Microsoft continues to take Windows to new heights each time it introduces a new version. Challenges have presented themselves in some of the Windows versions; nonetheless, Microsoft is quick to fix any problem that comes up. Windows 7 has gotten good reviews from most users, and Windows 8 promises to be even more impressive. It really doesn’t matter what version of Windows you use. Each version has an amazing selection of shortcuts you can start using today to make your time at the computer easier and more productive.
If you learn how to use the Windows taskbar efficiently, it can make your life less complicated. If you need to switch between programs, or open a program, you use the taskbar. The limiting factor comes into play when you want to run more than one instance of the same program simultaneously. This isn’t something you can usually do. When you click on the icon for the program a second time, it will just open the currently running version. If you are in a situation, however, where you need a different instance of a program you are running to open, you can do this by first holding down the SHIFT key and then clicking on the icon of the program. This will give you a new copy of the program to open, and you can do this as often as you want.
Most computer folks search for information on the web by first opening their browser and then doing a search. However, with Windows 7 you can start a search right from your desktop without even going through your browser. Using ‘search connectors’ you are able to search sites like YouTube right from your desktop. One of the benefits of this feature is the fact that you can do quick search of websites you frequently visit without the need of going through your browser. There are sites online that can show you how to create your own search connectors for sites that don’t already have them for you to download.
Do you have a notebook PC or a laptop? Then you probably wish there was something you could do to extend the length of each charge. You can run an Energy Report with Windows 7 that tells you what you can do to increase the length of time your batter charge lasts. Just a few clicks will get you this Energy Report. Open the Start Menu and type CMD in the search box at the bottom. When the command prompt appears at the top, right click on it. Then, click on Run As Administrator. The next screen with be a dos screen. When the DOS screen appears, type ‘powercfg -ENERGY (leave off the quotes) at the DOS prompt and hit Enter. This will tell your computer to generate an energy report that will suggest changes in settings that can help you save energy. It will also tell you if there are upgrades or drivers you may need to make your computer more efficient. By following the recommendations in your Energy Report, you can often get longer charge times from your battery.
It only makes sense to benefit by all the many ways you can use Windows. The above are just a few helpful tips that can make Windows run more efficiently. It’s possible for anyone – no matter why they use a computer – to find shortcuts to make their tasks easier. Be open to searching for ways to enhance your computer experience and you will discover the many possibilities available to you.