A User's Guide - How to navigate the Windows XP Control Panel.

A User's Guide - How to navigate the Windows® XP Control Panel.

The purpose of this guide is to teach users how to use the Windows® XP Control Panel and give an insight as to how the icons work, and what they do and the effects they may have to a computer system.

The Control Panel is easily accessed via the Start Menu of Windows® XP; to access the Control Panel, click Start.
An option on the right-hand side labelled Control Panel, will be visible, simply click it to enter the Control Panel.
By default, the Category View of the Control Panel appears.

Note:Throughout this guide, instructions are given to alter programs, create Networks, and other system utilities; the user must be logged in with an “Administrator Account” to perform these tasks.

Figure 1:


This is the default Category View of the Control Panel.

Should the preference be to use the Classic View; clicking on “Switch to Classic View” as highlighted in Figure One does this.
The Classic View is shown for illustration purposes only in Figure 2.

Figure 2:



Depending on which view is displayed either Category or Classic the layout will be slightly different, as shown in the two previous Figures.

The Category View has been arranged in such a way for novices to navigate the sub-categories easier.
Note: This guide will utilise the Category View for explanations, as the Classic View will be different from computer to computer depending upon certain programs that are installed.

The Category View has these sub-categories:

• Appearance and Themes
• Network and Internet Connections
• Add or Remove Programs
• Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices
• Performance and Maintenance
• Printers and Other Hardware
• User Accounts
• Date, Time, Language and Regional Options
• Accessibility Options
• Security Centre

Appearance and Themes:

Figure 3:


Figure 3 illustrates the Appearance and Themes section of the Control Panel; in this section the menu allows customisation options such as:

• Changing the computers theme
• Change the desktop background
• Choose a screensaver
• Change the screen resolution

Figure 4:




Changing the computer’s theme:

Changing the Theme of the computer makes it possible to switch the layout of the Menus and Icons.
The options available to change the Themes are: Modified Theme, Windows® XP, and Windows Classic, as well as searching for more Themes online.
By default the Windows® XP Theme, is displayed with the ‘chunky bars’ on the Program Windows and Desktop, they are usually Blue.
Options are available to change the colour scheme to either Olive Green or Silver; changing colour schemes will be detailed later in this guide.
The Modified Theme and Classic Theme will give the computer display the appearance of previous versions of Windows® such as, Windows®98 or Windows Me.
Modifying the Theme is a matter of personal preference.

Desktop Background:

Figure 5:



Figure 5 shows the Desktop Background Option Panel.

This menu allows the selection of a picture to be displayed on the computer Desktop.
Windows® XP has many default backgrounds available from the drop-down box; these can be ‘previewed’ by selecting the choice, then Preview.
The ‘Browse’ option allows the user to select a personal photograph or Background for use as a Custom Desktop Display.
Once the choice is selected to the user’s preference, a simple click on Apply; then, OK will set the picture on the Desktop.

Screensaver:

Figure 6:



A screensaver comes in handy occasionally; as it will prevent possible heat build up in many older monitors, by keeping the screen active with a moving picture.
There is also a feature that if the screensaver appears on the screen, that it can set a password once the mouse is moved; thus placing extra security protection measures on the computer.

To change the screensaver, click Choose a Screensaver option, as shown in Figure 6.
By default, Windows® XP has many different selections to choose from; a preview allows the selected screensaver to be viewed before applying it as the selected item.
The settings can be altered to change factors such as the Speed, Colour and Time; each option has a different settings menu.
Once all the screensaver options have been selected, simply click Apply; then Ok.

Changing the appearance of menu bars:

Figure 7:


Shown in Figure 7 is the Display Properties Options Panel; in this panel it is possible to revert the appearance of the Desktop back to previous versions of Windows® as detail earlier in this guide.

The Windows and Buttons dropdown menu allows you to switch the look of the windows from either XP or to Windows Classic.
The Colour Scheme allows changes to be made to the colour of the Windows® bar; options include, Olive Green, Silver or Blue.
The Font Size menu allows you to change the size of the font utilised in the Window, a larger font size for the vision impaired making allowing easier reading.

Screen Resolution:

Figure 8:


Figure 8 illustrates the Screen Resolution Options Panel.

In this panel it is possible to alter the screen resolution to an optimum for a particular monitor; however, each monitor varies in characteristics, so the instructions here are only a brief outline as to what is available.
The Colour Quality options will be determined on the particular monitor installed, but of course, the higher the quality selected the better the appearance of the display.

Network and Internet Connections:

Figure 9:



This section is the “Network and Internet Connections”, with options to complete the following tasks.

• Set up or change your Internet Connection.
• Create a connection to a network at your workplace.
• Set up or change your home or small office network.
• Create a wireless network for home or small office (providing the computer is wireless compatible).
• Change the Windows Firewall settings.

Set up or change Internet connection:

This option allows the creation of a connection that the computer will use to connect to the Internet; change Local Area Network Settings (LAN); configure the setting for dial-up and Virtual Private Network (VPN) Settings.
If a dial-up or VPN is available it is possible to set up a proxy for the VPN.

Create a connection to a network at a workplace:

Figure 10.



Creating a connection to a network at a workplace allows access files that are hosted on the company’s network from a home PC.
This feature is ideal for users that frequently work from home or need to keep up to date with the latest files in a workplace.
Figure 10 Illustrates the Connection Wizard; to complete the task is a matter of following the prompts within the Wizard.
Should a dial-up connection be required, it will be necessary to enter the name of the company, then the telephone number; however, if a VPN has been selected, it will be necessary to enter a Host Name or an Internet Protocol (IP) Address.
Upon completion of all the required steps, an active Internet Connection will be available.

Set up or change a home or small office network:

Figure 11.


When two or more computers are situated at the one location, this facility will allow each machine to be ‘linked or networked’ to accomplish tasks such as; Share an Internet Connection; Share files and folders, as well as Share a printer.
Once the Network Connection Wizard is activated, it is essential to follow the prompts carefully to select the particular Network configuration that is required, by reviewing the various examples (there are 6 options in all) for a Network then, follow the prompts to complete the task.
Note: During the setting up of a Network it is very important that the “Name” of each computer is unique, and the Workgroup or Network Name is the same, for example “HOME” or “OFFICE”.

Figure 12.



Having completed these steps, the Wizard will show a prompt with options for selecting how to copy the files to each computer in the new network, as shown in Figure 12.
Note: The highlighted selection (in Figure 12), “Create a Network Setup Disc” will prompt the user to insert a formatted floppy disc in Drive A. In the event that the computers do not have a floppy disc drive installed, a prompt will appear to insert and save the settings to a USB Pen Drive.
The Pen Drive or Floppy Disc will be required to run on ALL the other computers in the Network, once done it is advisable to reboot all the computers for the new network settings to operate.

Set up a wireless network for home or small office:

Figure 13.



Wireless networks do not require external cabling; hence, the computer workspace does not have a proliferation of cables.
However a ‘Master’ Router will be required, and so too separate wireless network adapter cards will be required for all machines that are to be connected to this type of network.
Many leading brands of Routers have in-built Network Setup Wizards; however, for this guide the default Windows® Xp Configuration Wizard is discussed.
Figure 13 shows the start of the Wireless Network Setup Wizard, with a panel that requires the insertion of a Service Set Identifier (SSID); this is the name that has been chosen by the user for the new network.
(It is important to keep this name in a secure place for future reference.)
Other options illustrated are; allowing Windows® to assign a Network Key (Password) or for the operator to choose a personalised Key (password).
Furthermore, it is recommended to check the box, ‘Use WPA encryption instead of WEP.’
Note: WPA is stronger than WEP, although not all devices are compatible with WPA. Please consult the Manual for the selected devices for further information.
Follow the prompts for the next steps to complete the configuration of the new Wireless Network, and it is all done.

Change Windows Firewall settings:

Figure 14.

Illustrated in Figure 14 is the default Windows® XP Firewall.

By default, the Windows® Firewall is always “On”.
A Firewall is essential for the security of a computer whilst connected to the Internet for the prevention of Spyware and Malware.
Third Party Firewalls are available as ‘Standalone’ programs, and with some leading Anti-virus programs; in this instance, the Windows® Firewall will need to be disabled to “Off”. (As shown in figure 14.)

The Windows® Firewall has an option for allowing certain installed programs to gain access to the Internet; this is possible using the Exemptions Tab, by ticking the installed programs listed on the individual computer.

Note:For complete security on any computer the Windows® Firewall will not offer complete protection; therefore, it is highly recommended that an Anti-virus program be installed, and have it’s definitions updated regularly.
An Anti-virus program should be scheduled to automatically run a minimum once a week, although Daily is more preferable.

 

Add or Remove Programs:

Figure 15.

Change or Remove Programs:

Figure 16.


Illustrated in Figure 16 is a list of programs installed on a particular computer; this will be entirely different according to personal taste and programs installed.
This is also the default Window that appears when one clicks on “Add/Remove Programs.”

There is a total of four (4) options available by default within this section; namely, Change or Remove Programs; Add new Programs; Add/Remove Windows® Components, and Set Program Access and Defaults.
The Add/Remove Programs window has a number of features enabling users to view this pane with varying statistical components.
Such as; ticking the box “Show Updates”, this will list all the Windows® Updates that have been installed on the computer, complete with the installation date with an option (once highlighted) to “Remove” those that are no longer required.
Note: Randomly removing the Windows® Updates may in some instances cause system instability, and therefore should not be removed unless absolutely necessary, or as advised by an IT programming technician.
Another helpful feature available is; ‘Sort’.
The Sort function allows access to; Name, Size, Frequency of Use, and Date Last Used; these are primarily for statistical purposes.



Add New Programs:

Figure 17.


Selecting the “Add New Program” option displays these two options:

• Add a program from a CD-ROM of floppy disc
• Add programs from Microsoft
Adding a program from a CD, USB pen-drive or floppy relatively easy; simply insert the installation media into the corresponding Drive; then, click CD or Floppy, and follow the prompts.
Alternatively, adding programs from the Microsoft® Windows Update Site is just a matter of clicking on the “Windows Update” button, and allowing the computer to automatically connect to the Windows® Update Site.

Add/Remove Windows Components:

Figure 18.


Figure 18 shows the activated “Windows Component Wizard”.

This dialogue pane allows the adding or removing of specific Windows® components and accessories; when highlighted, detailed information is viewable regarding the particular item.
Note: It noticeable in Figure 18 that the box next to “Windows Messenger” is unchecked; this is NOT the popular MSN Messenger chat program; it may be uninstalled without adverse effects to the computer system.

Set Program Access and Defaults:

Figure 19.


Illustrated in Figure 19 is the “Set Program Access and Defaults” ‘Custom’ screen.

Setting the Program Access and Defaults is an important feature that allows users to specify the default programs for activities such as; A Default Web Browser (this is important for computers with more than one Web Browser, such as Firefox™); Sending e-mail messages; Media Players; Instant Messaging Programs (MSN Messenger and Yahoo etc); and a Default Java™ Virtual Machine.
Note: When Firefox™ or another Web Browser is selected, it is recommended that access be given for Internet Explorer™. Likewise with the Java™ Virtual Machine, access to Microsoft VM ought to be allowed.

Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices:

Figure 20.


The options available in this section are:

• Adjust the system volume
• Change the sound scheme
• Change the speaker settings
• Sounds and Audio devices.

Adjust the system volume:

Figure 21.


Illustrated in Figure 21 are two sub-sections of the Sound and Audio Devices; namely, (A) the Default Volume Control Properties, and (B) the Advanced Volume Control Properties.

The Default Volume Control Properties shows the particular Sound Drivers installed in the computer; these will vary from machine to machine.
This panel also allows users to ‘Place a Volume Icon in the Notification Tray (Taskbar)’, by simply checking the box.

It is also noted that the Speaker Settings are accessible from this dialogue box; these will be explained later in this section of the guide.
The other default option available is the Device Volume slider control; however, this function is rarely used when there is a Volume Icon placed in the Taskbar.
When the “Advanced” button is pressed, the Advanced Volume Control Properties dialogue box appears as shown in (B); this allows the individual controls of the various active devices to be adjusted.
Speaker Volume and Advanced Speaker Options:
The Speaker Volume allows changes to the volume for the Left and Right speakers; they may be configured for different volume levels dependant upon the personal choice of the user.
The advanced options area allows configuration of the proper Speaker system attached to the computer; this is achieved by selecting the appropriate Speaker selection and apply the change.


Change the Sound Scheme:

Figure 22.


Figure 22 shows the Sound Scheme Options Panel.
This particular option allows changes to individual sounds used in the Windows® System for numerous System Commands.
It is entirely a matter of personal preference as to the style of ‘alert sounds’ utilised from the many default sounds available; however, if desired, NO sounds may be set.

Audio:

This particular panel displays the default and installed Devices for; Sound Playback; Sound Recording and MIDI Music Playback. Clicking on the Audio Tab of the main Properties dialogue pane attains access to this panel. (Shown in Figure 21(A)).


Voice:

Figure 23.


Illustrated by Figure 23 is the Voice section, and shows the Sound Hardware Test Wizard.
Displayed in this illustration are the particular installed devices for Voice Playback and Voice Recording.
Troubleshooting Audio and Voice issues may be resolved with the use of this default Test Wizard.

Performance and Maintenance:

Note: The Performance and Maintenance Section delves into sections of ‘The Engine Room’, (“My Computer”) or the System Properties of a computer; therefore extra diligence needs to be exercised when accessing these areas.

Figure 24.


In this section, the available options are:

• See basic information about your computer
• Adjust visual effects
• Free up space on your hard-disk
• Rearrange items on your hard-disk to make programs run faster.

See basic information about your computer:

Figure 25.


Access to the “System Properties” may also be gained by right clicking on the ‘My Computer’ Desktop Icon, under Properties.
The basic information relating to a computer system; such as, the Microsoft® XP Version and the Service Pack number installed, as well as the speed of the Processor and RAM (Random Access Memory) installed in the machine are shown.
Note: All personally identifiable information has been purposely removed from Figure 25 for security reasons.
The other Options available in the “System Properties” dialogue pane are usually reserved for experienced users; therefore, unless there is a specific reason to access these areas, they are best left with the default settings created by Windows® during the original installation.
In the event that access to these areas are required, it should be only with the guidance of an experienced user or a qualified technician.

Adjust visual effects:

Adjusting the visual effects can speed up the loading of explorer windows dramatically; lowering the settings to use fewer effects will achieve this.

Once the performance settings load a window that shows all of the visual settings will appear; to adjust these settings to speed up the visual of a system, click Custom, and select the following three features:

• Use common tasks in folders
• Use drop shadows for icon labels on the desktop
• Use visual styles on windows and buttons.

It is possible to enable more effects; however, those listed above keep the basic outline of XP without detracting from the visual effects.
Suffice to say that a remarked improvement with the ‘speed’ that the Explorer windows open will be noticeable.
Click Apply and wait for the settings to be applied. Click Ok and close the windows.

Free up space on your hard disc:

Figure 26.


Having free space on the Hard Disc Drive (HDD) is crucial; more space remaining, the faster the system may access data from the drive.
Windows® XP has a built in utility; entitled, Disc Cleanup for achieving the ‘clean – up’ of a Disc Drive.
Clicking on this task in the Category View automatically starts the disc cleanup process.
Disc Clean Up will calculate how much space will be freed on the disc; once the calculation process is complete, a prompt menu will appear displaying the amount of space that may be gained from the Clean Up.
At this point it is advisable to allow the Clean Up wizard to perform the action, without any modifications to the items selected.

Rearrange items on your hard disc to make programs run faster:

Figure 27.


Figure 27 illustrates the Disc Defragmenter after a Hard Disc Drive has been analysed, showing a coloured graph with the amount of fragmentation.

By default, Windows® Xp stores files on a Hard Disc Drive in a haphazard and random order; as a result, all files eventually become ‘fragmented’ in free space and the system ‘slows’ due to this fragmentation.
To alleviate fragmentation, it is recommended to use the Disc Defragmenter to “rearrange” files in their logical order.
Access to the Disc Defragmenter is automatic when selected in the Category View; simply follow the prompts, and allow the Disc Defragmenter to operate.
Depending upon how fragmented these files are, will determine the length of time that the process takes.
Note: It is NOT recommended to do any other work with the computer whilst the Disc Defragmenter is in operation.
When the Disc Defragmenter process is completed, on all Hard Disc Drives, it is recommended to reboot the computer for the full effects of the defragmentation operation to be noticed.
Shown in Figure 24 are other icons; such as, Administrative Tools; System; Power Options, and Scheduled Tasks.
As previously mentioned, the System and Administrative Tools Sections are usually only required by experienced users and are best left at the default settings; hence, they will not be covered in this guide.

Power Options:

Power Options allow users to conserve electricity by selecting a specific period for delaying the timeout to the monitor, hard discs and system standby to operate.
These settings are merely a matter of personal preference.
Advanced Power Options has 4 selectable options available; once again, these are dependent entirely upon personal preference.
With the release of the Windows® XP Service Pack 2 came a new option, Hibernate; enabling this option is a simple task of checking the selection box.
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a useful device in areas that experience regular and sudden power outages.
These devices can be noisy (and expensive); however, if work is lost due to sudden blackouts, a UPS might be a worthwhile investment.
By default the UPS is disabled on most systems, unless there is a UPS present.

Scheduled Tasks:

Windows® XP has yet another ‘gadget’ included by default, aptly named Task Scheduler.
This add-on will allow a user to schedule tasks such as Automatic Program Updates etc; to accomplish this, it is a matter of allowing the Task Scheduling Wizard to schedule the task by simply following the prompts.


Remote Assistance:

Remote Assistance, although a possible threat to a system’s security, has the advantage for a user to receive real time assistance from a trusted remote source, to assist with resolving certain computer issues.
For this facility to operate, it is a simple task of checking the dialogue box; setting the permissions, and the allowable time that an invitation is available.

Automatic Updates:

The default Windows® XP setting is to Automatically allow and install Windows® updates as they become available; the recommendation here is to leave the default setting, unless there is a specific personal preference to do otherwise.

System Restore:

Figure 28.



Figure 28 illustrates the System Restore Panel.

In the event that a computer system malfunctions due to corrupt files, or an incompatible third party program installation; the System Restore feature with Windows® XP is the ‘saviour’.
When this situation does occur, and a restoration is the best avenue; then, open the System Restore dialogue box; follow the prompts; select a restore date before the malfunction, and the computer will automatically ‘restore’ back to this point in time.
It should be noted that the System Restore would not delete any important documents or emails that had been created before the restore date selected.

Printers and Other Hardware.

Figure 29.




This section details the following tasks and options:

• View installed printers or fax printers
• Add a printer
• Game Controllers
• Mouse
• Keyboard
• Scanners and Cameras
• Phone and modem options.
The Tasks, Options and Icons in this section are self-explanatory in that each one has a specific task detailed with the assistance of a Windows® XP Wizard to assist with the installation of Printers; Faxes; Scanners and Cameras; and a Keyboard.
Viewing installed printers or fax printers will allow users to view the items (if any) that are installed on a computer.
In this particular screen it is possible to view documents that are waiting to be printed, simply by double-clicking the relevant icon.

Add a printer:

Adding a local printer (one attached to a computer) or a network printer is a simple task; simply click Add a Printer, then an installation wizard dialogue pane will appear; just follow the prompts to complete the installation.
A Network Printer differs to a local printer in that it is physically connected to another computer via a networking cable or router.
Installation of a network printer is similar to that of a local printer except that one needs to request the installation wizard to complete the installation.

Keyboard:

The keyboard options menu allows configuration of simple settings for a keyboard; these options include, Repeat delay; Repeat Rate and Cursor Blink Rate.
A shorter or longer repeat delay defines the length of delay from the moment a Keyboard Key is pressed until it displays on the screen.
Similarly the Repeat Rate defines the speed that the letters appear when a key is continually pressed down on the keyboard.
The Cursor Blink Rate gives the ‘flash rate’ of the Cursor in programs such as Word™.

Mouse:

The mouse options menu allows personalisation of settings such as; switching the roles of the primary mouse buttons (changing the Left and Right Buttons [this is particularly helpful for Left-handed operators]): Double Click speed times; Click Lock; Pointers and Pointer speed; visibility and the scroll wheel (If equipped).
Windows® XP by default has a number of selectable styles for a Mouse Pointer; these are determined by personal preference.


Game Controllers:

This particular section only applies to users that have a specialised Game Controller (for a X-Box or similar device) that requires installation; simply follow the installation instructions in the Owner’s Manual for the Controller.

Phone and modem options:

This menu is specifically for use a dial-up Internet Connection.
A set-up wizard will request prompts for the input of the ISP numbers Telephone Area Codes etc; follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Scanners and Cameras:

The majority of Scanners and Cameras available today usually have their own Installation Discs.
Installing these devices is a matter of inserting the manufacturer's Installation CD/DVD; then follow the on-screen instructions.
Once installed, the device may be viewed in this section of the Control Panel.

User Accounts.

Figure 30.




The User Accounts menu will show the following options:

• Change an account
• Create a New Account
• Change the way Users log on or off

By default Windows® XP creates two User Accounts; namely, “Administrator” and “Guest”, during the initial installation.
Note: Only an “Administrator Account” is permitted to change other accounts; a “Limited User Account”, or “Guest Account” is not able to change any account settings.

Change an Account:

When there is more than one account on a computer, this menu will allow changes to the properties of a selected account.

These options include:

• Change the name
• Change the password
• Remove my password
• Change the picture
• Change account type

Changing the Name of an account merely alters the displayed text visible at the ‘Log On Screen’ and the Start Menu.

Changing a password allows creation of a new password for a particular account.

Note: Only the owner of the account may effect password changes, as the ‘original’ password is required before any changes to a password can be made.

Removing the password removes the option of having to enter a password at the logon screen; however, this is not recommended on computers with multiple user accounts.

Change the picture allows users to change the identity for an account on the logon screen and the start menu.

Changing the account type allows the selection either Computer Administrator or a Limited User Account.
Limited User Accounts cannot change their to an Administrator Account; this must be done by the current Administrator Account holder.

Create a new account:

Creating a new account simply means add another account to the system.
Upon entering the Create a new account section there will be an option to create a ‘Limited’ or ‘Administrator’ account and to name the account, as well as, change the picture for the new account.


Date, Time, Language and Regional Options.

Figure 31.



This section deals with the following Tasks:

· Change date and time
· Change the format of numbers, dates and times
· Add other languages
· Change the date and time

Change date and time:

With all clocks, (the computer clock is no exception) over a period of time will become slower and inaccurate; the major reason is due to the Motherboard battery running down (particularly in a Laptop machine), so to adjust the time, open this task and the Date and Time Properties Panel appears.
Once open, adjust the time/date and time zone accordingly, not forgetting to check the box ‘Automatically adjust clock for daylight saving’.
It is advisable to select ‘Automatically synchronize with an Internet Time Server’; this way the time/date will always be accurate.

Change the format of numbers, dates and times:

This menu allows customisation for those programs that display data such as; Dates, Time and Currencies.
It is essential that the correct local country such as; Australia, the United Kingdom; United States, or any European area be selected from the dropdown menu.
The correct local language has to be selected from the Languages tab Menu, so too the keyboard layout is also set to the appropriate country.

Add other languages:

Additional languages may be added to a computer utilising this facility; however, for some, such as; East Asian languages, the Windows® XP CD will be required to copy the files to the Hard Disc Drive.
It is a matter of personal preference should the installation of extra languages be required.

Accessibility Options.

Figure 32.


This menu displays the following options:

• Adjust the contrast for text and colours on your screen
• Configure Windows to work for your vision, hearing and mobility aids
• Accessibility options

Accessibility options:

This menu allows configuration of items such as; Sticky keys, Filter keys, Toggle keys, Sound Sentry, Show sounds, Mouse keys and settings.

The following features are under the ‘keyboard’ tab in Accessibility Options.

Sticky keys feature allows the use of a control key on a Keyboard to have it remain active until another key is pressed; this feature is particularly useful for people who have difficulty pressing more than one key at once.
To enable this feature, check the box ‘Use Sticky Keys’.

Filter keys enable the keyboard to ignore brief or repeated strokes; enabling this feature requires placement of a checkmark in the filter keys box.

Toggle keys allow the computer to play a high-pitched sound when the Caps Lock; Scroll Lock, or Num Lock key is activated.
When pressed again, and deactivation occurs, the computer will play a low-pitched sound indicating the cancellation of this feature.
Enabling this feature is achieved simply by checking the box ‘Use Toggle Keys’.

Adjust the contrast for text and colours on your screen:

Windows® XP allows the usage of ‘High Contrast’ mode for easier reading, as an option; selecting this option will revert the appearance to the Windows® Classic Theme, similar to earlier versions of thew Operating System such as Windows® 98.

Configure Windows to work for your vision, hearing and mobility aids:

A configuration wizard assists users that are visually impaired to select the text font size that is the most readable; this includes the implementation of an on-screen magnifier.

Sound Sentry is a feature which, when a sound comes from the system speaker, flashes a designated area of the screen alerting the user that a sound came from the speaker.
Simply checking the box in the sound sentry area enables this feature.

The Show Sounds feature in Windows® XP allows certain programs to display a written on-screen caption when a program plays a sound.
To enable this feature, click the ‘Show Sounds’ checkbox.

Mouse keys allow the use of the arrows on the numeric pad on the keyboard to move the mouse cursor around the screen; this feature also allows dragging and double clicking as well.
Other options included with this feature are; shortcut for mouse keys; the pointer speed and whether or not to use mouse keys when num-lock is enabled.
Once again, to enable mouse keys, place a checkmark in the enable box in the accessibility menu under mouse.


Security Center.

Figure 33.


Figure 33 displays the Windows® XP Security Center.

The Security Center is perhaps one of the most important areas of the Control Panel, showing options for the following:

· Firewall
· Automatic Updates
· Virus Protection

Firewall:

The Windows® XP Service Pack 2 introduced an in-built Firewall for security protection from various unknown hackers etc whilst ‘surfing’ the Internet.
Exceptions may be added or removed dependent entirely upon personal preferences.

Automatic Updates:

Periodically Microsoft™ updates various system programs for Windows® XP, and this feature allows these free updates to be installed on a computer.
There are four options available with this feature:

·Automatic (Recommended)
·Download updates for me, but let me choose when to install them
·Notify me but don’t automatically download or install them
·Turn off Automatic Updates.

For total security protection, Option One (Automatic), in this instance is highly recommended.

Virus Protection:

All computers require a reputable, updated, Anti Virus Program installed, to prevent attacks from various ‘viruses’ and ‘Hi Jacks’ that are becoming commonplace when connected to the Internet.
It is pointless having an Anti Virus Program installed on a computer that is not scheduled to regularly scan the system, or to update its virus database definitions.

Note: For peace of mind, and full Security Protection, it is Highly Recommended that all three sections of the Security Center be set to the ‘On’ position.

This effectively concludes the ‘tour’ of the Windows® XP Control Panel, suffice to say that before any alterations from the default settings are made, it is advisable and recommended to create a Restore Point (as described in the System Restore Section) so as to revert back to the original settings, should they not be as desired by the operator.

Throughout this guide, the Category View of the Control Panel has been used; to access the various sections from the Classic View, in most cases it will be a matter for the user to click on the corresponding icons, to view the details of the explanations in this guide.

Enjoy using the Windows® XP Control Panel!