We all know about Longhorn (codename for Windows Vista testing builds). Longhorn provided awesome UI elements in Vista testing builds but due to performance issues, Microsoft decided to ditch Longhorn code and we didn't get what we expected in Vista.
If you also love Longhorn look and can't forget the awesome Aurora Welcome Screen which was featured in Longhorn, here is an excellent news for you.
"alexandru-r-ghinea" @ DA has created a new Welcome Screen for Windows 7 users which brings Longhorn look-like Login screen to 7.

As you can see in above screenshot, it comes in 3 variations:
- Welcome Screen with Default Windows Logo at Top
- Welcome Screen with Embedded Windows Logo
- Welcome Screen without Windows Logo
The welcome screen is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit users of Windows 7.
You can download the required files using following link:
You just need to replace "authui.dll" file present in "Windows\System32" folder with the downloaded one. You can follow following tutorial to replace the system file:
Add Take Ownership Option in File / Folder Context Menu in Windows Vista and 7
Also to change the login screen background, you can use any free login screen changer utility mentioned in following article:
Ultimate Collection of the Best Free Tools to Customize Windows 7 Login Screen
This article was posted by VG in following section: Windows 7.
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rob
I just tried it and instead of rendering me unbootable, it didnt change a thing.
Someone
Can you use a different background?
Someone
Wait, I didn't read!
leomate
Can you make a list to make transform windows 7 to longhorn look.
Because I loved Longhorn Styles.
Ricardo Pereira
The 'Welcome Screen with Embedded Windows Logo' for 32bits download link is broken.
It start to download but stop on 2.4mb's.
Ndci
Dear VG,
The last time I tried to replace the Authui.dll file, I made my laptop unbootable,
is their a safe way of replacing the Authui.dll file?
Thanks in advance!
Someone
How would you make it work correctly? The login screen turns black. Using x64.
leomate
@NDCI
Try to redownload. i think file was corrupt. Using download manager instead.
cclloyd9785
ATTN: Dont replace the file until you are sure you have permission to edit the system32 folder.
that means take ownership of it, then right click it, and add your name to full control permission. Otherwise you wont be able to add the new file, and wont be able to log on/ or even switch user.
Hiren
I have ubuntu in windows 7. So in ubuntu there is excess to all windows files. So will it be ok if i replace file in ubuntu.