Custom Windows Vista Boot Logo - Create Your Own!
Important Warning Regarding Windows Vista SP1
NOTE: This procedure is incompatible with Windows Vista Service Pack 1. Attempting to implement this on SP1 will likely render your system unbootable.
Customizing the Windows Vista Boot Logo
For users interested in personalizing their desktop experience, altering the boot logo is a popular modification. A specialized utility can be employed to generate the necessary boot logo image formats.
It is crucial to avoid downloading this utility if you are running Windows Vista SP1.
Downloading and Preparing the Utility
Begin by downloading the Vista Boot Logo Generator 1.1. This tool will facilitate the creation of the appropriate logo image type.
After installation, ensure the application is launched with administrator privileges.
Selecting and Preparing the Logo Image
An appropriate logo file must be chosen. In this instance, an image depicting Tux, the Linux mascot, was selected as a playful alternative to the standard Windows Vista boot screen.
Two versions of the chosen image are required. One should be sized at 800x600 pixels with a 24-bit color depth, and the other at 1024x768 pixels, also with 24-bit color.
Both image files must be saved in the Bitmap (BMP) format. Temporarily store these files in a convenient location, such as the desktop, as direct copying to the system directory is initially restricted.
Taking Ownership of System Files
To gain the necessary permissions, an administrator command prompt must be opened. This can be achieved by typing 'cmd' into the Start menu search box and pressing Ctrl+Shift+Enter simultaneously.
Execute the following command within the administrator command prompt:
takeown /f C:\Windows\System32\en-US\winload.exe.mui
Subsequently, run this command, replacing "geek" with your actual username:
cacls C:\Windows\System32\en-US\winload.exe.mui /G geek:F
Copying the New Logo
Now, copy the prepared image file into the C:\Windows\System32\en-US\ directory. Confirm the overwrite prompt when prompted.
Configuring Boot Options
Utilize the msconfig utility to finalize the changes. Type 'msconfig' into the Start menu search box and select the Boot tab.
Testing the New Boot Logo
Check the "No GUI boot" option within the msconfig Boot tab. This prepares the system to display the customized boot logo upon restart.
Reboot your computer to observe the implemented changes.
