A newbie looking for some guidance

I've had my computer for about 8 months, so I still consider myself a newbie. I have learned alot and find myself pulled in the direction of customizing my own desktop. I've checked out various sites and software and now it's time to investigate Wincustomize and Stardock. I'm currently using style XP, and not really happy with it. It tends to freeze up quite a bit, among other things. I've used Desktop Architect which is a good program, but I have Windows XP so I feel I'm missing out on quite a bit. The thing that makes me hesitate on purchasing the Object Desktop package is the all this talk about spyware and adware. My computer has been hit so much the past few months that I'm beginning to wonder if it's worth browsing. I'm looking for a good place to call home, that will give me safe software to use, and good support when I don't understand something and have to ask questions. I like my computer, actually I've grown rather attached to it. So I really don't want to put it in harm's way by download software from a site that's a little bit shady. I would really love some input from the community. Tell me what you think of this site, am I in the right place? >
4,390 views 19 replies
Reply #1 Top
This site is about the most honest and friendly site on the internet. All of Stardock's products are spyware-free and usually 100% dependable. The support that you can receive here at wincustomize is without a doubt usually some of the best on the internet. I do beleive you have found the right site
Reply #2 Top
The thing that makes me hesitate on purchasing the Object Desktop package is the all this talk about spyware and adware.


I can garantee OD has NONE! welcome to WC.
Reply #3 Top
Travis is right, this is a site you don't ever have to worry about(no spyware,ect)I've been with Wincustomize for nearly two years.......with no problems.....the best site for skinning
Reply #4 Top
Yep! This is the place to be alright, all the help you'll ever need

Spyware free and the Good Housekeeping Seal of approval



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Reply #5 Top

You'll have no problems like that here Julia, or with the Object Desktop products. Come on in, the water is lovely. (and so are the admins)

Reply #6 Top
I've been a subscriber to OD for 3 or 4 years and have never had problems with Stardock even trying anything that is even remotely underhanded.. The only problem I ever have is deciding which WB skin to use on a daily basis!!

Welcome to WC!! You'll be a hopeless customizer of your PC in no time!
Reply #7 Top
(and so are the admins)


got that right. you admins are wonderful!
Reply #8 Top
WC and Stardock Have been honest and helpfull since I signed up for Object Desktop not long after it was introduced.

I would suggest Stardock especially if your a newbie just order Object Desktop, point your browser towards wincustomize and your news reader to news.stardock.com for support and your set up with the best customization suite avaliable!
Reply #9 Top
Echoing the sentiments above, I have been an Object Desktop subscriber for several months and couldn't be happier. No worries at all about spyware, adware, or flooding your mailbox with spam. The products are truly some of the best value I've ever received, and I buy a LOT of software, both personally and professionally.

Fair warning, the one weakness of Stardock products that I have noticed is that documentation (manuals, tutorials, etc.) is not all it could be. They do make up for it though with very responsive customer service, and hanging out here and reading the message boards is a great help. Many Stardock employees including the owner and developers of the programs visit here and answer questions directly.

I hope you try the products and I look forward to seeing you here at WC. One last caution, especially given your user name please READ the message boards before you post a request for help, especially the sticky threads at the top of each message board... your question... like many of mine... may well have already been answered here. Welcome again, and enjoy!
Reply #10 Top
Welcome Abord, Julie!....Enjoy the ride
Reply #12 Top

And...
I think that just about covers it...


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Reply #13 Top
Welcome to the best community on the web. Hint: lose styleXP and start using WB
Reply #14 Top
nope no spyware on OD. Adaware plus likes it just fine.
you have to be careful though, once you purchase OD, you will find it increasingly more difficult to break away from WC!.... it's addictive....
I'm thinking of forming a support group for WC addicts.... oh wait... that's already taken care of in sdc!!... lol.
Welcome to the community, I look forward to seeing you in sdc #stardock with the rest of us addicts.
Reply #15 Top
This is one of the best web sites on the net, I`m new too and have found everyone here to be very helpful...Their are some "Grumpy" sometimes "Kert" messages and replies but on the whole this community is the best I have found ever....Win Customise, it`s members and Gods (At HQ) RULE


Your nickname is a little sugestive but you`ll be safe here with that even....


Welcome from one member to anoth and happy skinning too..


Reply #16 Top
I wouldn't change a thing. That name will have guys clamoring to assist you. With that said, okay her comes my spiel.

1. Lose all those other customizing programs on your computer. I would never use StyleXP or any other customizing programs except Object Desktop. It's sort of like having two different Anti Virus programs competing on your system. You are just asking for conflicts. Once you have Object Desktop, you will want no other anyway.

2. Get a good firewall. I reccommend Norton Internet Professional. It comes with a firewall, AV and Pop up blocker. No one can harm you on the internet with it. There are many fun things we do where protection is always wise. Surfing the internet is definitely one of them.

3. Welcome aboard Julie. If anyone gives you any trouble, send them my way. Jafo and I will give them a what for. lol. Enjoy the water.
Reply #17 Top


Enjoy yourself




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Reply #18 Top

1. Lose all those other customizing programs on your computer. I would never use StyleXP or any other customizing programs except Object Desktop. It's sort of like having two different Anti Virus programs competing on your system. You are just asking for conflicts. Once you have Object Desktop, you will want no other anyway.

While I wouldn't reccomend using StyleXP, or any other 'program' that hacks system files, I wouldn't go so far as to say you shouldn't use any skinning software other than ObjectDesktop programs. First off, that would eliminate using BootSkins, LogonStudio, CursorXP, all Stardock programs, but not OD components.

Secondly, that would mean you couldn't use WinAmp, LiteSTEP, NextSTART, HoverDesk, etc., etc.......... and you ain't taking my HoverDesk, no way, no how! 





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