Navigating the Ins and Outs of the Windows Operating System
Over the years, Windows has become the dominant operating system around the world. As of 2022, Windows holds over 70% of the global OS market share. With so many people relying on Windows to power their desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, there is much to learn about effectively using this operating system. In this article, we will share insightful tips and tricks curated from experienced Windows users to help both novices and power users better utilize Windows.
Customizing the Interface
One of the best aspects of Windows is its highly customizable interface. While the default view works fine, tweaking a few settings can greatly enhance your overall experience. For starters, utilizing the taskbar’s hidden icons feature is a quick way to clean up your desktop. Simply right-click on the taskbar, select "Taskbar settings" and toggle "Select which icons appear on the taskbar" to "Off." This neat trick conceals rarely used background programs.
Additionally, employing a third-party software like Start10 enables deeper taskbar modifications. With Start10, you can customize scrolling behavior, resize menu sections, and even bring back the classic Windows 7 start menu. Beyond the taskbar, you can also tailor the look and feel of the Start Menu, File Explorer, system tray, and more to your liking via the "Personalization" tab in Windows 10 Settings. For those longing for a nostalgic Windows XP view, software like Classic Shell flawlessly recreates this experience.
Supercharging Performance
While Windows strives to balance battery life and performance out of the box, unleashing your computer’s true potential requires some tuning. The simplest change is switching to "High performance" mode under Power & sleep settings, though this eats battery life. For more granular control, creating a custom power plan allows you to tweak processor performance while retaining efficiency.
Beyond power settings, limiting background processes is key to smoother performance. The Startup tab in Task Manager shows all programs configured to launch at boot, some of which are unnecessary. Disabling startup items reduces load times and system lag. Speaking of Task Manager, monitoring your RAM usage there can indicate if upgrading your memory capacity would provide a worthwhile boost.
Lastly, switching to a solid state system drive exponentially improves boot times, app launches, and data access. So if your budget allows, replacing an old hard disk with an SSD supercharges daily interaction with Windows.
Securing Your System
With cyberthreats constantly evolving, keeping Windows locked down is pivotal. First, enable Windows Security’s firewall and antivirus protections. Use "App & browser control" under Virus & threat protection settings to block sketchy programs. Under Account protection, activating multi-factor authentication prevents unauthorized access.
Furthermore, enabling Windows’ built-in ransomware protection monitors for suspicious file activities like encryption. BitLocker is another wise choice, encrypting data on your hard drives as an added defense. To cover all bases, employing a reputable third-party cybersecurity suite like Norton 360 safeguards against threats. Always keep Windows and security software updated via Windows Update for the latest protections.
For optimal online safety, utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing public Wi-Fi. A VPN shields your IP address and encrypts data transfers over unsecured connections. On home networks, use strong WPA3 encryption with a randomized password to prevent unauthorized access.
Optimizing Gaming
Gamers know the importance of eking out every last bit of performance. For starters, use Game Mode, a Windows 10 feature that prioritizes CPU and GPU resources for gaming when enabled. Tweak in-game settings for higher framerates, lowering resource hogs like shadows and anti-aliasing. Set pre-rendered frames to 1 in NVIDIA control panel for reduced input lag.
Overclocking your GPU provides a free speed boost, using software like MSI Afterburner to surpass stock clock speeds. Upgrade to higher RAM frequencies to feed gaming data to your CPU quicker. And limit background processes through Task Manager while playing for smoother gameplay. For serious players, using a high refresh rate gaming monitor fully unlocks frame rate potential.
Final Takeaways
Mastering Windows requires continuous learning and customization. We hope these tips give you a head start in enhancing your experience. Let us know your own Windows recommendations in the comments!
