If you’re using Windows, there are a few things you should know to do. It’s not simply a matter of turning on your system and letting it run. Occasionally, you need to do more.
Sometimes, you need to take an active role in your computer’s operations, whether it’s to change a setting, access a feature, or recover from a disaster.
Here’s a few tasks that every user worth their salt should understand- and know how to use.
Access the Boot Menu/Booting into Safe Mode
The Boot Menu lets you stipulate what state your computer will launch in. Occasionally, you’re going to run into a nasty programming error, or a hideous virus that all but disables the use of your system. Starting in safe mode can allow you to access key system components and rid yourself of infection, and troubleshoot startup issues.
In order to access the boot menu, press F8 while your system is starting up.
Open Command Prompt
It’s pretty easy to open the command prompt menu: just hit Start->Run->CMD. Most people don’t actually know what a powerful tool this can be, though. It can be used to completely retool and restructure your operating system, troubleshoot your network connection and even clear off your hard drive. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t muck around here without knowing what you’re doing.
Access the System BIOS
The BIOS, as you may know, is comprised of a number of system settings that aren’t directly related to your operating system. Accessing it allows you to configure your hardware options and modify elements of your system that are inaccessible with the traditional interface.
In order to access the BIOS….what key you press usually depends on what motherboard you’re running. Usually, it’s F1, F2, [DEL], [ESC], F10, or F12. If you can’t find your manual, try each of these at startup. Start with F2- it’s the most common.
Pull up the Task Manager
Hitting [CTRL][ALT][DEL] will bring up the Windows Task Manager, which can be used to end unresponsive programs, eliminate unruly processes, modify system services, examine system performance and view the list of users logged in to the system. Note that if you’re trying to end processes, you’re doing so at your own risk.
Access/Utilize the Control Panel
Know your way around the control panel. I know it can be complicated and confusing, but it’s vital that you know what each of the different options do, and how to use them.
To access it, go to “My Computer,” and there should be an option along one of the bars towards the top of the screen to open it.
Search/Filter by Date
If you’re searching for a file and you know the timeframe in which it was created or modified, type in ‘datecreated mm/dd/yyyy’ or ‘datemodified mm/dd/yyyy.’ ’Date Accessed” is another one, as well.
You can also filter the list of installed programs in the add/remove programs menu- simply click on one of the boxes along the top (for example, ‘installed on’) and it’ll bring up an additional dialogue with which you can filter the list.
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datecreated
mm/dd/yyyy – I don’t believe this is valid in Win XP……