file extensions

Everytime I download a file from www.wincustomize.com iconpackager, windowblinds, objectbar, desktopx, etc., it is a zip file. What extension do I rename it to or how do I unzip it to the proper object desktop file using WinRar so that I can use the file properly? I am a newbie but have a pretty good understanding of how to skin my desktop with windowblinds, icons, wallpaper, and cursors.

Doug Roberts
123603@comcast.net

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These are not my words. I got them from a previous question asked here, I just can't find it again to give you the link. I knew I would have trouble finding later anyway so I copied it to a text doc for future reference. If you come across the post this originally gave from, don't forget the thank the person responsible.

The Problem:
Auto-installing Skin/Theme files are downloaded as zip files.

The Cause:
SP2 appears to be common factor here, but some people report no change after SP2.
What's happening is this... self installing file extension for most skinning programs are simply renamed ZIP archives. For some reason after SP2 is installed on XP, the extensions are renamed back to .zip when downloaded.
But it's easily fixed.

The Solution:

Step 1. File extension must not be hidden. If you're unsure what that means, open Control Panel > Folder Options > View tab > "Hide extensions for known file types" should be un-checked.

Step 2. Right-click the file and select Rename. Change the zip part of the name to the proper extenion. Example; skin1.zip = skin1.wba (for a WindowBlind skin)

DesktopX Themes = .dxtheme
DesktopX Objects = .dxpack
WindowBlinds = .wba
LogonStudio = .logonxp
BootSkin = .bootskin
CursorXP = .CurXPTheme
IconPackager = .ip

If you get a warning about changing the extention, click OK

Step 3. Double-click the renamed file.

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If you look in the zip file and there are files with the correct extensions, then those you can just double click. If inside is pngs and stuff then rename the zip to the correct extension.

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Found it... the above comes from...http://koasati.wincustomize.com/articles.aspx?SID=4091&aid=59838&UID=686510#490724

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Lantec

Join Date 07/2003

+346

One fix for the problem is to change your browser from Internet Explorer to FireFox. I have one of those system that no matter how I adjust my security settings after installing SP2 ANY compressed file download as a .zip file. I switched to FireFox and the files download as named on the site and I really like tabbed browsing. Sometimes I have to go back to IE for sites that are written specifically for it.

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Yes. I also like that FireFox always knows the default program to open WC stuff with!

I haven't had any problems with downloads using firefox (xp/sp2)!

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