Most of the times when we want to customize Windows look, we need to replace existing Windows system files with new files which we download from various websites or we create after modifying default files.
To replace the existing system files, first we need to take ownership of the file using following tutorial:
Add “Take Ownership” Option in File / Folder Context Menu in Windows XP, Vista and 7
Then we need to rename the file to some other name. After that we copy new file to the same folder and restart our system so that Windows can start using new customized file.
If you don't want to to the above mentioned steps, you can use a freeware "Replacer" to replace files automatically.
Just download Replacer, extract the ZIP file and run "Replacer.cmd" file present in the extracted folder. Now you need to drag-n-drop the default system file (which you want to replace) in Replacer's window. After that drag-n-drop the new modified file which will replace the default file. Replacer will ask for confirmation, press "Y" and you have done.
Restart your system and it'll replace the default file with new one upon next reboot.
PS: You can also type the complete file path in Replacer window instead of drag-n-drop the file.
Please note that, before replacing the file it will generate a backup of the original file. The backup is stored in the same folder as the system file, with the extension "backup" (such as "notepad.backup"). If there is an issue with replacing the file, for example, a system file is being used, it will ask if you would like to replace on next Windows boot.
As the file is being replaced, a log is written to "ReplacerUndo.txt" in the Windows folder. If the replacement prevents the system from properly booting, the previous operation can be reversed from the recovery console using BATCH ReplacerUndo.txt command.
You can download it using following link:
Also check:
Unlocker: File Unlocking Utility for Windows
LockHunter: Yet Another Free File Unlocker
This article was posted by VG in following section: Software, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP.
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Swapnil
Can someone confirm this works on XP/Vista or not. If nobody checks that out, I'll check it out tomorrow as I am busy today.
I don't know why VG can't check with Windows XP and Vista. I know VG must be using Windows 7 (of course nobody even thinks of using Windows XP if he is from Microsoft). BUT Windows 7 users get Windows XP Mode.
Rtyh-12
In some pics here (of his My Computer) a partition for Windows XP was there. But sure, it might mess stuff up... but I guess it's much easier when you've got more than one OS. Some time ago, I messed up a .dll (I even had a back-up in the very same folder!!) I had to do a repair install. Grr...
Someone
Smart program...
bob willis
thank u
luisvirgil
didn't work. 'access denied' on win 7 ultimate.
VG
^^ It works here. Try to run it as Administrator.
series9
hey VG, I'm somewhat confuse about to replace user32.dll ; actually i've moded user32.dll for my windows xp sp3. And now want to replace this one but it won't replace, may you guide me to replace..?
VG
^^ Did you try Replacer? What problem are you facing?
series9
nope, going to try, anyway thanks for the comment.
series9
hey VG, "Replacer" works thanks for the help.. Along with Plz may you tweet me to replace "user32.dll" file of windows xp setup. Actually "user32.dll" archived in "USER32.DL_" it does open by 7-Zip but it won't not replace OR edit.. I would like to replace my one "user32.dll" into "USER32.DL_"
HELP PLZ