20+ Windows features you didn’t know about

Linus Tech Tips16 minutes read

Windows has faced ongoing issues since its inception, with little fundamental change over time. The Group Policy editor allows users to adjust settings like hiding certain options or disabling Windows features, with alternatives like Policy Plus offering similar functionality.

Insights

  • The Group Policy editor in Windows allows users to modify settings and features, including hiding options and disabling features, while Policy Plus serves as an open-source alternative with similar capabilities, though not readily available on home editions.
  • Task Scheduler and Power Toys offer advanced functionalities like customizing app startup behaviors, window management simplification, and quick task access akin to Apple's Spotlight search, with additional utilities from CIS Internals for advanced system troubleshooting, showcasing Windows' flexibility and customization options beyond the surface level.

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Recent questions

  • How can I adjust Windows settings?

    Using the Group Policy editor, users can modify settings like hiding options or disabling features in Windows.

  • What is an alternative to Group Policy editor?

    Policy Plus is an open-source alternative to Group Policy editor that offers similar functionality for adjusting Windows settings.

  • How can I start apps with admin privileges at startup?

    Task Scheduler in Windows allows users to configure apps to start with admin privileges at startup without prompts, providing customization options for automatic app running.

  • What are Power Toys in Windows?

    Power Toys are Microsoft's extensions to Windows that offer various functions like Fancy Zones for window management and Power Toys Run for quick task access.

  • What utilities does CIS Internals offer?

    CIS Internals, acquired by Microsoft, provides utilities like Auto runs, Process Explorer, and TCP view for advanced system troubleshooting, offering tools for in-depth system analysis and management.

Related videos

Summary

00:00

"Windows Issues and Tools for Customization"

  • Windows has faced ongoing issues since its inception, with little fundamental change over time.
  • The Group Policy editor allows users to adjust settings like hiding certain options or disabling Windows features.
  • Group Policy editor is not available on home editions of Windows by default but can be forced using specific commands.
  • Policy Plus is an open-source alternative to Group Policy editor with similar functionality.
  • Task Scheduler can be used to start apps with admin privileges at startup without prompts.
  • Task Scheduler allows for customization of when and how apps run automatically.
  • Power Toys are Microsoft's extensions to Windows, offering various functions like Fancy Zones and Power Toys Run.
  • Fancy Zones in Power Toys simplifies window management for non-traditional desktop layouts.
  • Power Toys Run functions like Apple's Spotlight search, offering quick access to various tasks.
  • CIS Internals, acquired by Microsoft, offers utilities like Auto runs, Process Explorer, and TCP view for advanced system troubleshooting.

14:10

"Quick PC Restart Tips and Game Recommendation"

  • To restart your PC immediately after hitting enter, ensure you type the command correctly; if not, press escape and retry the process. Additionally, you can create shortcuts to reboot into UEFI settings or advanced startup settings using specific commands, helpful for scenarios like rebooting a headless machine or troubleshooting display issues.
  • Explore various commands like shutdown for additional functionalities beyond basic restarts; refer to Microsoft's website for more command options. For a comprehensive vehicle combat game experience, try War Thunder, available for free on PC and gaming consoles, offering over 2,000 historically accurate vehicles and immersive combat gameplay with a focus on visible damage and diverse PvP styles.
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