Windows 7 replacement shell

TechGenix reaches millions of IT Professionals every month, and has set the standard for providing free technical content through its growing family of websites, empowering them with the answers and tools that are needed to set up, configure, maintain and enhance their networks.

Post Views: 13, Join Our Newsletter Learn about the latest security threats, system optimization tricks, and the hottest new technologies in the industry. I understand that by submitting this form my personal information is subject to the TechGenix Privacy Policy. You are reading. The shell is GUI interface that you use to run programs or view files, etc. By replacing the shell, you can completely change the look and feel of the GUI. Usually when replacing the Windows shell, users are looking for more control and customization options than what is provided in Windows.

Also, a lot of shells end up using less resources than the default shell. There used to be a lot of different shell replacement programs out there, but for whatever reason, almost all have stalled development. Instead, it seems nowadays there are more desktop customization utilities than shell replacements. In this article, I will list out active and stalled projects that are the best replacement shells for Windows.

CarioShell is the only modern looking and active Windows shell alternative that allows you to access your files and programs faster from the desktop. Classic Shell was active till the end of , but the developer has stopped working on it after 8 long years. As the name suggests, it can give Windows that classic look from older versions. Since the last stable release was just in , it still works fine in Windows 10, 8, 7, etc.

Emerge Desktop was probably one of the most popular Windows replacement shells out there before it stopped developed in It replaces Windows Explorer, the taskbar, the start button and pretty much everything else.

Another good shell alternative is Sharpenviro. It works on Windows XP, Vista and 7. You can create multiple toolbars that are similar to the Windows taskbar, but you can customize them and they can also include real-time info like monitoring CPU, taking notes, getting weather reports, etc. You can also customize pretty much everything, which is the hallmark of a good shell replacement program. Sharpenviro also supports multiple monitors, which is essential nowadays since a lot of people have more than one monitor.

You can also create virtual desktops to manage your desktop windows. Photo: iStockphoto. Aston Shell Aston Shell is one of the most feature-rich of all the replacements. Aston Shell Aston Share also offers animated skins and themes, live wallpaper, effects, and much more.

SharpEnviro ShareEnviro will especially appeal to users who want to be able to customize every aspect of their desktop. WindowBlinds WindowBlinds , by Stardock, used to be a full-blown desktop shell replacement, but now it's a tool for improving the look and feel of the Windows 7 shell. WindowBlinds You won't be adding widgets and new and improved menus with WindowBlinds. Xoblite Xoblite is also a BlackBox clone for Windows. Xoblite Xoblite isn't quite as lightning fast as bbLean, but it offers more features and power.

Comment and share: Five cool alternatives to the Windows 7 desktop shell. Show Comments. Hide Comments. My Profile Log out. Join Discussion. Add your Comment.