Windows 7 taskbar changed to basic view and won't change back

I have recently (a couple of days ago) faced 'the same' problem. I did read this post, however, before trying the suggested methods out (specially the SFC scan, which seemed to me something quite difficult).
I am using Windows 7 Professional 64bit operating system, and am having Vaio laptop.

I did check to 'enable' "Desktop Windows Manager", however, I found it to be in 'Automatic' setting.

Then I went for "Windows Update", and after installing the updates, I got the original taskbar back!
I hope this is of help to those who may face a similar problem in future.
It has been over 4 years for me using Windows on the same laptop.

Even I had this same problem.
Just check for the rundll32.exe file in C:\Windows\System32\
If rundll32.exe is not present, just go and download it here and paste it in C:\Windows\System32\
Now right click on your desktop, click personalize and select the default windows 7 theme under the Aero themes tab.
This worked for me.
Hope it works for you also.
Have a great day:)

I have this kind of problem too. Tried all the ways posted, but none worked. Anything related to "run as administrator" doesn't work, nothing appeared when i run the command prompt as admin. I even tried the system restore and factory reset for my Acer netbook still nothing happened. The system restore window hangs. I don't have a windows 7 disk installer for my netbook also this one got no disk reader. Need some help please.