Last Update: Sep 24, 2024 | Published: Jan 06, 2009
If you recall, back in the times of Windows 95/98, Windows 2000 Workstation and even Windows XP, many tools were available, some for free, some for a fee, that allowed the more advanced user to make changes to their computer’s operating system. These changes were (and still are) called “Tweaks”. Many of these tools had a hidden, darker and sinister agenda. Some claim to do one thing, while, in fact, perform a totally different action on your computer. Some claim to be able to tweak your computer, modem, wireless connection or Internet speed up to hundreds of times, some claim to clean your computer from obnoxious programs. Both types usually do the opposite, and either install spyware, porn or casino traps, back-doors, Trojan horses or even viruses on your computer. Then, when you notice your computer stops working as it had in the past, they “come to the rescue” and offer to clean your computer after you pay them money.
So what does this have to do with Vista you may ask. Well, Windows Vista, Microsoft’s latest operating system, is one of those operating systems that you either like, as is, or hate. However, some changes can be made to the way Vista works in order to make it more usable for your needs, and in some way, reduce the many “issues” it has. Although Vista is a nice operating system, and although it has many interesting features and capabilities, in my opinion, one of the challenges with Windows Vista is that it has too many things that need changing. I’m sure you got this feeling while reading through my many Vista tips and tricks pages.
Anyway, back to the point. Luckily for us most of these changes can be performed by either using some built-in tools such as Control Panel Applets or the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc). Other tasks might require you to directly edit the Registry. However, since editing the Registry might not be suited for all computer users, some external tools were developed in order to help you make those tweaks without having to directly mess with the os’s Registry.
Going back to this article’s promo, I have recently came across such a tool, and from reading about it and testing it myself I can tell you that this one is safe for use and does not inflict any direct or hidden damage to your computer. The best thing about it is that it is totally free to use and that it requires no installation. You simply download the tool and execute it from the zipped file. Let’s hope that the author doesn’t change up his mind about having to charge money for this nifty tool.
WinBubble is an easy-to-use tweaking utility that focuses on enhancing your Windows Vista Experience. With just two clicks, WinBubble will help you to easily customize and tweak your Windows Vista machine. Some of its features cover customization, security and optimization and more. While these settings can be found in the Registry, using the tool is a lot easier and less risky.
Download link for current version: Unlock for Us: WinBubble
In case that URL changes, here is a URL that seems to be a bit more permanent: http://unlockforus.blogspot.com
After downloading the tool, unzip it to a folder of your choice, and run the WinBubbles.exe file.
Some of the settings in WinBubble include:
General Customizations and Tweaks
Useful Tweaks to Desktop and Explorer’s Context Menu
Desktop customization
This section includes checkboxes to add Internet Explorer Icon, Network Icon, Control Panel Icon and many more.
Applying Security to your Computer
More Tweaks
As you’ve seen already, WinBubbles has so many options I can hardly list them all. Needless to say, as a freeware and installation-less application – this is a hard-to-beat deal!
Got a question? Post it on our Windows Vista Forums!