CompTIA A+ Full Course for Beginners - Module 10 - Configuring Windows

BurningIceTech・2 minutes read

Module 10 of the CompTIA A Plus course focuses on Configuring Windows settings in Windows 10 and Windows 11, emphasizing the differences between the two operating systems and the transition from control panel to settings app. The module covers topics such as user settings, system settings, storage management, Windows Defender, power options, app management, and administrative tools.

Insights

Windows 10 and Windows 11 have distinct start menu designs, with Windows 11 featuring icons instead of tiles and a more modern, transparent look, emphasizing customization and accessibility.
The transition from the old control panel to the new settings app in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is a gradual process, highlighting the importance of familiarizing oneself with the new control panel in Windows 11 to avoid inconvenience, with a focus on user-friendly features and enhanced accessibility.

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Recent questions

What are the main sections of Module 10?
Configuring Windows user settings and system settings.
How can one access the control panel in Windows 11?
By clicking on the settings icon in the start menu.
What is the purpose of User Account Control (UAC)?
To prompt users for confirmation before system changes.
How can users resolve the black screen issue caused by malware?
By pressing Ctrl + Delete, clicking on new task, and typing in explorer.exe.
What are the key features of Windows Update settings?
Users can schedule updates, specify active hours, and check for updates manually.

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Summary

00:00

"Configuring Windows: Modules 10 and 11"

Module 10 of the CompTIA A Plus course is the first module in Core 2, following the completion of Module 9 in Core 1.
Prior to starting Module 10, ensure you have covered all content from Module 1 in Core 1.
Module 10 is titled "Configuring Windows" and comprises two main sections: Configuring Windows user settings and Configuring Windows system settings.
The user interface of Windows 10 is discussed, highlighting its user-friendly nature and the ability to customize the start menu and taskbar.
Windows 8 and 8.1 are compared unfavorably to Windows 7 due to changes in the start button and menu layout.
Windows 10 and Windows 11 are presented, with Windows 11 featuring a different start button location and a more modern, transparent design.
In Windows 10, the start menu includes tiles that can be resized, pinned, and customized, with the option for live tiles displaying real-time information.
Windows 11's start menu features icons instead of tiles, with a recommended section for frequently accessed items and a settings icon resembling those on mobile devices.
The transition from the old control panel to the new settings app in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is discussed, with gradual changes being made to shift users to the new interface.
The new settings app in Windows 10 is shown, emphasizing the gradual shift towards this interface and the potential differences in appearance over time due to updates and changes in technology.

13:14

Windows 11 Control Panel Enhancements and Features

The new control panel on Windows 10 differs from the one on Windows 11, with Windows 11 being easier and quicker to learn.
Familiarizing oneself with the new control panel on Windows 11 is advised to avoid future inconvenience.
Accessing the control panel on Windows 10 involves typing "control panel" in Cortana, while on Windows 11, it can be found by clicking on the settings icon in the start menu.
The account settings in the new control panel include administrators and standard users, with most users being administrators for convenience.
Policies and compliance measures are used to monitor and enforce rules on users, allowing for smoother operations without constant administrative intervention.
Sign-in options on Windows 10 and 11 include pins, Windows Hello, and picture passwords for added security.
User Account Control (UAC) was introduced in Windows Vista to prompt users for confirmation before making system changes, with improvements in Windows 7.
File Explorer, a longstanding feature, allows users to navigate and explore their computer files with ease.

26:10

Navigating File Explorer and System Settings in Windows

The ability to navigate through your PC's documents, downloads, pictures, music, and videos is facilitated by the File Explorer.
Malware can target the File Explorer, preventing it from starting up automatically with Windows, causing the screen to appear black upon startup.
To resolve the black screen issue caused by malware, press Ctrl + Delete, click on new task, and type in explorer.exe to start the File Explorer.
File Explorer settings can be configured extensively, including making files or folders invisible, choosing the visibility of file extensions, and displaying file extensions for better malware detection.
Most IT professionals prefer to have file extensions visible to identify potential malware.
The first section of the module concludes with a discussion on configuring Windows system settings, delving into settings apps, control panels, and available options.
System settings in Windows 10 and 11 encompass display, sound, notifications, power, battery, storage settings, and more, with the ability to adjust display, sound, notifications, and power and sleep options.
The storage settings in Windows 10 provide insights into hard drive space usage, allowing users to manage temporary files and free up space by deleting unnecessary files.
Windows 11 mirrors the organization of system settings found in Windows 10, offering a similar layout and options for display, sound, notifications, and system information.
Update and security settings in Windows 10 and 11 are crucial for keeping the system up to date and secure, with Windows Defender serving as a built-in antivirus that updates automatically with system updates. Users can schedule updates, specify active hours to prevent disruptions, and check for updates manually.

39:19

"Windows 11: Customize Power and Updates Easily"

The device automatically adjusts based on your activity, tracking your most active times.
You can specify your active hours or stick to default settings like 8 am to 5 pm.
Windows 11 is busy downloading and installing updates.
Windows Update is easily accessible for manual updates or checking update history.
Power options include Balanced, Power Saver, and High Performance modes.
Custom power plans can be created to save more power or enhance performance.
Windows features can be added or removed in the Control Panel.
Store apps from the Windows Store offer various apps, including third-party options.
Desktop apps are traditional apps installed from discs or downloads.
App settings allow for app uninstallation and setting default programs for file types.

51:56

Uncovered administrative tools beyond course content

Not all administrative tools are covered in the course, including some that are not even included in the CompTIA N plus course. Various methods, such as accessing the MMC console or using MS config, can be employed to find these tools.
To access administrative tools not covered in the course, one can utilize methods like the MMC console or MS config, which provide alternative ways to find these tools beyond the course content.

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