One of Windows 7’s strongest points is the customization capabilities it offers to users. And the best way to take advantage of the personalization options of the latest Windows client from Microsoft is via the themes that the company is offering. The latest addition to an already extensive collection of content offered as free downloads is the Windows 7 Windows Fun Theme from Sean Alexander, Director of Product Planning, Entertainment & Devices Division, former Director of Microsoft Silverlight and Windows Digital Media manager.

“This combination of Winter wallpapers and sound effects are sure to warm your heart and will be familiar to those who installed the Windows XP Winter Fun Pack back in 2003 as this is a re-release, simplified by Windows 7. I tried to take care not to overdo with the sound effects but you'll find a few little additions I think you'll enjoy. To install, just run the .themepack file on your Windows 7 desktop. The wallpapers are set to change every 30 minutes, but feel free to choose your own,” Alexander explained.

The Winter Desktop Theme for Windows 7 has been made available for download via Skydrive (5MB) by Alexander. All that end users have to do is grab the theme and execute it locally on their Windows 7 computer. The package comes not only with free backgrounds, but also new sounds.

At the end of November, Microsoft made available a Christmas theme for free via the Windows Personalization Gallery, after it partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue. The Windows 7 RTM “Twinkle Wish” theme, also a free download, is now up for grabs for those that want to tailor the desktops of their children’s computers to the holiday season. In contrast, the Winter Fun Theme for Windows 7 is addressed at a more grown-up audience. Of course, additional themes are available for download from the Windows 7 Personalization Gallery.