Manifest file changes some GUI appearance on Windows
The inclusion of a manifest file (such as abt.exe.manifest) defers decisions about some GUI appearance elements to Windows. Specifically, shortcut keys are underlined without a manifest, but with a manifest, the underlining is controlled in the operating system, and the default is not to underline shortcut keys.
To change the default underlining of shortcut keys on Windows:
• Open the control panel.
• Choose “Display”.
• Select the Appearance tab.
• Click the Effects button.
• The resulting dialog has a check box for "hide underlined letters for keyboard navigation until I press the Alt key"; it should not be checked.
• Dismiss the dialogs with OK.
To change the default underlining of shortcut keys on Windows Vista or Windows 7:
• Open the control panel.
• Choose "Ease of Access Center".
• Choose "Make the keyboard easier to use".
• Scroll down to "Underline keyboard shortcuts and access keys" and check it.
• Click Save.
Last modified date: 07/10/2025