Released in 2001, Windows XP was noted for its high user satisfaction, but Microsoft was heavily criticized for the deep integration of Internet Explorer with the operating system. This integration also led to legal problems and Microsoft was forced to make a fix with the 2007 release of Windows Vista. Now a developer has developed a mod to show how Windows XP modded would work without the core components of Internet Explorer.
How does Windows XP work without Internet Explorer?
Developer Aurorarian has introduced a mod for Windows XP that does not include the core components of Internet Explorer. This innovative experiment affects the operation of some system components and applications of Windows XP. The modded Windows XP can run applications that are not dependent on Internet Explorer components. For example, applications such as Calculator, Paint and the on-screen keyboard work fine, while applications such as Media Player do not.
Some changes have also been made in terms of file management. The mod replaces Windows XP Explorer with NT 4.0 Explorer for file management. This was the right choice, as Windows XP Explorer would not work properly without some of the basic components of Internet Explorer.
The new Windows XP mode resembles the classic Windows versions in many ways. The taskbar and Start menu are the same as in classic Windows. This is due to the fact that the mod uses NT 4 Explorer. So while you’re technically running XP, you won’t see features like pinned apps and recently used apps in the Start menu. However, you can immediately tell the difference when you see Windows XP icons on your desktop.
A YouTube video shows which features of the mod work, which don’t, and what’s different. You can watch this video and decide if the mod is right for you.
If you want to get nostalgic for Windows XP, you can also use third-party apps. For example, Stardock’s WindowsBlinds 11 lets you customize the Start menu and taskbar of your Windows 11 or 10 PCs like Windows XP. It’s worth noting that WindowsBlinds 11 offers the famous Luna theme, while the new XP mod does not. However, if you still want to try the mod, it is recommended to install it on a virtual machine.
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