just under 19 megabytes. The program will ask you to select from a list of features. You can add an Aero-like transparency effect, for instance, or you can add in Vista's sidebar. Vistamizer automatically creates a system restore point before applying any changes, so you can always go back if you don't like your new display.

After you restart your computer, you'll have an entirely new desktop, complete with the default Windows Vista background image unless you've selected a different option. The program effectively simulates the Vista experience, but you get to keep your old Windows XP installation for arguably better stability and compatibility.

Of course, many computer users will prefer to buy Windows 7 or Windows Vista, since Vistamizer doesn't completely replicate all of the features of the newer operating systems. There are also a large number of PC owners who would prefer a Windows 7 installation with a Windows XP desktop overlay rather than the opposite effect. Still, if you like the look of Vista but prefer the functionality of Windows XP, this program offers a great middle ground.