Windows Vista® Inside Out Deluxe Edition

Windows Vista® Inside Out Deluxe Edition

Released May 2008
Publisher(s): Microsoft Press
ISBN: 9780735625242

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Book description

Learn how to conquer Windows Vista from the inside out! Written by the authors of the immensely popular Windows Vista Inside Out, this deluxe edition packs even more advanced information, hundreds of timesaving solutions, troubleshooting tips, and workarounds all in concise, fast-answer format. You get 300+ new pages in this comprehensive reference that delivers the up-to-date answers you need to work with Windows Vista. New topics covered in this edition help you zero in on advanced networking, security, and corporate deployment issues as well as advanced features such as speech recognition, Tablet PC support, and Windows Vista certification. You ll also discover how to use new features in Windows Media® Player and Microsoft® Internet Explorer® 7. Plus, you ll get tools, eBooks, and more on the companion CD. With INSIDE OUT, you get all muscle and no fluff!

Key Book Benefits:

Includes a new coverage of advanced topics advanced networking, security, corporate deployment issues and high-end features

Award-winning INSIDE OUT format makes hundreds of tips, tricks, and workarounds easy to find and easy to use

Drills into features and functions in Windows Vista, delivering comprehensive detail but no fluff in a single volume

Includes a companion CD with tools, eBooks, and more

Table of contents

  1. Windows Vista® Inside Out, Deluxe Edition
    1. SPECIAL OFFER: Upgrade this ebook with O’Reilly
    2. A Note Regarding Supplemental Files
    3. Acknowledgments
    4. Conventions and Features Used in This Book
      1. Text Conventions
      2. Design Conventions
    5. About the CD
      1. What’s on the CD
      2. System Requirements
      3. Support Information
    6. I. Setup and Startup
      1. 1. What’s New in Windows Vista
        1. What’s in Windows Vista Service Pack 1?
        2. Introducing the Windows Vista Family
        3. The Windows Vista Interface: Up Close and Personalized
        4. Searching, Sharing, and Other File Management Tasks
        5. Windows Vista Security at a Glance
        6. Digital Media Essentials
        7. New Ways to Network
        8. Mail and Collaboration
        9. Performance and Reliability
        10. And Much, Much More . . .
      2. 2. Installing and Configuring Windows Vista
        1. Before You Start . . .
          1. Know Your Hardware
          2. Avoiding Software Compatibility Problems
          3. Backing Up Data and Settings
        2. Setting Up Windows Vista
          1. Performing a Clean Installation
          2. Upgrading a Previous Windows Version
          3. Upgrading from Another Windows Vista Edition
          4. Installing Windows Vista on a Computer with Other Windows Versions
          5. Installing Windows Vista Throughout an Organization
        3. Activating and Validating Windows Vista
          1. Entering a Product Key
          2. Activating a Retail Copy of Windows
          3. Activation Requirements for OEM Copies
          4. Product Activation and Corporate Licensing
          5. Dealing with Product Validation
        4. 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
        5. Configuring System Recovery Options
        6. Finishing Your Windows Vista Installation
          1. Adjust Basic Display Settings
          2. Check Your Security Settings
          3. Connect to the Internet and Your Local Network
          4. Finish Hardware Setup
          5. Add or Remove Windows Features
          6. Set Power and Sleep Settings
          7. Configure Remote Access Options
          8. Set Up Additional User Accounts
          9. Create a Backup Image
      3. 3. Obtaining Help and Support
        1. Using Windows Help And Support
          1. Online Help vs. Offline Help
          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 Remote Assistance
            1. Using Instant Messaging
            2. Sending an Invitation
          3. Offering Remote Assistance to Someone Else
          4. Working in a Remote Assistance Session
            1. Taking Control of the Novice’s Computer
          5. Using Remote Assistance with Earlier Windows Versions
          6. Maintaining Security
          7. Improving Remote Assistance Performance
      4. 4. Personalizing Windows Vista
        1. Customizing the Aero User Interface
        2. Turning Aero Off
        3. Modifying the Predefined Color Schemes
        4. Making Text Easier to Read
          1. Using Font Smoothing to Make Text Easier on the Eyes
        5. Customizing the Desktop Background
        6. Choosing a Screen Saver
        7. Changing the Way Events Are Mapped to Sounds
        8. Customizing Mouse Pointers
        9. Saving Your Settings as a Theme
        10. Configuring Screen Resolution
        11. Configuring a Multimonitor Display
        12. Configuring Desktop Icons
          1. Adding or Moving Start Menu Items to the Desktop
        13. Using and Customizing Windows Sidebar
        14. Personalizing the Start Menu
          1. Controlling the Content of the Start Menu
            1. Choosing Link, Menu, or No Show
            2. Displaying the Run Command
            3. Controlling Where the Search Box Searches
          2. Making Your Programs Easy to Find on the Start Menu
            1. Adding and Removing Pinned Programs
            2. Controlling the Number of Recently Used Programs
            3. Managing the Recent Items Menu
          3. Working with Start Menu Folders in Windows Explorer
          4. Setting the Internet and E-Mail Links at the Top of the Start Menu
        15. Launching Programs with the Quick Launch Toolbar
        16. Customizing the Taskbar
          1. Changing the Taskbar’s Size and Appearance
          2. Controlling Taskbar Grouping
          3. Getting the Taskbar Out of Your Way
          4. Moving the Taskbar
        17. Controlling the Display of Icons in the Notification Area
        18. Using Additional Toolbars
          1. Installing and Removing Toolbars
          2. Sizing and Positioning Toolbars
          3. Creating a New Toolbar
        19. 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. Setting AutoPlay Options
      5. 5. Using a Stylus, Voice, and Other Unconventional Input Devices
        1. Using Windows Vista on a Tablet PC
          1. Getting Started with a Tablet PC
            1. Adjusting for Left-Handed Use
            2. Changing Orientation
            3. Calibrating the Screen
            4. Configuring the Pen
            5. Redefining Tablet PC Buttons
          2. Using the Pen as an Input Device
          3. Using the Tablet PC Input Panel
        2. Getting Started with Windows Speech Recognition
        3. Controlling a PC with Voice Commands
        4. Using Speech to Enter and Edit Data
        5. Adjusting Ease of Access Options
      6. 6. Adding, Removing, and Managing Programs
        1. Dealing with User Account Control
        2. Dealing with Compatibility Issues
          1. Configuring MS-DOS-Based Programs
        3. Installing Programs on 64-Bit Editions of Windows
        4. Creating and Customizing Program Shortcuts
          1. Creating New Shortcuts from Scratch
          2. Deleting Shortcuts
        5. Managing Startup Programs
          1. Controlling Startup Programs with Windows Defender
          2. Using Group Policy to Control Startup Applications
            1. Run These Programs At User Logon
            2. Do Not Process The Run Once List
            3. Do Not Process The Legacy Run List
          3. Controlling Startup Programs with AutoRuns
        6. Managing Running Programs and Processes with Windows Task Manager
        7. Running a Program as an Administrator or Another User
        8. Uninstalling Programs
      7. 7. Setting Up and Troubleshooting Hardware
        1. A Crash Course in Device Drivers
          1. Is That Driver Signed?
          2. Finding the Right Driver File
          3. Viewing Driver Details
        2. Installing and Configuring a New Device
          1. Managing the Plug and Play Process
          2. Installing and Managing Printers and Print Queues
          3. Setting Up Scanners
          4. Managing Modems and Fax Devices
          5. Making Connections with Portable and Mobile Devices
          6. Configuring Legacy Devices
        3. Changing Settings for an Installed Device
          1. Adjusting Advanced Settings
          2. Viewing and Changing Resource Assignments
        4. Managing Installed Drivers
          1. Updating a Device Driver
          2. Rolling Back to a Previous Driver Version
          3. Uninstalling a Driver
        5. Enabling and Disabling Individual Devices
        6. Decoding Hardware Errors
      8. 8. Using Internet Explorer 7
        1. Choosing a Default Web Browser
        2. Using and Personalizing Internet Explorer
          1. Changing Tabbed Browsing Options
          2. Changing Search Settings
          3. Changing Your Home Page
          4. Managing Toolbars
          5. Enabling and Disabling Add-ons
          6. Configuring Internet Explorer to Work with Other Programs
          7. Resetting Internet Explorer to Its Default Settings
        3. Managing Your Favorites
          1. Adding Pages to Your Favorites List
          2. Adding Groups of Pages to the Favorites List
          3. Editing Favorites
          4. Organizing Favorites
          5. Importing, Exporting, and Sharing Favorites
          6. Using Third-Party Tools to Manage Favorites
        4. Blocking Pop-up Windows
          1. Setting the Filter Level
          2. Creating a Custom Filter Level
          3. Allowing Pop-ups from Specific Sites
          4. Configuring Notification Options
        5. Using (or Refusing) AutoComplete
          1. Saving and Protecting Passwords and Other Sensitive Data
          2. Clearing the AutoComplete History
          3. Using Inline AutoComplete
        6. Internet Explorer Security and Privacy Options
          1. Download Do’s and Don’ts
          2. Inspecting Website Certificates
          3. Identifying Deceptive (Phishing) Websites
          4. Managing Cookies
          5. Clearing Personal Information
        7. Finding, Reading, and Subscribing to RSS Feeds
        8. Using Internet Explorer as an FTP Client
      9. 9. Finding and Organizing Files and Information
        1. What’s What in Windows Explorer
          1. Displaying or Hiding Optional Elements
          2. Choosing View Options
          3. Sorting, Filtering, Stacking, and Grouping
            1. Sorting a Folder’s Contents
            2. Filtering Folder Contents
            3. Stacking Folder Contents
            4. Grouping Folder Contents
        2. Navigating in Windows Explorer
          1. Navigating with the Breadcrumb Trail
          2. Navigating with Favorite Links
          3. Navigating with the Folders List
          4. Navigating in the Common Dialog Boxes
        3. Working with Properties in the Details Pane
        4. Using and Configuring Search and Indexing
          1. Where to Search
            1. Searching from the Start Menu
            2. Searching from Windows Explorer
            3. Searching from a Common Dialog Box
            4. Searching from the Search Folder
          2. Saving a Search
          3. Searching for File Content
          4. Searching for Properties Other Than Name
          5. Searching by File Type or Extension
          6. Using Multiple Criteria in the Search Box
          7. Using Advanced Search
            1. Using Multiple Criteria in Advanced Search
            2. Searching Nondefault Locations with Advanced Search
          8. Searching with Natural Language
          9. Administering the Search Engine and Index
            1. Checking the Status of Your Index
            2. Rebuilding an Index
            3. Moving the Index to a Faster Drive
            4. Changing the Way the Index Handles Particular File Types
            5. Adding Folders to the Index
        5. 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
        6. Maximizing Storage Space with NTFS Compression and Compressed (Zipped) Folders
          1. Implementing NTFS Compression
          2. Using Zipped Folders
      10. 10. Synchronizing Files and Working with User Profiles
        1. Managing User Profiles
          1. What’s What and Where in a User Profile
          2. Common Profiles
          3. How Windows Vista Maintains Compatibility with Windows XP
          4. Compatibility and Virtualization
        2. Relocating Personal Data Folders
        3. Advanced File Transfer and Sync with Robocopy
        4. Staying in Sync with Offline Files
          1. How Windows Synchronizes Your Files
          2. Making Files and Folders Available Offline
          3. Synchronizing Offline Files
          4. Working Offline
          5. Setting Caching Options on the Server
          6. Managing Offline Files Settings
          7. Removing Offline Access to Files and Folders
      11. 11. E-Mail, Collaboration, and Personal Productivity
        1. Using Windows Live Mail
          1. Installing Windows Live Mail
          2. Setting Up Accounts
            1. Creating a Mail Account
            2. Creating a News Account
            3. Subscribing to an RSS Feed
            4. Creating a Directory Service Account
            5. Editing Account Information
          3. Customizing the Look of Windows Live Mail
          4. Selecting Quick Views
          5. Setting Basic Options
            1. Checking for Mail at Regular Intervals
            2. Controlling the Format of Outbound Messages
            3. Setting Security Options
          6. Moving Your E-Mail Messages and Settings
        2. Managing Contacts
          1. Creating a Distribution List
          2. Dealing with Multiple E-Mail Addresses
          3. Adding Contacts from E-Mail Messages
          4. Exchanging Electronic Business Cards (vCards)
          5. Importing Contacts
          6. Exporting Contacts
        3. Using Windows Calendar
          1. Creating an Appointment or Task
          2. Sharing or Publishing a Calendar
          3. Subscribing to a Calendar
          4. Managing Multiple Calendars
        4. Using Windows Meeting Space
    7. II. Security and Networking
      1. 12. Security Essentials
        1. Understanding Security Threats
        2. What’s New in Windows Vista
        3. Preventing Unsafe Actions with User Account Control
          1. What Triggers UAC Prompts
          2. Dealing with UAC Prompts
          3. Disabling UAC—and Why You Shouldn’t
          4. Working Around UAC Without Disabling It
        4. Monitoring Security in Windows Vista
        5. Blocking Intruders with Windows Firewall
          1. Tools for Managing Windows Firewall
          2. Using Windows Firewall in Different Network Locations
          3. Enabling or Disabling Windows Firewall
            1. Preventing All Incoming Traffic
            2. Disabling Windows Firewall for Individual Connections
          4. Allowing Connections Through the Firewall
            1. Working with Exceptions
            2. Creating an Exception for a Program
            3. Opening a Port
        6. Keeping Your System Secure with Windows Update
          1. Using Windows Update Manually
          2. Removing an Update
          3. Updating More Than One Computer
        7. Blocking Viruses and Worms with an Antivirus Program
          1. Finding an Antivirus Program
          2. Using an Antivirus Program
          3. Learning More About Viruses and Virus Protection
          4. Scanning for Viruses—Without an Antivirus Program
        8. Stopping Spyware with Windows Defender
          1. Scanning Your Computer for Spyware
            1. Scanning Automatically
            2. Scanning Manually
          2. Using Real-Time Protection
          3. Responding to Windows Defender Alerts
          4. Stopping Offending Programs
          5. Disabling Windows Defender
        9. Controlling Your Children’s Computer Access
          1. Configuring Parental Controls
            1. Restricting Access to Websites
            2. Restricting Logon Hours
            3. Controlling Access to Games
            4. Blocking Programs
          2. Checking Up on Your Children’s Computer Activities
      2. 13. Managing User Accounts, Passwords, and Logons
        1. Introducing Windows Security
          1. Permissions and Rights
          2. User Accounts and Security Groups
        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
        3. Setting a Logon Password
          1. Creating a Secure Password
          2. Setting a Password
          3. Recovering from a Lost Password
          4. Enforcing Secure Password Practices
        4. Managing the Logon Process
          1. Bypassing the Logon Screen
          2. Logging Off, Switching Users, or Locking Your Computer
        5. What Happened to the Administrator Account?
          1. Logging On as Administrator
          2. Using the Administrator Account in Safe Mode
        6. Learning About Your Own Account with Whoami
        7. Advanced Account Setup Options
          1. Using the Local Users And Groups Snap-in
          2. Using the Net User and Net Localgroup Commands
            1. Net User
            2. Net Localgroup
            3. Working with Domain Accounts
      3. 14. Setting Up a Small Network
        1. Capabilities of a Small Network
        2. What’s New in Windows Vista
        3. Using Network And Sharing Center
        4. Hardware, Cabling, and Connections
          1. Ethernet, Wireless, or Phone Line?
          2. Installing and Configuring a Network Adapter
          3. Making Connections
        5. Setting Up a Wireless Network
          1. Understanding Security for Wireless Networks
          2. Configuring a Wireless Access Point or Router
          3. Connecting to a Wireless Network
            1. Connecting to a Network Without Using a USB Flash Drive
            2. Connecting to a Hidden Network
            3. Setting Up Per-User Wireless Network Connections
          4. Setting Up an Ad Hoc Network
        6. Setting Up a Shared Internet Connection
        7. Exploring the Network
        8. Understanding Location Types
        9. Changing Network Settings
          1. Setting the Workgroup Name
          2. Specifying the Order and Connection Properties of Preferred Wi-Fi Networks
          3. Renaming Your Network
          4. Removing a Network
        10. Managing Network Connections
          1. Setting IP Addresses
          2. Working with the Network Command Shell (Netsh)
          3. Understanding IPv6
      4. 15. Managing Shared Folders and Printers
        1. Understanding Sharing and Security Models in Windows Vista
        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. Managing Shared Folders
          1. Viewing and Changing Share Properties
          2. Understanding Administrative Shares
          3. Creating a New Share Using the Shared Folders Snap-in
          4. Removing a Share
          5. Viewing and Disconnecting Sessions
          6. Viewing and Closing Files
        6. Accessing Shared Folders
          1. Gaining Access to Shared Folders on Another Computer
          2. Managing Network Passwords
            1. Adding a User Name and Password to the Stored List
            2. Changing or Deleting a Stored Credential
            3. Backing Up and Restoring Stored User Names and Passwords
          3. Working with Mapped Network Folders
            1. Mapping a Network Folder to a Drive Letter
            2. Unmapping a Mapped Network Folder
        7. Sharing a Printer
          1. Setting Permissions on Shared Printers
          2. Setting Hours of Availability and Other Options
          3. Setting Server Properties
        8. Command-Line Utilities for Managing Shared Resources
          1. Net Share
            1. Viewing Share Information
            2. Adding or Modifying a Share
            3. Deleting a User Share
          2. Net Use
            1. Viewing Connections
            2. Adding a Mapped Network Drive
            3. Disconnecting a Mapped Drive
          3. Net Session
            1. Viewing Session Information
            2. Disconnecting a Session
          4. Net File
          5. Net Statistics
      5. 16. Tweaking and Troubleshooting a Small Network
        1. Viewing Status in Network And Sharing Center
        2. Diagnosing Problems Using Network Map
        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. Network Troubleshooting Tools
        5. Fine-Tuning Network Performance
        6. Bridging Two Networks
      6. 17. Accessing Your Computer from Remote Locations
        1. Getting Started with Remote Desktop
        2. Configuring Your Network for Remote Desktop Connections
          1. Using a Direct Internet Connection
          2. Configuring a Router for Remote Desktop
          3. Using a Windows Server as a Remote Desktop Gateway
        3. Enabling Inbound Remote Desktop Connections
        4. 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. Disconnecting a Remote Session
        5. Allowing Remote Access via a Virtual Private Network
          1. Configuring a VPN Server
          2. Configuring Firewalls and Other Network Settings for VPN Access
        6. Connecting to a Virtual Private Network
    8. III. Digital Media
      1. 18. Digital Media Essentials
        1. Using Windows Media Player
        2. Customizing the Player’s Look and Feel
          1. Switching Display Modes
          2. Working with the Enhancements Pane
          3. Changing the Player’s Color
          4. Using Visualizations
          5. Tweaking Performance and Playback Options
            1. Varying Playback Speed
            2. Adding Surround Sound Support
            3. Using the Graphic Equalizer and SRS WOW Effects
            4. Tweaking Video Performance
            5. Optimizing Streaming Media Playback
          6. Updating the Player
        3. Using Plug-ins and Extensions
        4. Adding and Updating Codecs
        5. Which File Formats Are Supported?
        6. Managing Your Media Library
          1. Adding Items to Your Media Library
            1. Adding Items Automatically
            2. Adding Items When They Are Played
          2. Deleting Items from Your Media Library
        7. Using Media Center
        8. Synchronizing and Sharing Media with Portable Devices
        9. Understanding and Protecting Your Digital Rights
        10. Security and Privacy Issues
          1. Configuring Security Options
          2. Configuring Privacy Options
      2. 19. Playing and Organizing a Digital Music Collection
        1. Playing Music in Windows Media Player
        2. Building a Digital Music Library
          1. Ripping CDs
            1. Choosing an Audio Format and Bit Rate
            2. Deciding How to Name Your Files and Where to Store Them
          2. Downloading Tracks
          3. Sharing Files
        3. Organizing a Music Collection
          1. Updating Media Information and Album Art
          2. What to Do If Windows Media Doesn’t Recognize Your Disc
          3. Fixing Minor Errors in Album and Track Information
          4. Manually Adding Details for an Album
          5. Renaming Ripped Files
          6. Adding Details About an Album or Track
          7. Using Ratings
          8. Adding Lyrics and Other Details
        4. Working with Playlists
          1. Creating and Editing Custom Playlists
          2. Using Auto Playlists
          3. Importing and Exporting Playlists
        5. Burning Custom CDs or DVDs
      3. 20. Viewing, Organizing, and Sharing Digital Photos
        1. Installing and Configuring Windows Live Photo Gallery
        2. Using Windows Live Photo Gallery
          1. Supported File Formats
        3. Importing Pictures into the Gallery
          1. Connecting a Digital Camera
          2. Importing Images from a Storage Device
        4. Organizing and Categorizing Your Digital Pictures
          1. Editing File Properties and Other Metadata
          2. Adding Keyword Tags to Image Files
          3. Filtering and Searching Image Files
          4. Sorting and Grouping Items in the Gallery
        5. Editing Image Files
        6. Creating a Panoramic Image
        7. Sharing Digital Images
          1. Viewing a Slide Show
          2. Printing
          3. Exporting to CD, DVD, or Movie File
          4. E-Mail
      4. 21. Creating and Watching Movies and DVDs
        1. Watching DVDs in Windows Media Player
        2. Introducing Windows Movie Maker
        3. Planning a Movie Maker Project
          1. Gathering and Managing Source Materials
          2. Importing Recorded Video
        4. Using the Storyboard and Timeline to Assemble a Project
          1. Trimming Clips
          2. Using Still Images
          3. Using Transitions
          4. Using Effects
          5. Working with Sound
            1. Adding Background Music or Audio
            2. Adding Narration
            3. Changing the Sound Balance Between the Audio and Audio/Music Tracks
          6. Creating Titles and Credits
          7. Using AutoMovie to Generate Movies Automatically
        5. Saving and Sharing Movies
          1. Publishing to a File on Your Computer
          2. Publishing to a Recordable CD
          3. Publishing a Movie as an E-Mail Attachment
          4. Publishing to a Digital Video Camera
        6. Turning Movies and Pictures into Custom DVDs
      5. 22. Using Windows Media Center
        1. Getting Started with Windows Media Center
          1. Using Media Center’s 10-Foot Interface
          2. Entering Text with the Remote Control
          3. Using Media Center with a Keyboard
          4. Playing Music
          5. Watching Pictures and Videos
          6. CDs, DVDs, and Devices
        2. Recording and Watching TV
          1. Setting Up a TV Tuner (or Tuners)
          2. Setting Up a Digital Cable Tuner
          3. Using the Program Guide
          4. Recording a Program, a Series, or a Movie
          5. Watching and Managing Recorded TV
        3. Connecting and Using a Media Center Extender
        4. Sharing a Media Library with Other PCs
    9. IV. System Maintenance and Management
      1. 23. Performing Routine Maintenance
        1. Checking Disks for Errors
        2. Defragmenting Disks for Better Performance
          1. Using Disk Defragmenter
          2. Running Disk Defragmenter from a Command Line
            1. Getting a Fragmentation Report at the Command Prompt
        3. Managing Disk Space
          1. Cleaning Up with Disk Cleanup
          2. Using NTFS File Compression
        4. Smart Backup Strategies
          1. Using the Windows Backup Program
          2. Backing Up Files and Folders
          3. Restoring Files from a Backup Set
          4. Creating a Backup with Complete PC Backup
          5. Using Commands to Manage Backups
      2. 24. Tuning Up and Monitoring Performance
        1. Establishing a Performance Baseline
          1. Using the Windows Experience Index
          2. Generating a System Health Report
          3. Using Reliability Monitor to Measure Stability
        2. Monitoring Performance in Real Time
          1. Using Windows Task Manager
          2. Using Resource Monitor and Resource View
          3. Using Process Explorer
        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
          5. Managing Startup Programs
          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. Using Performance Monitor for Advanced System Analysis
          1. Switching Between Display Types
          2. Adding Counters
          3. Changing the Chart’s Display Characteristics
      3. 25. Monitoring System Activities with Event Viewer
        1. Getting Started with Event Viewer
          1. Running Event Viewer
          2. 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. Monitoring Events
          1. Creating a Task to Run When a Specific Event Occurs
          2. Monitoring Other Computers’ Events with Subscriptions
            1. Configuring Your Systems for Subscriptions
            2. Creating a Subscription
        5. Working with Log Files
          1. Setting Log File Size and Longevity
          2. Archiving and Clearing Log Files
          3. Displaying an Archived Log File
      4. 26. Troubleshooting Windows Errors
        1. Configuring and Using Windows Error Reporting
          1. Understanding Windows Error Reporting and Privacy
          2. Understanding the Windows Error Reporting Process
          3. Setting Windows Error Reporting Options
          4. Reviewing the Problem History
          5. Checking for New Solutions
        2. Reviewing the Error History with Reliability Monitor
        3. Reviewing the Error History with Event Viewer
        4. Rolling Back to a Stable State with System Restore
          1. Using System Restore
          2. System Restore Do’s and Don’ts
        5. Dealing with Stop Errors
          1. Customizing How Windows Handles Stop Errors
          2. How to Read a Stop Error
          3. General Advice for Dealing with Stop Errors
          4. Troubleshooting Specific Stop Errors
            1. STOP 0x0000000A or IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
            2. STOP 0x0000001E or KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
            3. STOP 0x00000024 or NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM
            4. STOP 0x0000002E or DATA_BUS_ERROR
            5. STOP 0x0000003F or NO_MORE_SYSTEM_PTES
            6. STOP 0x00000050 or PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
            7. STOP 0x00000077 or KERNEL_STACK_INPAGE_ERROR
            8. STOP 0x0000007F or UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP
            9. STOP 0x000000C2 or BAD_POOL_CALLER
            10. STOP 0x000000D1 or DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
            11. STOP 0x000000D8 or DRIVER_USED_EXCESSIVE_PTES
            12. STOP 0x000000EA or THREAD_STUCK_IN_DEVICE_DRIVER
            13. STOP 0x000000ED or UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME
            14. STOP 0x000000F2 or HARDWARE_INTERRUPT_STORM
            15. STOP 0xC000021A or STATUS_SYSTEM_PROCESS_TERMINATED
            16. STOP 0xC00000221 or STATUS_IMAGE_CHECKSUM_MISMATCH
      5. 27. Recovering from a Computer 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 System Files with Startup Repair
          3. Restoring Stability with System Restore
          4. Restoring an Image Backup with Complete PC Restore
          5. Running the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
          6. Working at the Command Prompt
      6. 28. Managing Services
        1. Using the Services Console
          1. Starting and Stopping Services
          2. Configuring Services
            1. Setting Startup Options
            2. Specifying Recovery Actions
            3. Viewing Dependencies
          3. Determining the Name of a Service
        2. Recommended Startup Settings for Services
        3. Managing Services from a Command Prompt
        4. Managing Services from Task Manager
      7. 29. Editing the Registry
        1. Understanding the Structure of the Registry
          1. Registry Data Types
          2. Registry Virtualization
        2. Avoiding Registry Mishaps
          1. Backing Up Before You Edit
            1. Restoring the Registry from an Exported Hive
          2. Using System Protection to Save the Registry’s State
        3. Browsing and Editing with Registry Editor
          1. Changing Data
          2. Adding or Deleting Keys
          3. Adding or Deleting Values
        4. Monitoring Registry Changes
        5. 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. Working with a Remote Computer’s Registry
        7. Changing Registry Key Permissions
        8. Restricting Access to Registry Editor
        9. Editing the Registry from the Command Line
    10. V. Advanced System Management
      1. 30. Advanced Internet Explorer Security and Administration
        1. Working with (and Around) Protected Mode
        2. Using and Customizing Internet Security Zones
          1. How Security Zones Affect the Way You Browse
          2. Adding Sites to a Zone
          3. Changing a Zone’s Security Settings
        3. Protecting Yourself from Unsafe and Unwanted Software
          1. To Trust or Not to Trust?
          2. Blocking Potentially Unsafe Downloads
          3. Downloading Executable Files
          4. Keeping ActiveX Under Control
          5. Using Scripts Wisely
        4. Installing, Removing, and Troubleshooting Add-ons
        5. Managing Cookies
          1. Viewing a Site’s Privacy Report
          2. Overriding Your Privacy Settings for Particular Websites
          3. Dispensing with Automatic Cookie Handling
          4. Backing Up Cookies
        6. Managing Internet Explorer’s Cache and History
          1. Changing the Size of the Cache
          2. Moving the Cache
          3. Controlling How Internet Explorer Uses the Cache
          4. Emptying the Cache Automatically
        7. Blocking Objectionable Content
          1. Blocking Unrated Sites
          2. Turning Off Blocking
        8. Saving and Applying Internet Explorer Settings
      2. 31. Managing Disks and Drives
        1. Running Disk Management
        2. Managing Disks from the Command Prompt
        3. Understanding Disk Management Terminology
        4. Formatting Disks
          1. 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
            4. Converting a FAT32 Disk to NTFS
        5. Creating New Volumes
          1. Creating a New Simple Volume
          2. Creating a New Spanned Volume
          3. Creating a New Striped Volume
        6. Assigning or Changing a Volume Label
        7. Assigning and Changing Drive Letters
        8. Mapping a Volume to an NTFS Folder
        9. Changing Volume Sizes
          1. Extending a Volume
          2. Shrinking a Volume
        10. Deleting a Volume
        11. Checking the Properties and Status of Disks and Volumes
        12. Setting Quotas for Disk Space Use
          1. Enabling Disk Quotas
      3. 32. Controlling Access to Files and Folders
        1. Changes to NTFS Permissions in Windows Vista
        2. Controlling Access with NTFS Permissions
          1. Applying Advanced Security Settings
            1. Working with Built-in Users and Groups
            2. Applying Permissions to Subfolders Through Inheritance
            3. Testing the Effect of Permissions
            4. Using Special Permissions
            5. Setting Permissions from a Command Prompt
          2. Taking Ownership of Files and Folders
        3. Troubleshooting Permissions Problems
          1. Permissions and File Operations
          2. Permissions and Windows XP Profile Folders
          3. Other Permissions Problems
      4. 33. Automating Windows Vista
        1. Using the Windows Vista 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
          1. Finding Scripting Resources
          2. Scripting and Security
          3. Using the Script File Format
        4. Introducing Windows PowerShell
      5. 34. Advanced Security Management
        1. Protecting a System with Windows Firewall
          1. Viewing Active Rules and Security
          2. Creating a Rule
          3. Configuring Complex Rules
          4. Logging Firewall Activity
          5. Using the Netsh Command to Manage Windows Firewall
        2. Testing Your Computer’s Network Security
        3. Managing User Rights
        4. Auditing Security Events
          1. Enabling Auditing
          2. Viewing Security Events
          3. Monitoring Logon Events
          4. Monitoring Access to Folders and Files
          5. Monitoring Other Security Events
      6. 35. Encrypting Confidential Information
        1. Using the Encrypting File System
          1. Encrypting Folders and Files
            1. Decrypting Folders and Files
            2. Allowing Others to Use Your Encrypted Files
            3. Using the Cipher Command
          2. Working with Personal Encryption Certificates
            1. Backing Up a Personal Encryption Certificate
            2. Importing a Personal Encryption Certificate
            3. Creating a New Personal Encryption Certificate
          3. Creating a Data Recovery Agent
            1. Generating a File Recovery Certificate
            2. Designating a Data Recovery Agent
            3. Backing Up a File Recovery Certificate
          4. Recovering Encrypted Files and Folders
          5. Disabling or Re-Enabling EFS
            1. Disabling and Re-Enabling EFS for All Folders and Files
            2. Disabling EFS for Individual Folders or Files
        2. Best Practices for Safe Encryption
        3. Using BitLocker Drive Encryption
          1. What You Need to Use BitLocker
            1. Determining If Your Computer Has TPM
            2. Configuring Volumes for BitLocker
          2. Enabling BitLocker Drive Encryption
          3. Backing Up Your BitLocker Key
          4. Recovering from a BitLocker Lockout
          5. Temporarily Disabling BitLocker Protection
          6. Removing BitLocker Protection
      7. 36. 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
          4. Types of Policy Settings
        2. Using the Local Group Policy Editor
          1. Creating a Custom Console for MLGPO
          2. Changing Policy Settings
          3. Controlling Which Policy Settings Are Displayed
            1. Adding or Removing Policy Templates
            2. Hiding Unwanted Snap-in Components
            3. Displaying Only Policies You Want
          4. Deleting Group Policy Settings
    11. VI. Appendixes
      1. A. Windows Vista Editions at a Glance
        1. Five Editions to Serve Two Markets
          1. For Home Users
          2. For Business Users
        2. Feature Summary
          1. User Experience
          2. Security
          3. Digital Media/Entertainment
          4. Hardware
          5. Backup
          6. Business Applications
          7. Advanced Networking and Administration
      2. B. Downloadable Resources
        1. Sysinternals Suite
        2. SyncToy 1.4
        3. SyncToy 2.0 (beta)
        4. Robocopy GUI
        5. Network Monitor 3.1
        6. Microsoft Photo Info 1.0
        7. Windows Live Photo Gallery
        8. Windows PowerShell 1.0
        9. Windows PowerShell 1.0 Documentation Pack
        10. Scriptomatic 2.0
        11. Microsoft Silverlight
        12. Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer 2.1 for IT Professionals (beta)
        13. Windows Live OneCare (90-day trial)
        14. Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor
        15. Microsoft Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.0
        16. Automated Installation Kit (AIK) for Windows Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008
        17. Internet Explorer Administration Kit 7
        18. Microsoft Deployment
        19. Windows Help Program (WinHlp32.exe) for Windows Vista
        20. Windows NT Backup – Restore Utility
        21. Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator 1.4
        22. Virtual PC 2007
        23. XML Notepad 2007
        24. Windows Live Mail
        25. Windows Live Messenger
        26. Microsoft Experience Pack for Windows Vista
        27. Microsoft Ink Desktop for Windows Vista
      3. C. 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
        2. Using Commands
          1. Starting Programs
          2. Using Command Extensions
          3. Using File-Name and Folder-Name Completion
          4. Using Cmd’s Command-Line Syntax
          5. Editing the Command Line
          6. Using Wildcards
          7. Using Command Symbols
            1. The Redirection Symbols
            2. The Pipe Symbol
            3. The Command Combination Symbols
            4. The Escape Symbol
          8. Pausing or Canceling Commands
          9. 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
      4. D. Using and Customizing Microsoft Management Console
        1. Running MMC Consoles
          1. MMC Consoles and UAC
          2. Running a Console in Author Mode
          3. Running a Console and Specifying a Target Computer
        2. Using MMC Consoles
        3. Creating Your Own MMC Consoles
          1. Running MMC with No Snap-in
          2. Displaying the Console Tree
          3. Adding Snap-ins and Extensions
          4. Adding Taskpad Views
          5. Managing Windows
          6. Controlling Other Display Elements
          7. Using the Favorites Menu
          8. Naming Your Console
          9. Restricting User Control of Your Console
          10. Saving a Console
      5. E. Viewing System Information
        1. Finding Basic Information About Your Computer
        2. Digging Deeper with Dedicated System Information Tools
        3. Finding and Decoding Information in System Information
        4. Exporting System Information
      6. F. Windows Vista Certification Exams
        1. Preparing for Certification Exams
      7. G. Fixes Included in Windows Vista 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. Networking: Wireless
        13. Offline Files
        14. Performance and Reliability
        15. Printing and Scanning Technologies
        16. Security
        17. Setup, Deployment, Backup, and Activation
        18. Sleep/Hibernation and Power Management
        19. Startup/Shutdown
        20. Storage
        21. Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time
        22. Windows Mail and Web-Based Software
        23. Windows Media Center
        24. Windows Media Player and Related Technologies
        25. Windows Portable Devices
        26. Windows Sidebar and SideShow
    12. H. Index to Troubleshooting Topics
    13. I. About the Authors
    14. Index
    15. SPECIAL OFFER: Upgrade this ebook with O’Reilly

Product information

  • Title: Windows Vista® Inside Out Deluxe Edition
  • Author(s):
  • Release date: May 2008
  • Publisher(s): Microsoft Press
  • ISBN: 9780735625242