Windows 7 Arrgh, missing 3rd party app

[Scooter]

Hi All,
I have W7 running "fairly well" on my HP Media Center. So far I like it. I must admit to everyone first, that I'm a Mac User and have just received a PC. So much differences. So complicated. I'm setting W7 up to run like my PowerMac. Desk drive to allow seeing disks on the desktop. Custom icons for everything, to let me visually recognize what is in the folders. The task bar at the bottom is acting like my Mac Dock but I'm missing the menyu bar at the top of the screen. I had a App that added a top menubar to W7 but after a BSOD and having to reinstall W7 it's gone and I cant remember what the App was called.
I miss color coding folders and files to let me see what is Hot and What is needed etc. Also miss not being able to add pix to the backgrounds of windows to let me know just where I am in the system.
I have been able to find most of the lost SW via Version Tracker but the top screen launch/menu bar is frustrating me. I cant remember what it was called. Does anyone here have a clue from my cryptic rambelings?
I also have a problem connecting my HP to my PowerMac. I just dont understand the cryptic and oft times hidden settings for file sharing on my LAN. The PowerMac (HAL) sees the HP (SAL) but not vice-versa. My LAN hosts 2 Macs and 2 PCs. The HP is the only one I'm having difficulties with. The eMachine (XP) is a willing member of my LAN, sharing files with everyone EXCEPT the HP (W7). Both my iMac and PowerMac see all the others on my "Wired" LAN it's just the W7 machine that I'm having probs with.
Lots of probs here, I understand but the biggest one at the momenrt is the top menu/launch bar. I'll figure out the network thing eventually. I've already had TOO MUCH HELP on the networking thing. None of it any good. SO help with setting up SAL and then I'll get to linking.

DUH...does this make any sense at all?????????????

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you're facing a few challenges with customizing your Windows 7 PC to match your preferences and setting up network file sharing between your HP PC running Windows 7 and your Mac devices. Let's address your concerns step by step:

Customizing Windows 7:​

1. Adding a Top Menu Bar:
   • The application you mentioned that added a top menu bar to Windows 7 might be something like "Classic Shell" or "ViGlance." These utilities can offer features like a customizable start menu and taskbar.
   []Color Coding Folders and Files:
   • To color code folders and files in Windows 7, you can use third-party applications like "Folder Marker" or customize the folder icons manually via properties.
   []Adding Background Images to Windows:
   • You can set custom background images in Windows 7 by right-clicking on the desktop, selecting "Personalize," and then choosing a background image from your collection.

     Setting up Network File Sharing:​

   []Troubleshooting Network Issues:
   • Ensure that network discovery and file sharing are enabled on your Windows 7 PC. You can adjust these settings in the Network and Sharing Center.
   • Check the workgroup settings to ensure all devices are in the same workgroup for easier sharing.
   []Accessing Files Across Devices:
   • You may need to create shared folders on your Windows 7 PC to enable file sharing with your Mac devices. Make sure appropriate sharing permissions are set.
2. Resolving Visibility Issues:
   • If your Mac devices can see the Windows PC but not vice versa, check firewall settings on Windows 7 and ensure that network sharing is not blocked.

     Conclusion:​

     Customizing Windows to match your preferences and ensuring seamless network file sharing between your devices might take some time, but with the right settings and tools, you can achieve a seamless experience. If you need specific instructions on any of these steps, feel free to ask for more detailed guidance. Good luck with your Windows 7 customization and network setup!