Indholdsfortegnelse for Issue 1 i Windows 11 The Complete Manual

BDM’s Complete Manual Series Windows 11 PC • Laptop • Surface Everything you need to master Windows 11 Since its release in October 2021, Windows 11 has rapidly become the mainstay operating system for the beginner, intermediate and advanced computer user. It’s designed to push the boundaries, to encompass the everyday digital, and help bring us closer together than ever before. It brings a fresh new look, together with powerful new code under the hood. Everything you need to help drive you into the future. This manual will guide you through Microsoft’s latest OS, offering you something new to learn on every page and providing you with the necessary knowledge to make Windows 11 work for you. In here you’ll find tutorials and tips, secrets of the OS will be…

Windows 11 - Getting Started Microsoft has greatly improved its initial Windows setup routine with intuitive guides. Where once you were simply delivered onto the desktop and left to your own devices, now Windows 11 ensures you can comfortably hit the ground running. Hello Windows 11 One of the first tasks to complete when you boot into Windows 11, is to run through the Getting Started guide. Here’s how it works. Step 1 You’ll find the Getting Started guide in the Start menu, when you click the Windows logo button on the taskbar. It’s a welcome to Windows setup wizard, and makes sure you’re ready to use your files, and get access to your work quickly and effectively. Once it has opened, click the Get Started button to continue to the…

Notifications and Quick Settings There have always been pop-up messages in Windows but now there is a centralised way in which these are viewed and interacted with. In Windows 11, this is called the Notification Center, it works more like the notifications panel on a smartphone or tablet. Exploring the Notification Center The Notification Center is an important and useful element in Windows 11, providing you with access to the calendar as well as notifications and alerts. Step 1 New notifications and alerts will pop up at the bottom-right corner of the screen (by default, but you can change the notification settings), disappearing after a few seconds. After the initial pop-up has disappeared, you can view all current notifications by clicking on the time/date in the taskbar. Step 2 You…

Using Snap Layout and Snap Groups Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, while similar to Snap Assist in Windows 10, are completely new features for Windows 11. Each is designed to make your life easier by giving you new ways to organise and retrieve apps and windows on a busy desktop. Using Snap Layouts Snap Layouts are a quick and easy way to organise a busy or cluttered desktop. They are similar to Snap Assist, but are created in a new and different way. Step 1 Snap Layouts can be created with just one open app or window, but really come into their own when several are open. Move your mouse over the Maximise button (top-right corner) of any open app or window, without clicking. After a second, a brand new…

Create and Manage Folders Despite all of the changes to the Window’s OS, folders have remained one of the core tools for organising your files. Much more than just boxes to keep your photos or music files in, folders can really help to improve how you use Windows 11 on a day-to-day basis. Creating New Folders It may seem too simple if you are a long time Windows user, but here’s a look at how to create new folders on the desktop and within other folders. Step 1On the desktop, right-click and select New folder from the action menu that appears. The familiar yellow folder icon will then appear at that position on the desktop (wherever you clicked), with the name automatically set as ‘New folder’ but highlighted ready to…

Exploring the Windows 11 Settings The main settings app in Windows 11 has been completely redesigned, making it much easier to find everything you need to keep your computer working the way you need it to. You can find the settings app in the Start menu, or open it by pressing the Windows Key + I. Privacy & Security The privacy settings contains sections for all of the main areas where your privacy may be compromised, including some which might not be obvious at first. Windows Update It is important to make sure that your Windows computer is up-to-date with all the latest updates and revisions. Here you can check to see which updates are available to download and install. System Settings These are the core settings for your computer.…

How to Use the Edge Browser The latest version of Edge, Edge Chromium, is a significant change to the original Edge browser; and offers a much better experience. Based on the Google Chrome browser, Edge is focused on modern web standards, privacy and security and has an impressive feature and tool list. Get Started with Edge Edge in Windows 11 feels much less clunky than the previous version and already feels more like the most popular browsers available, such as Chrome or Firefox. Installing Edge Edge comes pre-installed with Windows 11, and if you have upgraded from Windows 10 (and were using Edge previously) it should already be set up and working as normal. If you bought a PC with Windows 11 installed, or have never used Edge before, it…

Search in Windows 11 It’s hard to describe just how much better Search is in Windows 11, than in previous versions. Microsoft have done a lot to try to match the search functions on offer in rival operating systems, and the results can be seen in the new search feature. Step 1 If you need to search for anything on your Windows 11 PC, the taskbar search tool is now the place to do it. The search field in the taskbar from Windows 10 is no longer there. You can also access search through the Start menu, or by pressing Windows key + S on your keyboard. Step 2 In addition to files and folders, you can search for web results and apps. When you first click in the search…

Personalising Windows 11 As with all recent versions of Windows, you can completely change the look of Windows 11 to suit your own needs or style. From the desktop wallpaper and colour theme, to the icons, taskbar and lock screen, everything can be customised and personalised. Change the Desktop Background The desktop personalisation procedure hasn’t changed much since Windows 10, so if you’ve used that OS before this will feel very familiar. Step 1 You can get started with personalising the Windows 11 desktop in exactly the same way you did with Windows 10. For anyone completely new to Windows, that means right-clicking anywhere on the desktop screen and selecting Personalise from the action menu that appears. Step 2 The Background settings will be displayed first by default. Click the…

Exploring the Microsoft Store If the Desktop, Widgets, Notifications and new apps weren’t enough of an update for you, then you’re in luck as Microsoft has also updated and revamped its online Store. Giving you access to the best apps and entertainment.…

Using OneDrive Cloud Storage Microsoft’s OneDrive has vastly improved over the years. Where once it was a simple backup and online storage solution, today it’s now a connected collaborative service, with many excellent features. All of which make it one of the best cloud services available. Silver Linings Here’s a quick guide on how to get the best from your OneDrive service, and how to ensure that your important data is always backed up and safely stored within that voluminous online cloud. Step 1 You can check to see if you have Microsoft’s OneDrive already loaded on your Windows 11 computer by clicking in the notification area in the bottom-right of the desktop. You’re looking for a cloud icon. If it’s not there, simply click the Windows Start button and…

Connect Your Phone to Your PC You can connect an Android phone to both your Microsoft account and Windows 11, allowing you to view the photos on your phone from the comfort of your desktop, and even view call and SMS details on your computer as they arrive on your phone. Using the Your Phone App The setup steps for connecting a mobile device to your Windows 11 computer are the same for almost all compatible Android devices. The app offers additional features for Samsung devices. Step 1 Open the main app list from the Start menu and look for “Your Phone”. Click the app and then click the “Get Started” button on the screen that opens. You will need to sign in with the same Microsoft account on both…

Explore the Powerful Maps App Just like Google, Microsoft provides its own Maps app. This incredibly useful tool not only shows you a 2D map of anywhere in the world but also lets you see a satellite view, traffic information and even view major cities in 3D. You can even draw or write on top of maps.…

Using the Sticky Notes Tool There are lots of Windows 11 apps for making reminder lists, but sometimes you just need a simple note to jog your memory. There is a simple, and often overlooked, piece of software in Windows that allows you to add sticky notes to your screen, quickly and easily. Getting Sticky Sticky Notes has been around since the early days of Windows Vista, and has evolved over the years in line with the core operating system. It’s surprisingly effective, so here’s how it works. Step 1 Sticky Notes is available via the Windows Start button, or by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard, and typing in ‘sticky notes’ (without the quotes). Click on the Sticky Notes app that’s listed in the search results. Step 2…

Installing a Printer in Windows 11 When you connect a printer to your PC or add a new one to your home network, you can usually start printing straight away. Windows 11 supports most printers, so you probably won’t have to install special software. Here’s how to install printers in Windows 11. Install a Local Printer A local printer simply means one that is physically connected to your laptop or desktop computer via a USB data cable, rather than being connected wirelessly. Step 1 In most cases, all you have to do to set up a printer is to connect it to your PC and let the plug and play software do its work. Plug the USB cable from your printer into an available USB port on your PC and…

20 Command Line Actions for Windows 11 Ever since the early days of DOS, the command line has proved to be the ultimate playground for those who aren’t afraid to delve into its murky depths. From the command line, you can do almost anything - even within Windows 11. Take Command The command lines used to be what early versions of Windows were built on top of, but there’s still a lot that can be done from the old command line. Here are twenty cool actions for you to try out. Action 1 To open the Command Prompt, where we’ll enter the lines of commands, click on the Windows Start button and type: cmd. The first entry will be the Command Prompt. Click on this to open it. You can…

Making Calls with the Skype App Skype is now a much bigger part of Windows 11 than it once was, and has its own app that comes pre-installed with the OS. Getting to grips with the different tools in Skype is fairly simple but learning how to use it more efficiently and easily takes a little more time. Install and Use Skype Recently updated, Skype has now been turned into a proper Windows 11 app and follows the Windows design style more closely. Step 1 Skype has a dedicated Windows 11 app and this may be preinstalled on your Windows PC but you might need to download it from the Windows store. You can also download Skype directly from www.skype.com as well as check that you have the latest version…

Twitter App on Windows 11 The Twittersphere is often a place for some very interesting discussions, but also a haven for news that’s not published in the mainstream media. Like it or loathe it, Twitter has its uses and is freely available in the Windows Store; so you too can join the ‘debates’.…

Essential Windows 11 Apps The new Windows Store is crammed full of useful apps for your computer. You’ll find nearly everything you’ll ever need in here, from music to movies, performance to productivity and coding to collaboration. Here are some of the top Windows 11 apps we think are worth taking a closer look at. Minecraft Cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, Minecraft is now considered an essential app for a huge number of Windows 11 users. You don’t have to be an avid gamer, nor do you need to of a certain age, Minecraft allows you to freely explore a world that’s estimated to be bigger than the surface area of Neptune. Code Writer If you’re interested in learning how to code on Windows…

Defragment Your Hard Drive The act of Defragging your drive goes back to the early days of computing, where data was written to the drive in various sectors across the disk platters. This data could be spread all over, taking time to read, so a Defrag packs it all neatly into readable areas. Defrag Most of us have a modern PC with a relatively modern operating system installed on it, regardless of whether that’s Windows 11, macOS or the latest distribution of Linux. These systems have been updated and tweaked in accordance with the advanced hardware technology that’s now available, and will more than likely see you through a good year or so without you ever having to even look at a defrag tool. Defragging is one of those utilities…

Power Menu - Storage Sense Using Storage Sense Carrying over from Windows 10, Windows 11’s Storage Sense helps keep your computer in tip-top shape by deleting unwanted content as your hard drive begins to run out of space – which it inevitably will do. Sense and Sensibility Storage Sense looks different in Windows 11 compared to Windows 10, so if you’re used to using it, check this page out first to see how it works. Step 1 To get to the Storage Sense options, click on the Windows Start button, and go to Settings > Storage > Storage Sense. Alternatively, you can get there via the Power Menu (right-click the Windows button, or press the Windows key + X) and choose Settings, then Storage. Step 2 Click the Storage Sense…

Limiting Data Usage when Tethering Tethering means connecting your phone to the mobile data network and then connecting a second device via Wi-Fi to the phone to make use of that connection. Windows 11 can be data-heavy; a problem if your phone has limited mobile data allowance. Set Your Tethered Connection to Metered WIndows 11 can be quite data-heavy, as mentioned, especially if an update happens to become available when tethered. Luckily, you can tell Windows to automatically limit data use. Step 1 Cellular data connections are set as metered by default. Wi-Fi and Ethernet network connections can be set to metered but aren’t by default. Some apps might work differently on a metered connection to help reduce your data usage. Some updates for Windows won’t be installed automatically either. Step…

Blocking PUPs with Windows Defender PUPs, Potentially Unwanted Programs, are bits of software that can sometimes be stealthily installed when you install other free software, usually by making it a default installation option with the choice to opt out. Enable PUP blocking PUPs can include toolbars, browser extensions, adware and other unwanted software. In almost all cases, this software should be called DUPs (Definitely Unwanted Programs). Step 1 You can enable PUP protection with System Centre Config Manager, PowerShell or Microsoft Intune. For this guide, we’ll be using the PowerShell, as this is available within Windows 11 without installing any additional software; as long as you follow the instructions carefully, it isn’t as scary as it sounds. Step 2 To access the PowerShell interface, click the Windows Start button and…

Check and Optimise RAM Usage Adding RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a good way to give your PC an instant boost but before you go to the expense and trouble of installing new RAM modules, it is worth checking what is using your existing RAM and whether it can be optimised. Checking Memory and Memory Usage The first thing you need to do, when trying to optimise RAM usage and performance, is check how much you have and how it is used. Step 1 To check up on your RAM, you need to open the Task Manager. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete on the keyboard and then select Task Manager from the list that appears. If Task Manager opens showing just a simple list of tasks, click the…

How to Create a Recovery Drive A recovery drive is a useful way to ensure that you don’t lose data in the event of a critical malfunction. It can help you both troubleshoot and fix problems, even if the PC won’t start as it normally would. All you need is a blank, formatted USB flash drive. Protecting Your PC and Files Creating a recovery drive is a relatively simple process. It does however take a bit of time to create but it’s worth the effort as it could save you a lot of frustration in the future. Step 1 The first thing you need to do is find a USB drive that is large enough and then make sure it is ready to be used. The USB drive you decide…

Encrypting Your Windows 11 Laptop Windows 11 Pro comes with Microsoft’s BitLocker program to encrypt the file system; however, Windows 11 Home versions do not have this feature. Luckily, there are many other encryption programs available for download. Protecting Your PC and Files We’re going to encrypt a 2GB USB flash in this example, purely for ease of use and to demonstrate how you can encrypt your entire laptop hard drive(s). Step 1 Encryption doesn’t affect the core data, other than making it impossible to read without the decryption key. Still, it’s always worth making sure you have a backup of all your data prior to any system related changes. If you store your work or data in the Documents folder, then start by opening it in Windows Explorer. Step…

Windows 11 Maintenance Tools Before you start to add software to help with maintenance, it is worth checking out the numerous tools included with the OS. These are spread out over several menus but once you find them you will see that they can really help with security and performance. Maintaining Windows 11 Windows 11 is a lot better at keeping you informed of problems than previous versions were. It is, however, up to you to keep on top of maintaining the OS if you want the best experience. Storage Sense Activating Storage Sense lets the system software automatically free up storage space by getting rid of files you no longer need. These can include temporary files such as cookies and the contents of your Recycle Bin. You can choose…

How to Reset or Fresh Start Resetting a PC reinstalls Windows, with a choice to deletes your files, settings and apps, and main system files. Restoring will undo recent system changes, without deleting files. A Fresh Start completely removes all apps and reinstalls Windows. Fresh or Reset? Refreshing and resetting your Windows 11 PC are two very different things and you should always make sure you know which is the best choice to solve your current problem. Step 1 If your PC isn’t performing as well as it once did, and you don’t know why, you can reset your PC without deleting any of your personal files or changing your settings. Apps or software not installed through the Store will be removed but Windows store apps will be reinstalled. Step…

Troubleshooting Your Wi-Fi Network Wi-Fi is like electricity, you only notice it when it’s not working. Then panic begins to set in. Thankfully, there’s no need to, as most Wi-Fi issues can easily be fixed with a few simple tweaks here and there. Here’s our top ten troubleshooting tips for your wireless network. Slow or No Access in Some Rooms There’s a good chance that the room in question has become a bit of Wi-Fi dead zone. Load up a network analyser and check the signal output in the room in question. If needs be, reboot any network extenders and the router. Slow Internet This could one of two things: a problem with the router and your network, or a problem with the ISP. Test the connection by directly plugging…

Windows 11 Start Screen The Windows 11 desktop user interface (UI) is a radical change from what we’re used to with previous versions of Windows. The main differences are the new taskbar, Notifications and Widgets. Then and Now We’ve come a long way since the early days of Windows version 1.0. Through ups and downs, Windows has evolved to become the most used desktop operating system in the world. Over 35 years have passed since Windows 1.0 has released, let’s see what the next 35 hold for Microsoft’s OS.…

How to Use the Taskbar If you are moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11, the taskbar will likely be the first and most obvious change you notice. The taskbar has always been a useful tool, but in Windows 11 it becomes the real focus of the desktop and contains even more features and tools. Mastering the Windows 11 Taskbar The taskbar has always been more useful than many users realise. In Windows 11 the emphasis has shifted much more towards a simplified, but still powerful, selection of pinned tools/apps. Taskbar Layout The taskbar runs the full length of the bottom of the screen, and is now divided into two main sections: Start Menu/Pinned App and System Tools. In Windows 11 the taskbar app icons are arranged in the centre…

Inside the File Explorer Although the File Explorer is much the same as it was in previous versions of Windows, it’s still worth exploring it further. The File Explorer is one of the most overlooked tools in Windows, but if you want to be able to find your accumulated photos, music files, word documents and other files, without having to use Search every time, it’s definitely something you should be familiar with. Show Libraries Your Libraries in Windows 11 are preset system folders that are the default locations for your Camera Roll, Music, Saved Pictures, Documents, Pictures and Videos. You can easily have these displayed in the File Explorer. Right-click on any free area of the Navigation Pane and from the menu, click Show Libraries. You can then expand the…

Connecting Your PC to the Internet Setting an Internet connection is an important step. Windows 11 makes joining and managing networks easy, bringing all of the relevant settings together in one place, including VPN and hotspot settings; and even the Wi-Fi adaptor hardware properties. Connecting to Wi-Fi A Wi-Fi network connection is now by far the most common way people connect to the Internet. The process should be fairly familiar to you by now, but if not, here are the exact steps to connect. Step 1 If your computer is not connected to the Internet, Windows will display a small globe icon on the right side of the taskbar. You can either click this and select Wi-Fi from the quick settings, or you can open the main Settings app >…

Using Widgets in Windows 11 Widgets are desktop app previews, allowing you to see important information from Windows apps, without needing to actually open those apps. Widgets are not new, but the way they are managed and displayed in Windows 11 is new. Wonderful Widgets If you are not used to using widgets, you could be excused for hardly noticing they are a part of Windows 11. But once you do start using them, their usefulness becomes obvious. Step 1 To open the widget panel, click or tap the button in the Taskbar (the blue and white square icon) or press Windows key + W on the keyboard. The panel slides out from the left side of the screen, and will sit over the top of any other apps or…

Exploring Windows Mail Long gone are the days of Microsoft Outlook Express being included with new releases of the OS, replaced instead by the Microsoft Mail app. This app first appeared in Windows 8, was vastly improved in Windows 10, and has now been improved yet again for Windows 11. Customise Mail You can customise how the Email app looks in a number of ways, from simple changes like choosing between a light and dark theme, to setting the overall colour and changing the background image for the app. To personalise the Mail app, click the Settings button and select “Personalisation”.…

Inside the Calendar App The Windows 11 Calendar app is a fully integrated planning tool that can be linked up to your email accounts and easily synced to your other Windows devices. You can add new events manually, or you can simply use it to view national and public holidays; all of which are automatically added based on your location. Calendar Updates The new Windows 11 Calendar app is one of a number of apps that Microsoft are actively updating on a regular basis. Features were removed and added even in the first few months of Windows 11’s launch, and there’s more to come. Whether any of the previous features that were removed will return is anyone’s guess, as Microsoft is remaining silent. But, with each new update, the Calendar…

Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts Keyboard shortcuts are a useful way to speed up navigating your way around Windows 11, especially if you are using a laptop with a touchpad. There are literally hundreds to learn, but here are some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts for everyday use. Basic Keyboard Shortcuts Ctrl+C________________________________Copy the selected item Ctrl+X_________________________________ Cut the selected item Ctrl+V_______________________________ Paste the selected item Ctrl+Z ______________________________________Undo an action Alt+Tab___________________________ Switch between open apps Alt+F4______________________Close an active item, or exit an app Shift+Delete_________ Delete item without moving to Recycle Bin Ctrl+Shift+Esc________________________ Open the Task Manager Windows Key Shortcuts Windows key______________________________ Open Start menu Windows key + A____________________Open Quick Settings panel Windows key + S_______________________________ Open Search Windows key + C___________________________ Open Teams Chat Windows key + Tab___________________________Open Task view Windows…

How to use the Windows App Store The Windows App Store has been updated, and given a new look fresh for Windows 11. It’s now designed to be more efficient and easier to get to the apps you want; and those that are trending or highlighted by Microsoft. Go Shopping With more content, and more to explore, there’s a lot to cover in the Windows 11 App Store. Here’s how it works, and some of the highlights. Step 1 The Windows App Store is located, by default, within the new taskbar. It’s easy to identify, it’s the carrier bag icon with the Microsoft logo. Click it, and as long as you’re signed into a valid Microsoft account, it will launch with the latest trending and highlighted apps displayed Step 2…

Using the Focus Assist Tool Focus Assist allows you to create distraction-free periods by blocking alerts, notifications and other sounds. Turn on Focus Assist to stop distractions like social media or alternatively set it to turn on automatically at certain times during the day. Blocking Notifications Choose which notifications you want to see and hear. The remainder of your alerts will go into the Action Center so you can see them at a more convenient time. Step 1 You can easily activate Focus Assist using the quick actions panel in the Action Center. The default setting is Off. Click the Quick action button once to allow priority notifications only, click it a second time to allow alarms only. Click the button a third time to turn Focus Assist off again.…

Learn How to Import Photos in Windows 11 Importing your photos to your PC may seem like a very simple task but if you have never done it before, you can encounter problems. We take a look at importing photos from your devices; using different methods and tools already included in Windows 11. Importing to a Folder The setup steps for connecting a mobile device to your Windows 11 computer are the same for almost all compatible Android devices. The app offers additional features for Samsung devices. Step 1 The first thing you need to do to import photos directly from a phone or camera is to connect the relevant cable to your PC. In almost all cases, this will be a USB cable of some sort. You will have…

Learn How to Navigate with Maps Boasting excellent mapping, great aerial photography, up-to-the-minute traffic and the ability to calculate directions by public transport, road or foot, the Maps app is one of the very best ways to navigate. New additions make the Maps app even more useful. Moving Around in Maps There are few controls in the Maps app but they allow you to do a lot of things very easily. Let’s take a look at how you move around in the app. Step 1 The easiest way to move the map around is to left-click and drag it and use the mouse wheel or trackpad slider to zoom in and out. This allows you to move the map around to focus on the area you need. If you are…

Using the Xbox Game Bar Windows 11 has carried on the developmental work that its predecessor put in with regards to the Microsoft Xbox Game Bar. There are a wealth of sub-apps within the Game Bar app, and it’s well worth looking into in more detail. Game On! No longer solely about gaming tools, the Game Bar now includes quick panels for volume control, resource usage and even playing music. Step 1 You can open the Xbox Game Bar simply pressing the Windows Key + G, or by searching for Xbox via the Windows button on the taskbar menu. When it loads it will dim the screen and present multiple windows. Step 2 The multiple windows can be managed by clicking on the Widgets icon; the 3D window icon located…

Manage Libraries in Windows 11 Libraries are virtual containers for users’ content. A library can contain files and folders stored on the local computer or in a remote storage location. In Windows Explorer, users interact with libraries in ways similar to how they would interact with other folders. Quiet in the Library By default, Libraries are not displayed in Windows 11 – even later versions of Windows 10 did away with the Library display – so they’ll need to be reactivated for them to appear. Step 1 If you open Windows 11 File Explorer, you’ll notice that Libraries are no longer visible by default, which is a shame as many users rely on them. However, they can be returned, and the process is remarkably simple. Start by pressing the Windows…

Windows Networking Command Cheat Sheet Windows contains numerous built-in commands for networking. These utilities and tools will help you discover problems with your network, as well as help you improve performance and monitor what’s going on. Netstat Netsat actually stands for Network Statistics. This command will display connection information, routing tables and so on. Entering the command will display what’s going on while you use the network and Internet. Use netstat -e for interface stats. NbtStat The nbtstat command is a diagnostic tool for NetBIOS over TCP/IP. Its primary design is to help troubleshoot NetBIOS name resolution problems. It’ll display the human-friendly names of devices on the network along with their IP addresses. Tracert Stands for Trace Route and is used to examine the path to a remote computer, either locally or on…

Using the Cloud Clipboard Copying and pasting is something we all do. However, what do you do if you need to copy the same few things again and again and how do you copy content across your devices? The new Cloud Clipboard solves both of those problems in a single, simple interface. A New Way to Copy + Paste The Cloud Clipboard gives you a new way to cut and paste. Simply press the Windows key + V at any time and you’ll see the Cloud Clipboard panel appear in the bottom corner of the screen. Step 1 Before you can use all the features of the Cloud Clipboard in Windows 11, you will need to enable them in the settings. Go to Settings > System and look for the…

WhatsApp Desktop on Windows 11 WhatsApp has proved to be a vital addition to many of us in our daily digital lives. It’s used to keep in contact with family, friends and work colleagues, and thanks to its high levels of encryption and easy to use interface, it can be used by even hardened technophobes.…

Using the Windows 11 Task Manager The Task Manager is a very useful tool but even if you have been using Windows for some time, you might never have looked at it before. The Task Manager contains information on PC performance, the number of running apps, how many processes are pulling power from the processor and much more. View Options The View options at the top of the Task Manager window allows you to do several things. You can manually refresh the current tab and also change the automatic update speed. For example you can change how the processes are displayed. Either by grouping them by type, expanding or collapsing the list, or showing status values.…

Update Your Device Drivers Keeping your device drivers up to date ensures that your Windows 11 computer is running at its maximum efficiency. Using the latest drivers for your peripherals and internal devices improves performance and keeps Windows 11 secure. Updating Drivers There are different ways to keep your device drivers up to date. One of the easiest is via the Windows 11 Updater. Here’s how it works. Step 1 Updating your device drivers through the Windows Update service is a perfect solution for those who don’t want to trawl the manufacturer support web pages or forums for the latest drivers. To start click on the Windows button in the taskbar. Go to the Windows Update Section, and look for the Advanced Options entry. Step 2 Within the Advanced Options…

Improving the Windows 11 Firewall The built-in Windows 11 firewall is a surprisingly good security application. While it may not be as efficient as something offered by one of the third-party security suites, it’s certainly more than adequate for the average user. Getting to Know Your Firewall Generally, there’s little need to ever configure the Windows 11 firewall. However, getting to know how it works and improving it, is part of being more security conscious. Here’s some tips on how to better manage it. Step 1 You can open the main Windows 11 firewall console window by clicking on the Windows Start button and entering ‘firewall’ into the search box. Click the returned link, Firewall & Network Protection, to launch it. Step 2 The Windows 11 firewall console window should…

Protect Devices on Public Wi-Fi There are few places where you can’t now find a wireless connection for your laptop. And while this is great for those of us that want to stay connected day and night, accessing Wi-Fi in a public place does bring with it some dangers not found on your home network. What Makes Public Wi-Fi Unsafe? The very same features that make publicly accessible Wi-Fi hotspots desirable for you and us, such as the lack of authentication needed to connect, also makes them desirable for hackers. Let us start by saying that not all public Wi-Fi is equally unsafe. A coffee shop that has a new Wi-Fi password chalked up on the board every day is probably safer to use than one where the password has…

Block PUPs - Fonts Installing New Fonts Windows 11 now includes a new, easier way to install and manage system fonts. This is part of Microsoft’s ongoing process of moving all the system options and features to the main Settings interface. It even allows you to download from the Store. Install and Manage Fonts Installing and Managing fonts required a bit of effort, but now you can install any font available for download in the TrueType, OpenType or PostScript file formats. Step 1 You can now find the fonts controls in Settings > Personalisation > Fonts. Here you will see a scrollable list of your current fonts, each with a visual example of how they look. This is a much more user-friendly way of viewing your fonts, letting you see…

Create a Windows 11 System Image Backing up your files is perfectly fine, but in the event of having to wipe your hard drive and start again, getting everything back in order can be time-consuming. However, creating a system image means you can almost instantly restore the entire system. System Imaging A system image is essentially a snapshot of your entire system. This can then be quickly restored and conveniently saves you from having to reinstall WIndows 11, all your programs and your data. Step 1 To begin, click on the Windows Start button and start typing ‘control panel’, then click on the Control Panel app. From there, go to System and Security > Backup and Restore (Windows 7). Odd as it sounds, it still uses the old Windows 7…

Fix Wireless Network Connection Problems It’s certainly frustrating when you’ve just sat down at your computer to browse YouTube videos or play some online games, only to find that you have no Internet connection. If the same problem occurs when you need to start work or finish that important essay, it can cause a ripple of panic to spread through your body. Try to stay calm by focusing on fixing it and initially try these solutions. 1 Make Sure Wi-Fi is On If you are trying to connect wirelessly, check that Wi-Fi hasn’t somehow been switched off: click the Start button, select Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi. Next, select “Show available networks” and if your network appears in the list, select it, then select Connect. If using a…

Windows 11 Power Options If you use Windows 11 on a desktop PC, you might adjust the power options for how long the PC sleeps or when the display turns off when inactive. With a laptop, the Windows 11 power options should definitely be something with which you are more familiar with. View, Switch and Create Power Plans Within the Power Options panel you can choose from preset WIndows 11 power plans, or you can create your own based on your computers’ power requirements. Step 1 Click on the Windows 11 Start button and enter: Control, then click the first result, Control Panel App. From there, select System and Security > Power Options. Windows 11 will, by default, have selected the Balanced power plan. This is designed to balance performance…

Removing Malware from Windows 11 The Windows 11 Defender and Security suite is very good, but what if you’re unlucky enough to already have some form of digital infection? Thankfully, there’s a way to remove malware and viruses from your computer. Malware Busters For this tutorial we’ll use a pre-configured rescue disk from Kaspersky. We’ll need to transfer, or burn, the disk contents to a CD or a USB stick and boot into the safe environment through one of those mediums. Step 1 Make sure you have a blank CD or a USB stick that’s at least 1GB in size. The Kaspersky Rescue Disk is downloaded as an ISO (which is an image file containing all the disk information), and can be downloaded from https://www.kaspersky.com.au/downloads/thank-you/free-rescue-disk Step 2 To transfer the…

Laptop Care and Maintenance Tips Laptops are great! They are small, portable and can be easily put away when not in use. They are also increasingly powerful, although they still lag behind a good desktop system unless you pay huge sums of money for them. They are not, however, as robust as a desktop, so good care and maintenance is a must if you want your laptop to last. Caring for Your Laptop Some of these tips may seem obvious, and some might not apply to you, but even following a few of these suggestions will help keep your laptop in good shape. 1 Keep Food and Drink Away However careful you are when eating and drinking, if you do it while using your laptop it is inevitable that at…

Troubleshooting Your Wired Network Wired networks are often a lot more sturdy compared to a wireless network, but they’re not bulletproof. Thankfully, problems can easily be fixed, so here are our top ten troubleshooting tips for solving wired network issues. No Connection (one PC) If your computer is reporting no connection, it’s time to get behind the machine and double-check the Ethernet port. Check that the cable is fully inserted, as they can get caught by feet and pulled slightly. Check the cable end isn’t damaged. If there’s still no connection, check other machines (a router reboot may be needed). No Connection (all PCs) If all your computers and other devices aren’t connecting, check any switches that they’re connected to. Switch plugs, and even powerline adapters, can blow a fuse.…

Updating to Windows 11 Microsoft’s latest version of Windows hit the update servers on October 5th 2021, but it seemed many computers were still waiting for the go-ahead from their Windows Update screens, if you are one of them we can help you. Here’s how to step up the process. If you’re still on Windows 10, and waiting patiently for your update screen to display the exciting ‘Ready to update Windows 11’ notification, then this is the guide for you. Rather than tweaking with the update settings, or delving into the murky depths of the command prompt, there’s an easier way to get the ball rolling and get you on and working with Windows 11. Before You Leap Before we go about running the update process, it’s worth checking that…

How to Use the Start Menu The Start menu has been given a big makeover for Windows 11, simplified in some ways and expanded in others. It may look a bit empty when compared to the Windows 10 Start menu, but it is still the main way to access your installed apps, software and games. Get to Grips with Start If you have used Windows 10, the Start menu shouldn’t hold too many surprises for you, but it is still a good idea to familiarise yourself with its features. Step 1 The completely redesigned Start menu is opened by clicking on the Windows icon in the taskbar, or by pressing the Windows Key on your keyboard. It opens above the taskbar icons, floating in the middle of the screen. It will…

Using Task View and Multiple Desktops Task View was introduced properly in Windows 10, as a way to make multi-tasking easier and allowing the creation of extra desktop areas. In Windows 11 it’s even easier to instantly check and switch to open windows; and to create and manage multiple desktops. Using Task View Task View is a quick way to view and manage all of the windows and apps open on your PC at any given moment, even those that are minimised. Step 1 Task View is accessed by clicking the third icon in the taskbar; the white square on the black square. The Task View screen is split into two sections: Open tasks and desktops. Any apps or windows you have open, even if they are currently minimised, will…

How to Use File Explorer You can just use the powerful and improved search feature to find files and documents; but the new, simplified File Explorer is often a better choice, especially if you are looking for groups of files or want to preview several files to find the right one. What’s New in File Explorer? File Explorer is a much undervalued part of Windows. And while it hasn’t fundamentally changed for several versions of the operating system, Windows 11 has made some changes, which we’ll take you through here. Step 1 The way you browse files in Windows 11 is similar to previous versions of Windows, but File Explorer has been slightly simplified. The main Quick Access window shows you your most frequently used folders (after all, how many…

Exploring Microsoft Edge Edge continues to get better and better, and the latest version in Windows 11 is no different. You should be familiar with it if you are upgrading from Windows 10, as it is basically the same version; but let’s take a look at the newest and best features of Microsoft Edge. Edge Settings Alongside options to change the style of the Edge browser, including changing to a dark theme, are several important settings. You can choose how the Edge browser opens, showing the Start page or another specified page for example. The advanced settings include options to block pop-ups and allow Flash Player.…

How to Use the Mail App The Mail app has barely changed in the update, remaining a simple and easy way to have all of your emails in one place. If you have updated from Windows 10, your email should already be up and running. But if not, here’s how to set up the Mail app in Windows 11. Setting Up Email Accounts The Windows 11 email client can be used to view emails from multiple accounts, from your POP3 Internet provider account, to Microsoft Exchange, Gmail and even Apple’s iCloud. Step 1 If opening Mail for the first time, you will be greeted by a welcome screen, containing a link to “+Add account”. Click this to open the list of available account types. You will need the server, password…

Dates & Appointments with Calendar Digital calendars are no longer the preserve of business people scheduling appointments via email. With mobile phones now our new diaries, digital calendars are being used by increasing numbers of people to organise their busy lives. Welcome to Calendar. Setting Up Calendars The calendar can be a great productivity tool. We’ll show you how to set up your calendar, arrange events and change settings, so your calendar is exactly the way you want it. Adding Calendars Like Windows 11’s email app, Calendar also enables you to add multiple accounts; and from different providers too. So whether you use an Outlook calendar at work or have shared Google calendars, you can join them all together in the Calendar app. To Start click on Add Accounts. Sign…

How to Use Teams Chat Online meetings have been a big thing recently, so the addition of Microsoft Teams to Windows 11 makes sense. You’ll need a Microsoft Teams account set up to use the chat and video meeting tools, but once you have, remote working becomes a whole lot easier. Setting Up the Teams App Getting started with Microsoft Teams on Windows 11 is relatively easy if you have a Teams account already set up, which we assume you do if you are trying to use this app. Step 1 Click the Teams Chat icon in the taskbar, or open the Teams app in the main apps list. If your Microsoft account email matches the one you use when setting up your Teams account, the app should automatically detect…

Focus Assist - Sharing Sharing to Nearby Devices Nearby Sharing lets you share your videos, photos, documents and websites with people and devices close by, over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Useful if, for example, you’re in a meeting with colleagues and need to quickly send them a report you’re looking at on your screen. Nearby Sharing Share your files quickly with Nearby Sharing: your computer automatically picks the fastest way to share your file or webpage, either over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Step 1 To enable Nearby Sharing, open Settings and click on System. Now click on Shared experiences and turn on the Nearby Sharing option. You may be asked to sign in, or confirm sign in, if you have several accounts associated with your computer (Microsoft account, email account, etc.). Step…

How to Manage and Edit Your Photos The Photos app was first introduced in Windows 8, but it wasn’t the best experience. In Windows 11 it has been improved, even over the Windows 10 version, with better ways to browse photos and a lot more editing options to make the most of your images. Managing Your Images The Photos app has seen some useful improvements over the last few years and is actually very powerful now. It doesn’t offer the flexibility of an app like Photoshop Elements, but it does simple image management well. Step 1 Photos shows all of your images in a scrolling timeline of images, called the Collection, with some automatically created collections at the top (this can be hidden using the Hide button). You can click…

Manage Your Contacts in Windows 11 The People app has been a part of Windows 10 for some time, but in the more recent update to Windows 11, it has had an overhaul. The People app is no longer a part of the traditional taskbar, but instead Microsoft has incorporated into the Mail app. New People, New Apps Incorporating the People button into the Mail app is probably the more logical location for it; it’s just we’ve gotten used to it being its own app via the taskbar. Step 1 If you’ve not done so already, you’ll need to open the Mail app. Start the process by clicking on the Windows icon in the Windows 11 taskbar, or tapping the Windows Key on your keyboard. This will bring up the…

Screenshots with the Snipping Tool In 2018 Microsoft announced that it was abandoning the much-loved Snipping Tool in favour of a new tool called Snip & Sketch. However, with Windows 11, Microsoft has reversed that decision and has merged both apps into the new Snipping Tool. Snip, Snip! The Snipping Tool is a surprisingly powerful ally in the Windows 11 arsenal. Capturing your screen is an important element in Windows, and the Snipping Tool does exactly that, and more. Step 1 To open the Snipping Tool, you can click on the Windows Start button and type ‘snip’, then click on the Snipping Tool app as listed in the results. Or, you can press the Windows Logo Key + Shift + S to start a new Snip. Step 2 As you…

Libraries - AutoPlay How to Use AutoPlay Windows AutoPlay is a feature that was first introduced back in Windows 98. It allows newly discovered media, based on content such as images, video or music, to begin playing via the appropriate application. Rediscovering AutoPlay AutoPlay has been seen as both a blessing and a curse. How we have enjoyed slipping a DVD in the computer and sitting back to enjoy it, but swore at the machine for auto playing a CD we inserted. Funny old world. Step 1 Windows 11 seems to be having some issues with the default AutoPlay setting. At the time of writing, there’s a bug that affects some but not others, in that the Windows 11 AutoPlay feature is either disabled by default, or not. To find…

Skype in Windows 11 Although Skype took something of a backseat to Teams during the world-wide Covid-19 lockdown, it still proved immensely useful for individuals to keep in contact with loved ones and friends around the world.…

Facebook App on Windows 11 Facebook’s popularity peaks and falls with alarming regularity throughout the course of the year. However, it’s still one of the most used social media platforms. Naturally, an app is available for it in the Windows Store and, once signed in, it offers the user a wealth of options.…

Windows 11 Touchpad Gestures There’s so much you can do with gestures, and Windows 11 has greatly improved the technology over its predecessor. Some apps have their own, unique, gestures, but the default and majority are listed here. Touchy Feely Gone are the days where we paw ineffectually at our screens, like a cat trying to capture a video of a bird. Windows 11 gestures encompass nearly every aspect of the operating system. Touchpad Gestures Here are the main gestures for use on Windows 11 touchpad laptops. It’s worth noting that some of these gestures will only work with new precision touchpads. To find out if your laptop has one, click Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad. Action Select an item Tap touchpad Scroll Place two fingers…

Using the Windows 11 Defender Tools The Windows Defender set of tools may not be quite as comprehensive as one of the bigger Anti-Malware suites, such as BitDefender, but it does a good job of protecting the average user from the wealth of nasties out in the Internet. Windows Defender Dashboard The dashboard is the main screen of Windows Defender and opens when you click the “Defender shield” icon in the taskbar. It lets you check the security of your computer at a glance, but doesn’t really give you much information beyond whether an action is needed or not needed within the various security sections. Ideally, you want to see a green tick on each section of the dashboard. If you see a warning symbol, there are suggested actions that…

Monitor Tasks with the Task Manager If you have a program that isn’t working, want to control what starts up when your PC does or you want to see what’s running on your PC, then Task Manager is the place to go. Access it via the Power Menu (right-click on Start) or by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete and selecting it from the Security Options menu. Manage Your PC Task Manager is a lot more complex than it used to be and it’s now a useful insight into your PC and app performance, allowing you to check anything from Wi-Fi usage to app crashes and much more. Step 1 Task Manager starts life as this fairly unassuming little window. If you have an app that is unresponsive, select it and click End Task.…

Using the Power Menu Windows 11 boasts a secret power menu, that gives you access to several useful system and maintenance tools and features. We show you how you can use it to your advantage to quickly access networking settings and extra features that power users need. Power Up The secret Power Menu enables the more advanced Windows 11 users among you to quickly access key settings that you probably commonly use, but are buried deeper within the system. Start it Up Open the Power Menu using the Start button, but instead of just left-clicking it to open the Start menu, right-click the button. Note that you can also shut down or sign out here, too. This menu was originally created for users who felt the old Windows 8 Start…

Secure Your Home Network We’ve mentioned previously that an attack doesn’t always come from the other side of the globe but can indeed be a little too close to home at times. Home network hacking is possible with the simplest of tools; easily found on the Internet. Network Protection Without being too paranoid, it’s remarkably easy to get into a neighbour’s home network. If you live in a block of flats or you use powerline adapters, you may need to consider these ten steps for better network protection. Step 1 The most common entry point to gain access to your network is via the router. The router from your ISP may well be offering the latest forms of encryption but it doesn’t take a genius to trawl the less reputable…

How a VPN Can Improve Windows Security We’ve emphasised the enhanced privacy that a VPN offers when you’re connected to its services, and the heightened levels of anonymity, but what security benefits does a VPN bring to a Windows 11 computer with an antivirus program already installed? Security Beyond Anonymity It’s a good question: how can a VPN improve Windows security? While the privacy side is well catered for, there are some good security enhancements and features a VPN brings to the table. Feature 1 This doesn’t happen often, but an ISP can become compromised and details of user activities leaked or stolen. Using a VPN can hide your browsing activity from trackers and even your ISP, enabling you to browse without the fear of having your details leaked or…

Manage Disk Partitions in Windows 11 Disk partitioning is the creation of one or more separate regions on a PC hard disk (hard drive) and all modern drives need at least one partition to begin storing files. A partition could be the size of the whole drive or just a tiny part of it. The Disk Management Tool There are several free programs available for creating partitions but the Disk Management tool is just as good and built right in to Windows 11. Step 1 The first thing you need to do is find the Disk Management tool. The easiest way to open the tool is to use the hidden Start button menu. Right-click on the Start menu button and select Disk Management from the menu that appears. There are…

Setting Up Dual Monitors With a second monitor and the required connectors on your PC, setting up WIndows 11 to display over two screens is easy. Having a second monitor can really help to increase productivity, and allow you to stay more organised when you’re at your computer. Setting Up a Dual Display Matching up the resolution and size of your two chosen monitors will give the best results but even mismatched monitors can work really well in dual format. Step 1 You will obviously need to ensure that your PC has the requisite connections for two monitors (two HDMI, VGA or DVI ports, or a combination of these). Check the back of your PC tower or the side of your laptop to find out. With your PC turned off,…

What is Encryption? To better understand encryption, it’s worth taking a moment to learn about its origins, how it has developed over the years and how it applies to our modern communications. The word encryption comes from the ancient Greek word Kryptos, which means hidden or secret. Interestingly, the practise of hiding messages from others can be traced back to early Egyptian scribes who inserted nonstandard hieroglyphs within other communications in order to hide the message from casual viewers. According to historians, the Spartans used strips of leather engraved with messages. When the strips were read, they were meaningless, but when wrapped around a staff of a certain diameter, the characters would be decipherable. Of course, the modern forms of encryption are far more advanced, but the overall core concept…

Manage Your Privacy in Windows 11 Controlling security on your computer is important but almost as important is being able to control your privacy settings. Microsoft recently launched a web-based privacy dashboard tool and this has now become available to everyone in the Creators update. The Privacy Dashboard The privacy dashboard is web-based rather than in the settings and it allows you to manage multiple devices from a single interface, as long as you are logged in to a single account. Step 1 Open your browser and navigate to www.account.microsoft.com/privacy. If prompted, use your Microsoft account details to log in. You will be logged in to the privacy overview page that lets you quickly see what privacy settings the dashboard contains and controls. Step 2 Along with the main Search,…

Six Steps to a Faster PC A slow computer is both inconvenient and frustrating. When everything you try to do takes twice as long as it should, you might be tempted to think about buying a new PC; before you do, there are several things you can try to make your Windows 11 PC run faster and smoother. 1 Update Windows 11 and Drivers The first step along your path to a faster computer is making sure that the Windows OS and all of the various drivers installed are up to date. Simply updating drivers to the latest versions can have a noticeable effect on the overall loading speed of any PC and fortunately, this is very easy to do. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and…

Troubleshooting Windows Problems Windows 10 includes some useful tools for checking on and solving problems but sometimes you need to look a bit further and deeper. Occasionally you just need to go back to basics. These tips will help you solve some common problems encountered in Windows 11. First Things to Check If you’re having problems with Windows Update, the Windows Update Troubleshooter might be able to automatically fix the problem. Go to Microsoft.com and search for Update Troubleshooter. Windows Update Troubleshooter Microsoft knows that things don’t always go smoothly when updating and have provided a dedicated troubleshooting tool for use during this key task. If you’re having problems with Windows Update, the Windows Update Troubleshooter might be able to automatically fix the problem. Go to Microsoft.com and search for…