japan.jp.net

Mostly just listing things for myself in case I forget. I sure hope this list can help somebody else though.

Windows software

Visual

secureuxtheme [namazso] - c++, theme loader, open source, driverless, secure boot compatible, no file modifications [recommended]
ultrauxthemepatcher [manuel hoefs] - c++, theme loader, closed source, secure boot compatible, modifies files
openshell [openshell] - c++, collection of modifications [taskbar, internet explorer & file explorer], open source
retrobar [dremin] - c#, taskbar replacement, open source, simple installation & configuration
explorer patcher [valinet] - c, file explorer modifier, open source

Security

simplewall [henrypp] - c, wfp firewall, open source, blocked request notifier [recommended]
tinywall [pylorak] - c#, wfp firewall, open source, hosts file protection

Other

scoop [luke sampson] - powershell, package manager, open source, no admin requirements, scriptable [recommended]
chocolatey [rob reynolds] - c#, package manager, open source, nuget reliance, pollutes path
paint.net [dotpdn] - c#, photo editor, closed source

Windows 7 modifications

updatepack [simplix] - imports vital microsoft updates which have been modified to remove telemetry & processor checks [recommended]
mydigitallife iso tool [enthousiast] - collection of batch scripts to integrate drivers/updates/etc [recommended]
uefiseven [manatails] - allows installation of windows 7 on uefi class 3 machines

Guides

ltsc installation & optimization [rentry] - in-depth writings on services, group policies, etc to configure [recommended]
windows xp hardening [geekyboo] - article on hardening xp & script that enables the firewall / disables open ports / etc
themes [niivu] - collection of high quality windows 10 themes

Visual

Configurations