Win32 application project, L2.exe source to start client with proper parameters, avoid HOSTS and l2.ini modifications and usage of .bat files.

Download Microsoft Visual Studio Express 2012 for Windows Desktop http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=34673

Download Visual Studio Tools for Git https://visualstudiogallery.msdn.microsoft.com/abafc7d6-dcaa-40f4-8a5e-d6724bdb980c

You may want to read Rick Rainey's guide for Visual Studio and GitHub http://rickrainey.com/2013/07/27/visual-studio-and-gitub-the-basics-of-working-with-existing-repositories-2/

Install Microsoft Visual Studio Express 2012 for Windows Desktop and update it. Install Visual Studio Tools for Git.

Clone the project.

Change the IP or DNS.

Change the icon if you wish.

Compile and have fun!