Windows® 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition

Windows® 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition

by Carl Siechert Ed Bott and Craig Stinson
Released July 2011
Publisher(s): Microsoft Press
ISBN: 9780735663114

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Book description

Dive deeper into Windows 7—with new content and new resources on CD! The Deluxe Edition of the ultimate, in-depth reference to Windows 7 has been fully updated for SP1 and Internet Explorer 9, and features 300+ pages of additional coverage and advanced topics. It’s now packed with even more timesaving solutions, troubleshooting tips, and workarounds from the experts—and includes a fully searchable eBook and other online resources. Topics include installation, configuration, and setup; network connections and troubleshooting; remote access; managing programs; controlling user access and accounts; advanced file management; working with Internet Explorer 9; managing security features and issues; using Windows Live Essentials 2011; performance monitoring and tuning; backups and maintenance; sharing networked resources; hardware and device drivers.

For customers who purchase an ebook version of this title, instructions for downloading the CD files can be found in the ebook.

Table of contents

  1. Windows® 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition
  2. Dedication
  3. Foreword to Windows 7 Inside Out
  4. Foreword
  5. Introduction
    1. Who This Book Is For
      1. Assumptions About You
      2. How This Book Is Organized
    2. Features and Conventions Used In This Book
      1. Text Conventions
      2. Design Conventions
    3. About the CD
      1. What’s on the CD
      2. System Requirements
    4. Acknowledgments
    5. Support and Feedback
      1. Errata & Support
      2. We Want to Hear from You
      3. Stay in Touch
  6. 1. Getting Started
    1. 1. What’s New in Windows 7
      1. Introducing the Windows 7 Family
      2. Adjusting to the Windows 7 Interface
      3. Organizing and Finding Files
      4. Saving, Sharing, and Playing Digital Media
      5. Networking in New Ways
      6. Keeping Your PC Speedy and Safe
      7. Using Internet Explorer 9
      8. Updating to Service Pack 1
    2. 2. Installing and Configuring Windows 7
      1. Before You Start
        1. Understand the Licensing Issues
        2. Know Your Hardware
          1. Deciding Between 32-Bit and 64-Bit Versions
        3. Avoiding Software Compatibility Problems
        4. Backing Up Data and Settings
      2. Setting Up Windows 7
        1. Performing a Clean Installation
        2. Setup and Your Hard Disk
        3. Upgrading a Previous Windows Version
        4. Creating and Configuring a Multiboot System
      3. Upgrading from Another Windows 7 Edition
      4. Installing and Updating Drivers
      5. Activating and Validating Windows 7
        1. Entering a Product Key
        2. Activating a Retail Copy of Windows
        3. Activation Requirements for OEM Installations
        4. Product Activation and Corporate Licensing
        5. Dealing with Product Validation
      6. Transferring Files and Settings from Another Computer
        1. Making a Connection
        2. Choosing What to Transfer
        3. Restoring Files and Settings on Your New Computer
      7. Tweaking and Tuning Your Windows Installation
        1. Adjust Basic Display Settings
        2. Update the Windows Experience Index
        3. Check Your System’s Security
        4. Test Network and Internet Connections
        5. Adjust Windows Features
        6. Choose Default Programs
        7. Personalize Power and Sleep Settings
        8. Fine-Tune System Protection Options
        9. Create Additional User Accounts
        10. Set Up a Regular Backup Schedule
    3. 3. Obtaining Help and Support
      1. Using Windows Help And Support
        1. Ensuring Access to Online Help Topics
        2. Browsing Through Windows Help And Support
        3. Searching for Help Topics
      2. Connecting to Another PC with Windows Remote Assistance
        1. How Remote Assistance Works
        2. Asking for Assistance
          1. Requesting Assistance with Easy Connect
          2. Accepting an Invitation to Help Using Easy Connect
          3. Connecting the Novice and the Expert with Windows Live Messenger
          4. Using an Invitation File to Request Assistance
        3. Offering Remote Assistance via DCOM
        4. Working in a Remote Assistance Session
          1. Sharing Control of the Novice’s Computer
          2. Terminating a Remote Assistance Session
        5. Using Remote Assistance with Earlier Windows Versions
        6. Maintaining Security
        7. Improving Remote Assistance Performance
      3. Help and Support Resources for IT Professionals
    4. 4. Personalizing Windows 7
      1. Working with the New Taskbar and Start Menu
        1. Opening and Monitoring Programs from Taskbar Buttons
          1. Adding and Removing Pinned Programs, Documents, and Folders
          2. Opening Programs
          3. Switching Tasks
        2. Opening Programs from the Start Menu
          1. Adding and Removing Pinned Programs
        3. Using Jump Lists on the Taskbar and Start Menu
      2. Personalizing the Taskbar and Start Menu
        1. Changing the Taskbar’s Appearance and Behavior
          1. Changing the Order of Taskbar Buttons
          2. Changing the Size, Appearance, and Grouping of Taskbar Buttons
          3. Changing the Taskbar’s Size and Appearance
          4. Getting the Taskbar Out of Your Way
          5. Moving the Taskbar
          6. Using Additional Toolbars
        2. Controlling How Notifications Appear
        3. Personalizing the Start Menu
          1. Customizing the Left Side of the Start Menu
          2. Customizing the Right Side of the Start Menu
          3. Controlling Where the Search Box Searches
      3. Mastering Window Management with Windows 7 Tricks
        1. Resizing and Moving Windows
        2. Viewing the Desktop and Gadgets
        3. Switching Between Windows
      4. Personalizing Theme Elements: Visuals and Sounds
        1. Customizing the Desktop Background
        2. Selecting Colors and Modifying Color Schemes
        3. Selecting Sounds for Events
        4. Choosing a Screen Saver
        5. Customizing Mouse Pointers
        6. Configuring Desktop Icons
        7. Saving, Sharing, and Finding Theme Settings
      5. Configuring Your Display
        1. Configuring Screen Resolution
        2. Configuring a Multimonitor Display
        3. Making Text Easier to Read
        4. Using Font Smoothing to Make Text Easier on the Eyes
        5. Calibrating Your Display’s Colors
      6. Using and Customizing Desktop Gadgets
      7. Setting Power and Sleep Options
        1. Selecting a Power Plan
        2. Customizing a Power Plan
        3. Understanding Sleep States
        4. Setting Power Options with Powercfg
      8. Working with Fonts
      9. Adjusting Ease of Access Options
    5. 5. Adding, Removing, and Managing Programs
      1. Dealing with User Account Control
      2. Dealing with Compatibility Issues
      3. Running Legacy Applications in Windows XP Mode
        1. Downloading and Installing Windows XP Mode
        2. Running Windows XP Mode
        3. Installing Applications
        4. Sharing Data with Windows 7
        5. Sharing Devices with Windows 7
        6. Configuring Windows Virtual PC
      4. Installing Programs on 64-Bit Editions of Windows
      5. Managing Startup Programs
        1. Controlling Startup Programs with the System Configuration Utility
        2. Using Autoruns
      6. Managing Running Programs and Processes with Windows Task Manager
      7. Running a Program as an Administrator or Another User
      8. Uninstalling Programs
      9. Setting Default Programs, File-Type Associations, and AutoPlay Options
        1. Setting Default Programs
        2. Changing File-Type Associations
          1. Changing the Default Application from Windows Explorer
        3. Setting Program Access and Computer Defaults
        4. Turning Windows Features On or Off
        5. Setting AutoPlay Options
    6. 6. Using Internet Explorer
      1. What’s New in Internet Explorer 9
      2. Installing and Uninstalling Internet Explorer 9
      3. Browsing with Internet Explorer
        1. Using the Address Bar for Faster Navigation
        2. Using Tabs and Tab Groups
          1. Reopening Closed Tabs
          2. Managing Multiple Tabs
          3. Setting Tabbed Browsing Options
        3. Setting the Home Page(s)
        4. Unhiding the Command Bar and Other Missing Interface Elements
        5. Zooming In or Out to Make Text Readable
          1. Using (or Refusing) AutoComplete
      4. Managing Favorite Sites and Recent History
        1. Adding, Editing, and Organizing Favorites
        2. Working with Pinned Sites
        3. Using Your Browser History to Revisit Familiar Sites
      5. Managing and Troubleshooting Add-Ons
        1. Managing Toolbars and Extensions
        2. Adding, Removing, and Managing Search Providers
        3. Configuring Accelerators
        4. Troubleshooting Problems Caused by Add-Ons
      6. Working with RSS Feeds and Web Slices
    7. 7. Internet Explorer Compatibility, Security, and Privacy
      1. Dealing with Compatibility Issues
        1. Using the Compatibility View List
        2. Using the Compatibility View Button
      2. Monitoring and Maintaining Security
        1. Working with Protected Mode
        2. Controlling ActiveX
        3. Using and Customizing Internet Security Zones
          1. How Security Zones Affect the Way You Browse
          2. Changing a Zone’s Security Settings
        4. Using Scripts Wisely
        5. Identifying Deceptive (Phishing) Websites
      3. Protecting Your Privacy
        1. Protecting Yourself from Online Tracking
          1. Using a Personalized Tracking Protection List
          2. Using a Third-Party Tracking Protection List
        2. Managing Cookies
        3. Clearing Personal Information
        4. Browsing Privately
      4. Managing Downloads
    8. 8. Adding Windows Live Programs and Services
      1. Getting Started with Windows Live Programs and Services
        1. Installing and Configuring Windows Live Essentials
        2. Using Windows Live Web Services
          1. Messaging Services
          2. Mail and Related Services
          3. Online Storage Services
          4. Synchronization Services
      2. Managing Your Windows Live ID and Profile
      3. Synchronizing Files and Favorites with Windows Live Mesh
      4. Using Windows Live Mail
        1. Managing Mail Accounts and Messages
          1. Keep Your Accounts Separate
          2. Fetch Mail from Other Accounts into a Single Inbox
          3. Forward Other Accounts to a Single Address
        2. Working with Contacts
        3. Using the Calendar
      5. Using Windows Live Photo Gallery
        1. Importing Pictures into the Gallery
          1. Importing Pictures into the Gallery
          2. Adding Tags to Image Files
          3. Uploading and Sharing Photos
          4. Cropping and Editing Image Files
      6. Using Windows Live Messenger
  7. 2. File Management
    1. 9. Organizing Files and Information
      1. Mastering Windows Explorer
        1. Navigating in Windows Explorer
        2. What’s What and Where in a User Profile
          1. Default User Data Folders
          2. Application Data
          3. Junctions Used for Compatibility with Windows XP
          4. The VirtualStore Folder
        3. Common Profiles
        4. Customizing the Toolbar in Windows Explorer
      2. Working with Libraries
      3. Using Compressed (Zipped) Folders
      4. Arranging Data in Windows Explorer
        1. Sorting, Filtering, and Grouping
          1. Sorting, Filtering, and Grouping
      5. Managing File Properties and Metadata
    2. 10. Using Windows Search
      1. Configuring Search and Indexing Options
        1. Which Files and Folders Are in the Index?
        2. Monitoring the Index, and Tuning Indexer Performance
        3. Other Index Maintenance Tasks
      2. Basic Search Techniques
        1. Searching from the Start Menu
        2. Refining a Search in Windows Explorer
      3. Advanced Search Tools and Techniques
        1. Searching by Item Type or Kind
        2. Changing the Scope of a Search
        3. Searching for Item Properties
        4. Using Multiple Criteria for Complex Searches
        5. Using Wildcards and Character-Mode Searches
        6. Searching with Natural Language
        7. Searching Nonindexed Locations
      4. Saving Searches and Clearing Search History
    3. 11. Advanced File Management
      1. Recovering Lost, Damaged, and Deleted Files and Folders
        1. Recovering Files and Folders with the Recycle Bin
          1. Changing Recycle Bin Settings
          2. Restoring Files and Folders
          3. Purging the Recycle Bin
        2. Restoring Previous Versions of Files and Folders
      2. Staying in Sync with Offline Files
        1. Making Folders and Files Available Offline
          1. Making Folders and Files Available Offline
          2. Working Offline
          3. Understanding Synchronization and Resolving Sync Conflicts
          4. Setting Up a Synchronization Schedule
          5. Encrypting Offline Files
        2. Setting Caching Options on the Server
          1. Managing Disk Space
          2. Removing Offline Access to Files and Folders
      3. Relocating Personal Data Folders
      4. Encrypting Information
        1. Using the Encrypting File System
        2. Encrypting with BitLocker and BitLocker To Go
      5. Industrial-Strength File Management with Robocopy and Robocopy GUI
      6. Opening Shell Folders with the Shell Command
      7. Using GUIDs to Open Control Panel Items and System Folders
    4. 12. Backup, Restore, and Recovery
      1. Using the Windows Backup Program
        1. Customizing a Backup
        2. Creating a System Image Backup
        3. Restoring Files from a Backup Set
        4. Restoring a System Image Backup
        5. Managing Saved Backups
      2. Implementing a Backup Strategy in a Server-Based Environment
        1. Configuring Computers for Backup
        2. Backing Up the Server
        3. Restoring Files from a Backup
        4. Restoring a System Image
      3. Configuring System Protection Options
      4. Rolling Back to a Stable State with System Restore
        1. Using System Restore
        2. System Restore Dos and Don’ts
  8. 3. Digital Media
    1. 13. Playing and Organizing Digital Media Files
      1. Which File Formats and Codecs Does Windows 7 Support?
      2. Using Windows Media Player
        1. Playing Music
        2. Watching Videos and DVDs
        3. Customizing the Navigation Pane
        4. Working with Playlists
          1. Creating and Editing Custom Playlists
          2. Using Auto Playlists
          3. Importing and Exporting Playlists
      3. Ripping CDs
        1. Choosing an Audio Format and Bit Rate
        2. Deciding How to Name Your Files and Where to Store Them
      4. Managing Your Media Library
        1. Using Ratings
        2. Managing Metadata and Album Art
      5. Working with (and Around) Digital Rights Management
    2. 14. Sharing and Syncing Digital Media
      1. Sharing Digital Media over a Network
        1. Sharing Media Libraries
        2. Streaming Digital Media to Other PCs or Devices
        3. Remote Streaming over the Internet
      2. Synchronizing Digital Media with Portable Devices
        1. Managing Digital Media on an iPod, iPhone, or iPad
        2. Synchronizing with a Zune Player or Windows Phone
        3. Syncing with Portable MP3 Players and Removable Storage Media
          1. Manual or Automatic Sync?
          2. Customizing Sync Settings
          3. Transferring Media Files from a Portable Device to a PC
      3. Burning Music and Other Media to CDs and DVDs
      4. Using DVDs to Share Pictures and Videos
    3. 15. Using Windows Media Center
      1. Setting Up and Customizing Media Center
      2. Mastering the Media Center Interface
        1. Navigating and Entering Text with a Remote Control
        2. Using Media Center with a Mouse or Keyboard
      3. Playing Music, Pictures, Videos, and Movies
        1. Using Ratings and Playing Favorites
        2. CDs, DVDs, and Devices
        3. Accessing Shared Libraries
      4. Recording and Watching TV
        1. Setting Up One or More TV Tuners
        2. Recording TV Programs and Series
        3. Watching and Managing Recorded TV
      5. Using an Xbox 360 as a Media Center Extender
    4. 16. Digital Media for Enthusiasts
      1. Mastering the Zune Software
        1. Using Zune to Manage a Digital Media Collection
        2. Ripping CDs
        3. Editing Album Details, Tags, and Other Metadata
        4. Creating and Managing Playlists
      2. Connecting a PC to a Home Entertainment System
        1. Connecting Your PC to a TV and External Amplifier
        2. Compensating for Overscan
      3. Managing Remote Controls and Wireless Input Devices
      4. Integrating an Xbox 360 into a Home Network
  9. 4. Security and Networking
    1. 17. Security Essentials
      1. Understanding Security Threats
      2. What’s New in Windows 7
      3. Monitoring Your Computer’s Security
      4. Blocking Intruders with Windows Firewall
        1. Using Windows Firewall in Different Network Locations
        2. Managing Windows Firewall
        3. Enabling or Disabling Windows Firewall
        4. Allowing Connections Through the Firewall
        5. Restoring Default Settings
        6. Advanced Tools for Managing Windows Firewall
      5. Staying Secure with Windows Update
      6. Using Security Software to Block Malware
        1. Choosing an Antivirus Program
        2. Setting Up and Using Microsoft Security Essentials
        3. Manually Scanning for Malware
          1. Dealing with Detected Threats
      7. Preventing Unsafe Actions with User Account Control
        1. What Triggers UAC Prompts
        2. Dealing with UAC Prompts
        3. Modifying UAC Settings
        4. Working Around UAC Without Disabling It
    2. 18. Managing User Accounts, Passwords, and Logons
      1. Introducing Access Control in Windows
        1. Permissions and Rights
        2. User Accounts and Security Groups
        3. Learning About Your Own Account with Whoami
      2. Working with User Accounts
        1. Creating a New User Account
        2. Changing Account Settings
        3. Using the Guest Account for Visitors
        4. Deleting an Account
        5. Effectively Implementing User Accounts on a Shared Computer
        6. Using Other Account Management Tools
      3. Setting a Logon Password
        1. Creating a Secure Password
        2. Setting a Password
        3. Recovering from a Lost Password
      4. Managing the Logon Process
        1. Customizing the Logon Screen
          1. Setting a Custom Desktop Background
          2. Making the Logon Text Bigger
        2. Bypassing the Logon Screen
        3. Logging Off, Switching Users, or Locking Your Computer
      5. Controlling Your Children’s Computer Access
        1. Configuring Parental Controls
          1. Restricting Logon Hours
          2. Controlling Access to Games
          3. Blocking Programs
        2. Using Other Controls to Keep Your Children Safe
    3. 19. Setting Up a Small Office or Home Network
      1. Introducing Windows 7 Networking
        1. What’s New in Windows 7
        2. Using Network And Sharing Center
        3. Understanding Network Locations
      2. Configuring Your Network Hardware
        1. Wired or Wireless?
        2. Installing and Configuring a Network Adapter
        3. Making Connections
      3. Setting Up a Wireless Network
        1. Understanding Security for Wireless Networks
        2. Configuring a Router or Wireless Access Point
        3. Connecting to a Wireless Network
          1. Connecting to a Network by Using the WPS Button
          2. Using a USB Flash Drive
          3. Connecting to a Network Without WPS or a USB Flash Drive
          4. Connecting to a Hidden Network
          5. Setting Up Per-User Wireless Network Connections
        4. Setting Up an Ad Hoc Network
        5. Connecting Wireless Devices to Your Network
      4. Using HomeGroup to Connect Your Computers at Home
        1. Creating a Homegroup
        2. Joining a Homegroup
      5. Connecting to Windows Home Server
    4. 20. Sharing and Managing Network Resources
      1. Sharing Files, Digital Media, and Printers in a Homegroup
        1. Deciding What to Share—And What Not to Share
        2. Browsing Shared Folders and Files
        3. Streaming Media in a Homegroup
        4. Sharing a Printer
        5. Using HomeGroup with a Domain-Based Computer
        6. Leaving a Homegroup
        7. Disabling HomeGroup
      2. Sharing Resources with Older Windows Versions
        1. Understanding Sharing and Security Models in Windows
        2. Configuring Your Network for Sharing
        3. Sharing Files with Public Folders
        4. Sharing Files and Folders from Any Folder
          1. Stopping or Changing Sharing of a File or Folder
          2. Setting Advanced Sharing Properties
        5. Using PowerShell Scripts to Manage Shared Folders
        6. Sharing a Printer
          1. Setting Server Properties
      3. Finding and Using Shared Resources on a Windows Network
        1. Working with Mapped Network Folders
        2. Connecting to a Network Printer
    5. 21. Advanced Windows Networking
      1. Working in a Domain-Based Network
        1. Differences in the Logon Process
        2. Security Groups and Policy Restrictions in a Domain
        3. Network Profiles in a Domain
        4. Using a Domain-Joined Computer Away from the Domain
      2. Connecting to Another Computer with Remote Desktop
        1. Configuring Your Network for Remote Desktop Connections
          1. Configuring a Router for Remote Desktop
        2. Enabling Inbound Remote Desktop Connections
        3. Using a Remote Desktop Connection
          1. Changing Screen Resolutions and Display Settings
          2. Accessing Local Resources
          3. Using the Keyboard with Remote Desktop Connection
          4. Configuring Performance Options
          5. Saving a Remote Desktop Configuration
          6. Ending a Remote Session
      3. Connecting Remotely with Windows Live Mesh
      4. Connecting Remotely to a Windows Home Server Network
        1. Configuring Your Server and Computers
        2. Making a Remote Connection
      5. Using a Virtual Private Network for Remote Access
        1. Configuring a VPN Server
        2. Connecting to a Virtual Private Network
      6. Bridging Two Networks
    6. 22. Fixing and Tweaking Your Network
      1. Viewing Status in Network And Sharing Center
      2. Diagnosing Problems Using Network Map
      3. Troubleshooting Network Problems
        1. Troubleshooting HomeGroup Problems
        2. Network Troubleshooting Tools
        3. Troubleshooting TCP/IP Problems
          1. Checking for Connection Problems
          2. Diagnosing IP Address Problems
          3. Repairing Your TCP/IP Configuration
          4. Resolving DNS Issues
      4. Maximizing Network Performance
      5. Changing Network Settings
        1. Specifying the Order and Connection Properties of Preferred Wi-Fi Networks
        2. Renaming Your Workgroup
        3. Renaming Your Network
        4. Removing a Network
      6. Managing Network Connections
        1. Setting IP Addresses
        2. Configuring Power Management
  10. 5. Tuning, Tweaking, and Troubleshooting
    1. 23. Tuning Up and Monitoring Performance
      1. Establishing a Performance Baseline
        1. Using the Windows Experience Index
        2. Generating a System Health Report
      2. Monitoring Performance in Real Time
        1. Using Windows Task Manager
        2. Using Resource Monitor
      3. Basic Strategies for Improving Performance
        1. Ensuring That You Have Adequate RAM
        2. Ensuring That You Have an Adequate Virtual-Memory Configuration
        3. Tuning and Troubleshooting SuperFetch
        4. Using ReadyBoost to Compensate for a Slow Hard Disk
        5. Managing Startup Programs and Services
        6. Keeping Your Disks Defragmented
        7. Maintaining Adequate Free Space on Your Disks
        8. Avoiding Tweaks of Dubious Value
          1. Page File Confusion
          2. Prefetch Pros and Cons
          3. Shutting Down Services
      4. Advanced Performance Analysis Tools and Techniques
    2. 24. Performing Routine Maintenance
      1. Introducing Action Center
      2. Keeping Your System Secure with Windows Update
        1. Updating Device Drivers
        2. Using Windows Update Manually
        3. Removing an Update
        4. Updating More Than One Computer
        5. Using PowerShell Scripts to Manage Updates
      3. Checking Disks for Errors
      4. Defragmenting Disks for Better Performance
        1. Using Disk Defragmenter
        2. Running Disk Defragmenter from a Command Line
        3. Defragmenting Solid-State Media
      5. Managing Disk Space
        1. Cleaning Up with Disk Cleanup
          1. Cleaning Up System Files
          2. Cleaning Up at the Command Line
        2. Strategies for Preserving Space on System Drives
        3. Conserving Space with NTFS File Compression
    3. 25. Using Advanced System Management Tools
      1. Viewing System Information
        1. Digging Deeper with Dedicated System Information Tools
      2. Finding and Decoding Information in System Information
        1. Exporting System Information
      3. Using Microsoft Management Console
        1. Running MMC Consoles
        2. MMC Consoles and User Account Control
        3. Running a Console in Author Mode
        4. Using MMC Consoles
        5. Creating Your Own MMC Consoles
          1. Running MMC with No Snap-in
          2. Displaying the Console Tree
          3. Adding Snap-ins and Extensions
          4. Managing Windows
          5. Controlling Other Display Elements
          6. Using the Favorites Menu
          7. Naming Your Console
          8. Restricting User Control of Your Console
          9. Saving a Console
      4. Managing Services
        1. Using the Services Console
        2. Starting and Stopping Services
        3. Configuring Services
          1. Setting Startup Options
          2. Specifying Recovery Actions
          3. Viewing Dependencies
          4. Determining the Name of a Service
        4. Managing Services from Task Manager
        5. Managing Services with Windows PowerShell Scripts
      5. Editing the Registry
        1. Understanding the Structure of the Registry
        2. Registry Data Types
        3. Registry Virtualization
        4. Avoiding Registry Mishaps
        5. Backing Up Before You Edit
          1. Restoring the Registry from an Exported Hive
          2. Using System Protection to Save the Registry’s State
        6. Browsing and Editing with Registry Editor
          1. Changing Data
          2. Adding or Deleting Keys
          3. Adding or Deleting Values
        7. Using .Reg Files to Automate Registry Changes
          1. Identifying the Elements of a .Reg File
          2. Using a .Reg File to Delete Registry Data
          3. Merging a .Reg File into the Registry
      6. Using Group Policy
        1. Understanding Multiple Local Group Policy Objects
          1. How Group Policy Works
          2. Resolving Conflicts Among Multiple Local Group Policy Object Settings
          3. How Local Group Policy Settings Interact with Active Directory–Based Group Policy Settings
        2. Using the Local Group Policy Editor
          1. Types of Policy Settings
          2. Creating a Custom Console for MLGPO
          3. Changing Policy Settings
          4. Controlling Which Policy Settings Are Displayed
          5. Deleting Group Policy Settings
    4. 26. Deployment and Migration
      1. Expediting Multiple Windows Installations by Installing from a USB Flash Drive
        1. Creating a Bootable UFD with the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool
        2. Creating a Bootable UFD from a Windows 7 Setup DVD
        3. Using Your Bootable UFD
      2. Deploying Windows and Microsoft Office on Several Computers
        1. Introducing the Windows Automated Installation Kit
        2. Introducing the Express Deployment Tool for System Builders
      3. Migrating User Data
      4. Working with Volume Licenses
        1. Activating a Volume License
        2. Evaluation Programs
    5. 27. Automating Windows 7
      1. Using Task Scheduler
        1. Creating a Task
          1. Creating a Task to Run with Elevated Privileges
          2. Creating a Hidden Task
          3. Configuring a Task to Run in a Different Operating System
          4. Setting Up a Task’s Trigger or Triggers
          5. Setting Up a Task’s Action or Actions
          6. Starting and Running a Task Only If the Computer Is Idle
          7. Requiring AC Power
          8. Waking the Computer to Run a Task
          9. Requiring a Network Connection
          10. Running a Task on Demand
        2. Scheduling Tasks with the Schtasks Command
      2. Automating Command Sequences with Batch Programs
      3. Automating Tasks with Windows Script Host
      4. An Introduction to Windows PowerShell
        1. Starting PowerShell
        2. Personalizing PowerShell
        3. Interacting with PowerShell
          1. Using Cmdlets
          2. Using the Pipeline
          3. Using PowerShell Features to Simplify Keyboard Entry
          4. Using PowerShell Providers for Access to File System and Registry Data
        4. Discovering PowerShell
          1. Getting Help on Conceptual Topics
          2. Finding the Right Cmdlet to Use
        5. Scripting with PowerShell
          1. Running PowerShell Scripts
          2. Using Your Profile to Customize PowerShell
          3. Using the PowerShell ISE
        6. Finding Additional PowerShell Resources
    6. 28. Troubleshooting Windows Errors and Crashes
      1. Reporting Problems and Finding Solutions
        1. Understanding Windows Error Reporting and Privacy
        2. Understanding the Windows Error Reporting Process
        3. Setting Windows Error Reporting Options
      2. Checking for Solutions to Problems
        1. Reviewing the Problem History
      3. Using Troubleshooters to Solve Problems
      4. Using Problem Steps Recorder to Get Help
      5. Reviewing Problem Reports with Reliability Monitor
      6. Troubleshooting Hangs and Other Problems with Resource Monitor
      7. Digging Deeper with Event Viewer
        1. Types of Events
        2. Understanding the Event Logs Summary
        3. Viewing Individual Logs and Events
          1. Viewing Event Details
          2. Sorting and Grouping Events
          3. Filtering the Log Display
          4. Creating and Saving Custom Views
          5. Exporting Event Data
        4. Creating a Task to Run When a Specific Event Occurs
      8. Understanding Stop Errors
        1. Customizing How Windows Handles Stop Errors
        2. How to Read a Stop Error
        3. Dealing with Stop Errors
        4. Analyzing Crash Reports
      9. Recovering from a Crash
        1. Using Advanced Boot Options
          1. Using Safe Mode
          2. Restoring the Last Known Good Configuration
          3. Other Startup Options
        2. Making Repairs with the Windows Recovery Environment
          1. Launching the Windows Recovery Environment
          2. Replacing Corrupted or Missing Files with Startup Repair
          3. Restoring Your Computer to Working Condition
          4. Running the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
          5. Working at the Command Prompt
  11. 6. Windows 7 and PC Hardware
    1. 29. Setting Up and Configuring Hardware
      1. Installing a New Plug and Play Device
      2. Managing Devices with Devices And Printers
        1. Managing Printers and Print Queues
        2. Installing a Printer
        3. Installing a Non–Plug and Play Printer
        4. Using PowerShell Scripts to Manage Printers
      3. Managing Devices with Device Stage
      4. Managing Devices with Device Manager
        1. A Crash Course in Device Drivers
          1. Is That Driver Signed?
      5. Configuring Legacy Devices
      6. Changing Settings for an Installed Device
        1. Adjusting Advanced Settings
        2. Viewing and Changing Resource Assignments
      7. Managing Installed Drivers
        1. Updating a Device Driver
        2. Rolling Back to a Previous Driver Version
        3. Uninstalling a Driver
      8. Enabling and Disabling Individual Devices
      9. Decoding Hardware Errors
    2. 30. Managing Disks and Drives
      1. The Windows 7 Disk-Management Toolkit
      2. Running Disk Management
      3. Managing Disks from the Command Prompt
      4. Setting Up a New Hard Disk
        1. Installing Windows on a New Disk
        2. Adding a New Disk to an Existing Windows Installation
          1. Specifying Volume Capacity
          2. Assigning a Drive Letter
          3. Formatting the New Volume
        3. Choosing a File System
          1. Choosing the Right UDF Version for Optical Media
          2. Choosing Between UDF and Mastered Optical Media
          3. The Advantages of NTFS
      5. Managing Existing Disks and Volumes
        1. Extending a Volume
        2. Shrinking a Volume
        3. Deleting a Volume
        4. Converting a FAT32 Disk to NTFS
        5. Assigning or Changing a Volume Label
        6. Assigning and Changing Drive Letters
        7. Mapping a Volume to an NTFS Folder
        8. Checking the Properties and Status of Disks and Volumes
        9. Permanently Wiping All Data from a Disk
      6. Working with Virtual Hard Disks
      7. Working with Solid State Drives
    3. 31. Using Pen, Touch, and Voice Input
      1. Enabling and Customizing Pen and Touch Features
        1. Calibrating the Screen
        2. Changing Orientation
        3. Redefining Tablet PC Buttons
      2. Reading, Writing, and Editing with Pen and Touch Tools
        1. Using Gestures in Windows 7
        2. Using the Writing Pad and Touch Keyboard
      3. Using Speech Recognition and Voice Commands
        1. Tuning and Tweaking Windows Speech Recognition
        2. Controlling a PC with Voice Commands
        3. Using Speech to Enter and Edit Data
  12. 7. Appendixes
    1. A. Windows 7 Editions at a Glance
      1. Features Available in All Windows 7 Editions
      2. Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic
      3. Windows 7 Home Premium
      4. Windows 7 Professional
      5. Windows 7 Ultimate/Enterprise
    2. B. Working with the Command Prompt
      1. Starting and Ending a Command Prompt Session
        1. Starting Command Prompt at a Particular Folder
        2. Starting Command Prompt and Running a Command
        3. Using AutoRun to Execute Commands When Command Prompt Starts
        4. Using Cmd’s Command-Line Syntax
      2. Using Commands
        1. Starting Programs
        2. Using File-Name and Folder-Name Completion
        3. Using Wildcards
        4. Editing the Command Line
        5. Using Command Symbols
          1. The Redirection Symbols
          2. The Pipe Symbol
          3. The Command Combination Symbols
        6. Pausing or Canceling Commands
        7. Simplifying Command Entry with Doskey Macros
      3. Using Environment Variables
        1. Viewing Environment Variables
        2. Modifying Environment Variables
      4. Customizing Command Prompt Windows
        1. Setting the Window Size and Position
          1. Setting the Window Size and Position Visually
        2. Selecting a Font
        3. Setting Colors
        4. Setting Other Options
    3. C. Fixes Included in Windows 7 Service Pack 1
      1. Application Compatibility
      2. Computer Management, Administration, and Tools
      3. Desktop and Shell
      4. Development Tools, Including .NET Framework and Data Components
      5. Hardware and Drivers
      6. International/Localization
      7. Internet Explorer
      8. Multimedia
      9. Networking
      10. Networking: IIS and WebDAV Issues
      11. Networking: Remote Access, VPN
      12. Offline Files
      13. Performance and Reliability
      14. Printing and Scanning Technologies
      15. Security
      16. Setup, Deployment, Backup, and Activation
      17. Sleep/Hibernation and Power Management
      18. Startup/Shutdown
      19. Storage
      20. Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time
      21. Windows Media Center
      22. Windows Media Player and Related Technologies
      23. Windows Portable Devices
    4. D. Windows 7 Certifications
      1. Preparing for Certification Exams
        1. Exam 70-680, Configuring Windows 7
        2. Exam 70-685, Windows 7 Enterprise Desktop Support Technician
        3. Exam 70-686, Windows 7 Enterprise Desktop Administrator
    5. E. Some Useful Accessory Programs
      1. Our Favorite Five
        1. Calculator
        2. Paint
        3. Snipping Tool
        4. Character Map and Private Character Editor
        5. Sticky Notes
      2. Other Handy Accessories
        1. Windows Fax And Scan
        2. XPS Viewer
        3. Sound Recorder
        4. WordPad
        5. Windows Journal
      3. System Management Tools
        1. Winver
        2. Boot Configuration Data Editor (BCDEdit)
        3. Color Management
        4. DirectX Diagnostic Tool (DXDiag)
        5. DOSKey
      4. Historical Curiosities
        1. Edlin
        2. Edit
        3. Debug
  13. Index
  14. About the Authors
  15. Copyright

Product information

  • Title: Windows® 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition
  • Author(s): Carl Siechert Ed Bott and Craig Stinson
  • Release date: July 2011
  • Publisher(s): Microsoft Press
  • ISBN: 9780735663114