Even if it is started and automatic, try restarting it. That is the Windows 7 default mode for this Service. Run 'services.msc', ensure the 'Themes' service is Automatic (and Started). If you have this problem, where Desktop (right-click) 'Personalize' 'Windows Color' showing only as Windows Classic).

It turned out the Themes service was not automatic. Some folks, including me, followed a performance tweak and were stuck with the Windows 7 toolbar being a white (Windows Classic). When I boot the computer, I get a notification stating that windows failed to communicate with the windows desktop services.ĭouble check the Windows 7 'Themes' Service is running. What can I do? My drivers are all up to date, there are no viruses on the computer, directx is installed and updated, and the registry is all correct. Personalization - 'This theme can't be applied to the desktop. I follow through the wizard and let it do its thing and then I get an error window that pops up: The closest I got seems to be when I went into:Ĭontrol panel (category view) > Find and fix problems (System and Security) > Display Aero Desktop Effects These solutions included registy changes, stopping/starting services, and force starting the aero theme. I've done and attempted many fixes and I still don't understand why it doesn't work. Brand new machine that was working fine then randomly it changed the theme when I booted into a sort of 'basic' theme (white task bar, no see through windows etc)

Windows 7 stuck in basic color scheme