Module 10: Configuring Windows - CompTIA A+ Course

Core 2 Introduction

• Module 10 is the first in Core 2 of the course.
• Core 1 concluded with Module 9.
• It's recommended to complete Core 1 before starting Core 2.

Overview of Module 10

• Focus: Configuring Windows.
• Two main sections:
  1. Configuring Windows User Settings.
  2. Configuring Windows System Settings.

Section 1: Configuring Windows User Settings

Windows Interfaces

• Focus on Windows 10 and Windows 11 interfaces.
• User Interface (GUI): Present since Windows 95, allows browsing OS using icons, start menu, etc.
• Start Menu Evolution:
  • Windows 7: Traditional start button.
  • Windows 8/8.1: Attempted to tap into tablet/phone market, lacked a traditional start button.
  • Windows 10: Reintroduction of start menu, tiles for quick access.
  • Windows 11: Centralized start button, no tiles, introduction of widgets.

Windows Settings and Control Panel

• Control Panel: Gradually being phased out in favor of newer settings panels.
• New Control Panel: Access settings for system, notifications, power, storage, etc.
• Windows 11 Settings: More advanced, logically organized, user-friendly.

Account Settings

• User Types:
  • Administrators: Full privileges.
  • Standard Users: Limited privileges, less common now.
• Sign-in Options: Passwords, PIN, Windows Hello, Picture Password.
• User Account Control (UAC): Asks for confirmation for system changes, less intrusive since Windows 7.

File Explorer

• Allows navigation of files and folders.
• Customizable settings for visibility of files, extensions, etc.

Section 2: Configuring Windows System Settings

System Settings

• Accessed via the settings app in Windows 10/11.
• Manage display, sound, notifications, power, storage, etc.
• About Section: Shows system specs, OS version, etc.

Update and Security Settings

• Windows Updates: Critical for security, can schedule updates, define active hours.
• Windows Defender: Built-in antivirus, updated through Windows updates.

Power Options

• Accessed through the old control panel.
• Power Plans:
  • Balanced: Adjusts power based on activity.
  • Power Saver: Reduces power usage.
  • High Performance: Maximizes performance.

Apps, Programs, and Features

• Windows Features: Additional OS capabilities, enabled as needed.
• Store Apps: Apps available in the Microsoft Store.
• Desktop Apps: Traditional installable applications.
• App Settings: Set defaults for file types, uninstall apps.

Administrative Tools

• Accessible via control panel and other methods.
• Includes tools for system management, monitoring, and configuration.

Conclusion

• Understanding and configuring Windows settings is crucial for both system functionality and security.
• Familiarity with both Windows 10 and 11 interfaces is advised as the world transitions to newer systems.