The Definitive Guide to Windows: A Deep Dive for Power Users
Whether you’re a casual user dipping your toe into Windows for the first time or a power user seeking advanced customizations, Microsoft’s ubiquitous operating system offers something for everyone. Join us on an in-depth exploration of Windows 10 and 11’s most compelling features.
1. The New and Improved Start Menu
Gone are the days of the unwieldy Start screen introduced in Windows 8. The latest iterations of Windows boast a streamlined Start menu that strikes a balance between the classic menu and the touch-friendly full screen experience. Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 allow resizing the menu and pinning favorite apps for quick access.
Windows 11 takes it a step further with its centered layout, more modern aesthetics, and integrations with Microsoft Teams. The revamped Search functionality in Windows 11 makes finding files and applications a breeze. The addition of recently used documents is handy for productivity.
Should I Reset my Windows 10 PC?
If you have been running Windows 10 for a while and you would like perform clean or you plan to recycle a PC (giveaway to a friend, charity or resell), you should use the Reset this PC function.
Does Windows 10 have fresh start?
Fresh Start has been moved starting from Windows 10 v2004. Fresh start is available for Windows 10 versions prior to 2004. For version 2004 and after, Fresh start functionality has been moved to Reset this PC. To reset your PC, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC > Get Started.
2. The Power of Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops are a godsend for multitaskers. We all know the pain of a cluttered desktop littered with open windows. With virtual desktops, Windows users can organize applications and tasks into separate workspaces.
It’s easy to create and switch between desktops using keyboard shortcuts or the Task View button on the taskbar. Dragging windows between desktops is intuitive. Virtual desktops improve focus, reduce clutter, and enhance workflow. The ability to name and color code each desktop is a nice customization touch.
3. Improved File Explorer
The File Explorer continually evolves to boost user efficiency. Windows 11 introduces handy tabs that reduce the need to open multiple windows. The new Home section provides quick access to frequent folders and recent files.
Small touches like the updated context menu, refreshed icons, and a sightly transparent background modernize the look and feel. File Explorer remains highly customizable with options like compact or details view catering to different preferences.
Overall, the improvements streamline file management. Advanced users will appreciate the ability to access the old-school Command Prompt and Powershell terminals directly within File Explorer.
What does a Windows 10 factory reset do?
The first option removes all installed software and apps, resets all Windows settings, but personal files including documents, music, and more are not removed. The second option is much like a factory reset since it will delete everything including installed programs, apps, settings, personal files, etc.
Should I upgrade to Windows 10 with a clean install?
In practice, it’s always better to start fresh with a clean install of Windows, even more if you’ve been running the same installation for quite some time. While there are multiple methods to upgrade to Windows 10, both in-place upgrade and clean install have their benefits and disadvantages.
4. Dynamic Widgets
Widgets are back in Windows 11! These handy customizable panels provide at-a-glance information like news, weather, to-do lists, and more. Widgets reside in a panel that slides out from the side.
Widgets enable personalization and custom feeds. Microsoft includes their own set of default widgets and supports third-party options. Widgets adapt to users’ contexts displaying relevant information. For example, travel widgets can show trip details when flights are booked.
With widgets, important information is always readily accessible without disrupting workflow. They deliver utility without cluttering the desktop or taskbar.
5. Improved Multi-Monitor Support
Windows has long played nice with multi-monitor setups. In the latest versions, the experience gets even better with desktops spanning across displays and new options to customize how apps open on different monitors.
Windows Snap Layouts are especially handy on multi-monitor configurations, enabling preset window arrangements. Auto-hiding the taskbar on secondary displays is great for maximizing screen real estate.
Ultimately, Windows provides flexible options to extend desktops across monitors and manage how applications launch and display on each screen.
How do I fix a failed Windows 10 update?
I understand you have a problem with failed windows updates.. Windows 10: Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, then select Windows Update under Get up and running, and then select Run the troubleshooter. **Make sure Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer services are available and running.
How long does fresh start take to install Windows 10?
At this point, Fresh Start performs a clean Windows 10 installation. The rest of the process is automatic. Fresh Start can take 20 minutes or longer to complete depending on your device. If you’re missing any device drivers after using Fresh Start, you can search for them from your Windows Settings:
6. System Restore and Recovery
With great power comes a greater potential for problems. System Restore and recovery features enable getting Windows back on track in the event of issues.
System Restore lets users roll back configurations to an earlier restore point, reversing problematic changes. Recovery options range from simple startup repair to full system reset and clean reinstallation.
These tools work to diagnose issues and refresh Windows with minimal disruption to users’ data and settings. Recovery even allows choosing to keep personal files and apps. With robust built-in recovery tools, Windows empowers users to proactively maintain and restore their system’s health.
The Last Word
Windows continues to be the platform of choice for computer users worldwide. The operating system offers rock-solid stability along with continual evolution and improvement. From power users to casual dabblers, Windows has something for everyone.
What does reset this PC do?
If you chose Keep my files, you’ll see the exact message in this screenshot, detailing exactly what Reset This PC will do: remove all apps and programs that didn’t come with this PC, change settings back to their defaults, and reinstall Windows without removing your personal files.
Should I reset Windows 10?
It would be best if you send those keys over an email or backup to a secure cloud drive Windows 10 Reset is more likely to be a basic troubleshooting method and works for fairly basic problems. On the other hand, a Clean Install is an advanced solution for more complex problems.
What does’reset this PC’ mean in Windows 10?
“Reset this PC” is a useful feature in Windows 10 to help users factory reset their computer to default settings when it isn’t running well. However, this operation is not always working properly, you may see Windows 10 reset stuck at a certain point, for example, 1%, 8%, 24%, 62%, 64%, 66%, 99%, etc.
We hope this deep dive gives you a new appreciation and understanding of Windows’ capabilities. Let us know in the comments if you have a favorite Windows feature we should cover in a future post!
