Vista - Tips, Tricks & Tweaks

[Herby]

The #1 Tip of all Tips: Don't underestimate the power of the Help button!

Windows Vista Help: Help that really helps

Click Start and then click Help and Support. The Help and Support window will open. You?re in. You?ve already gone further than many, many others.

I bet that you?ll find your answer after reading just one or two topics, without hunting around the entire Help system. Here?? A new voice for Windows.ndows. No, it?s not Clippy II. Help is easier to understand than in previous versions of Windows. It uses the language you use. You?ll notice the? Help topics originate from your questions.r questions. We created topics based on common questions and problems. This is why Help topic titles often reflect the question you are likely asking or the problem you're trying to solve. You?ll know it ? Certain topics deliver certain types of content.ypes of content. Quick answers, procedures, troubleshooters, and FAQs give you answers quickly, while articles use a longer format to provide more information, best pr? Help has more than 750 illustrations and screen shots to show you the way. sExtra credit:

Extra credit: Read alReward:topics. Reward: You?ll know a lot about Windows.

Flaunt your skills as you help your family and friends with their computer problems.

Keyboard shortcutsUltiMouse Task Controller[/size]

This program turns the Mouse into a Task Controller without losing the default functioDouble Click Middle Mouse Button Click Middle Mouse Button -Back Button + Scroll Up/Downck Button + Scroll Up/Down -> Cycle t*rMiddle Mouse Button + Scroll Up/Downse Button + Scroll Up/Down -> Cycle through Sidebar Gadgets * NEW *[/size]

Windows Sidebar Styler is an application designed to allow users to tweak the Sidebar?s User Interface.

Custom styles allow users to customize the appearance of Windows Sidebar so that it fits the style of other UI elements, such as the Aero Glass colorization or third party themes.

You can save your visual styles and share them with other users.

​ ​ ​ ​

Windows Sidebar Styler also adds support for WPF Gadgets; Gadgets now take full advantage of Windows Presentation Foundation - a powerful managed code-oriented framework for presenting rich visual compositions such as vector graphics, 3D ? ?Original: ? d more.

? ?Original: ?

The visual styles below remove the grey Panel background, the "Add Gadgets" button + the Close, Config & the Gripper buttons that appear when you hover over the Gadgets (see image above). You can still access these functions in the right click menu from the Sidebar & Gadgets. The Minimalist| Homepage | Forum | Binaries: 32-bit, 64-bit | Minimalistic.wsstyles | MinimalistiClear.wsstyles |tyles"]MinimalistiClear.wsstyles[/url] |

Deleting the Undeletable (source)

As many of us move forward from Windows XP or prior beta versions of Windows Vista to the final RTM version, I thought this little tip might be in order. You may be aware that Windows Vista includes a number of different ways to upgrade a computer, from a straight in-place upgrade (insert CD, run setup and choose upgrade) to Windows Easy Transfer, which allows you to copy settings, programs and data from an old setup a fresh shiny new OS environment. In doing this, it's not unusual to find some folders that can't be accessed, even by an administrator, because their ACLs were set for accounts with SIDs that applied to an old partition.

How do you take it back? -> The secret lies in two command-line utilities, one ancient, the other completely revised for this release. Respectively, these are takeown (which takes ownership of a file or directory) and icacls (which sets new ACLs on that directory). I created a small batctakeown /f %1 /r /d y

icacls %1 /grant administrators:F /tn /f %1 /r /d y

icacls %1 /grant administrators:F /t

From an elevated command prompt, you can run a command such as itsmine D:\hard_to_delete and this will reset ownership and ACLs on the hard_to_delete directory such that a command like rd /s D:\hard_to_delete should work.

Take Ownership Context Menu Item

TakeOwn.reg adds a Take Ownership Context Menu Item to all files and folders. It opens an Elevated Command Prompt which recovers full access to the selected file / directory, sub directories and their content.

You can access the Context Menu Item by holding down Shift + right-click on a file or folder.

    

If you want to access the Take Ownership Context Menu Item on an exe file, you must merge "RunAsAdmin_Exe-.reg"; this reg file removes the "Run as Administrator" Context Menu Item from all exe files (they both use the runas key). Merge "RunAsAdmin_Exe+.reg" if you want to restore the "Run as Administrator" Context Menu Item.

Install: Merge TakeOwn+.reg

Uninstall: Merge TakeOwn-.reg

> TakeOwn.zip ( 1,99 KB )

Enable Advanced Disk Performance

When enabled, the hard disk drive operates in write-back cache mode, in which all the data that gets written to the drive is first stored in the cache, and then later written to the disk. Both writes and reads are cached in this case. When disabled, the HDD operates in write-through cache mode, in which all data that gets written to the drive is immediately written to the disks and also storeNote:he. Writes are not cached, but reads are.

Note: This setting is recommended only for disks with a backup power supply, it further improves disk performance, but it also increases the risk of data loss if the disk loses power.

Open Device Manager, expand Disk drives, right-click on a Disk drive, click Properties, click the Policies tab, select the Enable advanced performance check box, and then click OK.

Resize the Details Pane

Right-click on an empty part of the Details Pane and select one of the sizes:

Customize / hide the Favorite Links list[/size]

The Navigation Pane is devided into two sections: Favorite Links & Folders.

The Favorite Links contains links to commonly used folders and saved searches.

You can add new links by dragging folders and/or saved searches into the list.

You can also drag folders from the Folders list to the Favorite Links section.

This is a convenient way to quickly access folders and searches you use often.

You can reposition a link by dragging it to the position where you want it to be.

To remove a link from the list, right-click on the link and select Remove Link.

Restore default links: right-click a blank area and select Restore Default Favorite Links.

Hide Favorite Links: drag the Folders list to the top of the Navigation Pane (see picture).

​ ​ ​ ​

Shell Commands for Windows Vista (source)

The shell: command can be used to open a special folder directly from the Start, Search menu. For example, the command shell:SendTo opens the SendTo folder (%UserProfile%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\SendTo). To launch the Documents folder of your User Profile, you'd type shell:Personal. Below is a complete shell: commands listing for Windows Vista. The entire listing is[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\explorer\FolderDescriptions]urrentVersion\explorer\FolderDescriptions]

shell: commands for Windows Vista:

shell:AddNewProgramsFolder - shell:Administrative Tools - shell:AppData - shell:AppUpdatesFolder - shell:Cache - shell:CD Burning - shell:ChangeRemoveProgramsFolder - shell:Common Administrative Tools - shell:Common AppData - shell:Common Desktop - shell:Common Documents - shell:Common Programs - shell:Common Start Menu - shell:Common Startup - shell:Common Templates - shell:CommonDownloads - shell:CommonMusic - shell:CommonPictures - shell:CommonVideo - shell:ConflictFolder - shell:ConnectionsFolder - shell:Contacts - shell:ControlPanelFolder - shell:Cookies - shell:CredentialManager - shell:CryptoKeys - shell:CSCFolder - shell:Default Gadgets - shell:Desktop - shell:Downloads - shell:DpapiKeys - shell:Favorites - shell:Fonts - shell:Gadgets - shell:Games - shell:GameTasks - shell:History - shell:InternetFolder - shell:Links - shell:Local AppData - shell:LocalAppDataLow - shell:LocalizedResourcesDir - shell:MAPIFolder - shell:My Music - shell:My Pictures - shell:My Video - shell:MyComputerFolder - shell:NetHood - shell:NetworkPlacesFolder - shell:OEM Links - shell:Original Images - shell:Personal - shell:PhotoAlbums - shell:Playlists - shell:PrintersFolder - shell:PrintHood - shell:Profile - shell:ProgramFiles - shell:ProgramFilesCommon - shell:ProgramFilesCommonX86 - shell:ProgramFilesX86 - shell:Programs - shell:Public - shell:PublicGameTasks - shell:Quick Launch - shell:Recent - shell:RecycleBinFolder - shell:ResourceDir - shell:SampleMusic - shell:SamplePictures - shell:SamplePlaylists - shell:SampleVideos - shell:SavedGames - shell:Searches - shell:SearchHomeFolder - shell:SendTo - shell:Start Menu - shell:Startup - shell:SyncCenterFolder - shell:SyncResultsFolder - shell:SyncSetupFolder - shell:System - shell:SystemCertificates - shell:SystemX86 - shell:Templates - shell:TreePropertiesFolder - shell:UserProfiles - shell:UsersFilesFolder - shell:Windows

Repartition a hard disk by using Note:eature[/size]

Note: Backup Operator or Administrator is the minimum membership required to complete the actions below.

Caution:[/color] If the partition is a raw partition (that is, one without a file system) that contains data (such as a database file), shrinking the partition may destroy the data! For detailed information, open Disk Management, click Help on the menu bar, click Manage Basic Volumes, and then click Shrink a Basic Volume.

Shrink an existing partition to create new unallocated space, from which you can create a new partition:

Open the Start Menu, right-click on Computer, click Manage, expand Storage & select Disk Management.

Right-click a partition, select Shrink Volume, Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB & click Shrink.

Right-click the new unallocated space, click New simple volume, click Next, Enter the Simple volume size in MB, click Next, assign a drive letter, click Next, Enter the Volume label, click Next, and then click Finish.

[/size]

On a computer that has 4 GB of RAM, the System Properties dialog box and the System Information dialog box may report less memory than you expect. This problem occurs because the address space is limited to 4 GB in a 32-bit hardware environment. Memory may be relocated to make room for addresses that the basic input/output system (BIOS) reserves for hardware. However, because of this limitation, Windows Vista cannot access memory that is relocated above the 4 GB bouBCDEdit /set pae ForceEnableCommand Prompt, type and press Enter.

The pae parameter enables Physical Address Extension (PAE). On 32-bit versions of Windows, PAE is disabled by default. PAE is an addressing strategy that uses a page-translation hierarchy to enable systems with 32-bit addressing to address more than 4 GB of physical memory. PAE also supports several advanced system and processor features, such as Data Execution Prevention (DEP; "No execute"), Non-Uniform Memory Architecture (NUMA), and hot-add memory, so it is also used on computers with less than 4 GB of memory. PAE must be supported by the processor.

On a computer that supports hardware-enabled Data Execution Prevention (DEP), PAE is automatically enabled when DEP is enabled and automatically disabled when you disable DEP. To enable PAE when DEP is disabled, you must enablBCDEdit /set nx AlwaysOff & BCDEdit /set pae ForceEnable/set nx AlwaysOff & BCDEdit /set pae ForceEnable and press Enter.

Info & Sources:

? Memory Limits for Windows Releases

? Windows Vista may report less memory than you expect

? Boot Parameters to Configure DEP and PAE

? BCDEdit /set Parameters

Advanced Searches & Natural Language Search[/size]

Windows will usually search for whatever you enter in the Search box by looking in the file name, file contents, and file properties of all the files in the current view. Type "Summer," for example, and it will find files named "sunset in summer.jpg," files tagged with "summer," and files writWindows Desktop Search query syntaxces/advanced.mspx"]Windows Desktop Search query syntax[/url]. If you want to search more selectively, you can filter your search by specifying which file property to search. To filter by file property, separate the name of the prkind:he searartist: colon, as in these examples:

kind: music Name:Sting -> Find music files from the artist Sting.

Name: Sunset -&Modified:les that have the word sunset in the file name.

Modified: 05/25/2006 -> Find only files that have been modified on that date.

You can filter by any property that appears in the file list headings. To see the complete list of properties that you can filter by, right-click the heaBoolean filtersroperties for, and then click More. Using Boolean filters is another way to perform a more precise seANDcan combine them with other search filters:

tropical AND island -> Find files that contain bNOT"tropical" and "island".

tropical NOT island -> Find files that contain the ORt;tropical", but not "island".

tropical OR island -> Find files that contain " words "tr"or "island".

"tropical island" -> Find f(t contain the e)ase "tropical island".

(tropical island) -> Find files that contain both words &>al" and "island", in any order.

date: > 01/05/06 -> Find files that are more th< than a certain value, such as after 01/05/06.

size: < 4 MB -> Find files that are less than or earlier than a certain value, such as less than 4 MB.Note: When you type Boolean filters like AND or OR, you need to use all capital letters!ers like AND or OR, you need to use all capital letNatural Language Searchan>

If you turn on Natural Language Search, you can perform searches in a simpler way, without using colons and without the need to enter AND aWithout natural language:ample, compare these searches:

Without With natural language:usic artist: (Beethoven OR Mozart)

With natural language: music Beethoven or Mozart

To turn on Natural Language Search: Open the Control Panel, click Appearance and Personalization, click Folder Options, click the Search tab, select the Use natural language search check box, click Apply and then click OK.

Change services according to your computer config[/size]

? Windows Vista Service Configurations by Black Viper

? Disabling Services guide by Slimy

? SpeedyVista - Service Guide

<Generate a System Diagnostics reportne-height:100%">Generate a System Diagnostics report[/size] (view details about system health and performance)

Windows Reliability and Performance Monitor uses performance counters, event trace data, and configuration information, which can be combined into Data Collector Sets. You can generate a report detailing the status of local hardware resources, system response times, and processes on the local computer along with system information and configuration data. This report includes suggestions for ways to maximize performance and streamline system operation.

Open the Control Panel, click Performance Information and Tools, click Advanced Tools (Tasks pane on the left), clicperfmon /reportalth report. Or,.. press the Windows button, type perfmon /report and press Enter.

<Enable or disable Secure Logon (Ctrl+Alt+Delete)0%">Enable or disable Secure Logon (Ctrl+Alt+Delete)[/size]

It's important to keep your computer as secure as possible. One way to do so is to enable Secure Logon so that you are required to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to log on. Using secure logon provides an additional layer of security for your computer by ensuring that the authentic Windows logon screen appears. When secure logon is enabled, no other program (such as a virus or spyware) can intercept your user name and password as you entenetplwizanced User Accounts -> Press the Windows button, type netplwiz and press Enter.

Click the Advanced tab, select the Require users to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete check box, and then click OK.

<Turn Windows Features on or offpt;line-height:100%">Turn Windows Features on or off[/size]

Some programs and features that are included with Windows, such as Internet Information Services, must be turned on before you can use them. Certain other features are turned on by default, but you can turn them off if you don?t use them.

In earlier versions of Windows, to turn a feature off you had to uninstall it completely from your computer. In this version of Windows, the features remain stored on your hard disk, so you can turn them back on if you want to. Turning off a feature does not uninstall the feature, and it does not reduce the amount of hard disk space used by Windows features.

   

Open the Control Panel, click Programs, click Turn Windows features on or off in the Programs and FOptionalFeaturescture above). Or,.. press the Windows button, type OptionalFeatures and press Enter.

   

To turn a Windows feature on, select the check box next to the feature.

To turn a Windows feature off, clear the check box.

Switch, Change or Set 64-Bit WMP11 in Vista x64 as Default/sizeo-->Switch, Change or Set 64-Bit WMP11 in Vista x64 as Default[/size] (source)

In Windows Vista x64, the 32-bit edition of Windows Media Player 11 (WMP 11) is set as the default Windows Media Player. This is done to avoid and reduce any compatibility issues or problems that may arise with codecs or other DirectShow related plug-ins or add-ons that majority of them still built for 32-bit operating system. However, if you decide to use the 64-bit version of WMP11 with your 64bit version of Windows Vista, especially now that more and more codecs support 64-bit computing platform, and a x64 FFDShow codec which can decode virtually any audio or video media files has been released, you can use a few easy methods to launch 64 bit WMP11 or simply switch, change or swap the system default media player to x64 Windows Media Player, and revert back to x86 version w%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Windows Media Playeris located at path of %ProgramFiles(x86)%%ProgramFiles%\Windows Media Player64 is located at folder of %ProgramFiles%\Windows Media Player. So the first method to use 64-bit Windows Media Player%Programfiles%\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exeon, type %Programfiles%\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe and press Enter. Alternatively, you can create a shortcut with target and location set to the above, and place the shortcut on the Desktop or in Quick Launch for easy access.

Second method: You need to perform 2 steps each to swap to 64-bit version or to undo the change back to 32-bit version WMP. The unregmp2.exe command (first step) changes the operating system shortcuts to point to WMP 64bit, while the second registry step changes the file associations default program to WMP64-bit, which determines which program will be used whenunregmp2 /SwapTo:64ia file.

Open an Elevated Command Prompt, type unregmp2 /SwapTo:64 and press Enter.

Then, oHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\wmplayer.exesoft\Windows\CurPath\A%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Windows Media Playerkey Pat(Default)ProgramFile?%ProgramFiles%\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe?key to ?%ProgramFiles%\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe?unregmp2 /SwapTo:32o the x64 change, open an Elevated Command Prompt, type unregmp2 /SwapTo:32 and press Path, ope(Default)ditor, and reset the value for registry subkey of Path and (Default).

With either one of two methods, you will have complete full x64 Windows Media Player experience.[Make your Admin account act like in XP:12pt;line-height:100%">Make your Admin account act like in XP[/size]

Make your Vista's admin account act like in XP guide by TReplace Vista's startup sound-size:12pt;line-height:100%">Replace Vista's startup sound[/size]

How to replace Vista's startup sound guide by rChange the Start Menu Power button to Shut Down instead of Sleep--/sizeo-->Change the Start Menu Power button to Shut Down instead of Sleep[/size]

Open the Control Panel and click on Power Options. Select the Power Plan that you want to use and click on "Change plan settings". Click on Change advanced power settings, double click on "Power buttons and lid". Double click on "Start menu power button", change the Setting to Shut down.

Or,.. merge PowerButtonShutdown.reg and Log off or Restart to apply changes.

> PowerButton.zip ( 1,3Windows 2000 Style Shut Down Dialog Box12pt;line-height:100%">Windows 2000 Style Shut Down Dialog Box[/size]

Select the Taskbar or the Desktop and press Alt+F4.

   

I've created a little app that opens the same Dialog :)x, just extract it to anywhere you want and create a shortcut in Quick Launch. :)

> ShutDDB.zip ( 20Extended Disc Cleanup style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%">Extended Disc Cleanup[/size]

The command line parameters sageset & sagerun still work in Vista. You can set it to delete files from a previous Windows installation, error dump files, Temporary Windows installation fNote:ails, Files discarded by Windows upgrade, Error Reporting Files, ect. Note: It performs a Disc Cleanup on all disks.

You can use the s%SystemRoot%\System32\Cmd.exe /c Cleanmgr /sageset:65535 & Cleanmgr /sagerun:65535System32\Cmd.exe /c Cleanmgr /sageset:65535 & Cleanmgr /sagerun:65535

Edit the shortcut (Right click and select Properties), set it to run Minimized and change the Icon to %SystemRoot%\System32\Cleanmgr.exe.

> ExtendedDiscCleanup.zip ( 660 bAdd Search Providers to Internet Explorer 7;line-height:100%">Add Search Providers to Internet Explorer 7[/size]

To add a provider to the Internet Explorer 7 Instant Search box, click on the down arrow (next to the search glass) at the Search box & click on "Find More Providers". Select one of the Web Search or Topic Search providCreate Your Owno the list, you can add custom Search provider's in the Create Your Own section on the right.

You can switch the search provider by clicking on the down arrow at the Search box -> select the provider that you want to use. The search provider's are saved in the registry, I've exported some of my favorites, just merge them + restart Internet Explorer and they are added to the list.

The zip file below contains the following SearchScopes:

? deviantART - All, Digital:)rt, Icons, Photography, Skins & Themes + Wallpapers (find that lost wallpaper :))

? Event ID (Enter an Event ID number to get the description)

? Google & Google Image Search

? IMDb Search (Movie Database)

? Ixquick Metasearch & I:Duick Picturesearch

? MetaCrawler

? MSDN Enhanced Search

? Neowin Forums :D

? SourceForge.net

? Wikipedia

? YouTube

> SearchAdd Internet Explorer to the Desktop->Add Internet Explorer to the Desktop[/size] (with Context Menu like in Windows XP)

? ??

Add: merge IE2Desktop.reg

Remove: merge IE2Desktop-.reg

> IE2Enable Data Execution Prevention (DEP) in Internet Explorer 7ze:12pt;line-height:100%">Enable Data Execution Prevention (DEP) in Internet Explorer 7[/size] (source)

Because browsers can host plug-in extensibility, security settings within the browser can make plug-ins fail. This is why in Internet Explorer 7 Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is off by default. Two of the most well-known and commonly used browser plug-ins, the Adobe Acrobat/Reader browser helper object and the Adobe Flash Player, now run when DEP is enabled. You can enable DEP by navigating to the following dialog and checking the highlighted option shown below (note, you must elevated to admin first, otherwise the option is grayed out).

? ? EasyBCD is NeoSmart Technologies' multiple award-winning answer to tweaking the new Windows Vista bootloader. With EasyBCD, almost anything is possible. Setting up and configuring Windows boot entries is simple, and there is no easier way to quickly boot right into Linux, Mac OS X, or BSD straight from the Windows Vista bootloader - on the fly, no expert knowledge needed!

Automated MBR and BCD backups, boot sector restore kits, support for a dozen+ operating systems, detailed configuration of all boot entries, and award-winning guaranteed technical support is what makes EasyConfiguring User Account Control (UAC):3-->Configuring User Account Control (UAC)[/size]

? What is User Account Control

? User Account Control Step by Step Guide

? Configuring User Account Control settings

If you want to reduce your mousTurn User Account Control on or Offo turn it off: Open the Start Menu and click on your User Picture, click Turn User Account Control on or Off, clear the "Use User Account Control (UAC) to help protect your computer" check bMake User Account Control (UAC) Stop Blacking Out the Screen="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%">Make User Account Control (UAC) Stop Blacking Out the Screen[/size] (Windows Vista Business/Ultimate Users:[/b]ol-uac-stop-blacking-out-the-screen-in-windows-vista/"]source)

Windows Vista Business/Ultimate Users:

To get to the configuration screen for this, type in security to the start menu search box.

You should see the Local Security Policy as the top search item.

In the Local Security Policy window, browse down to Local Policies \ Security Options.

Over in the right hand part of the window, scroll down near the bottom and find the item titled ?User Account Control: Switch to theNote:top when prompting for elevation?

Double-click on the item, andWindows Vista Home Users:click OK.

Note: This dregeditsystem slightly less secure, so be warned.

Windo[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System]ey:

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System]

You should see a key called PromptOnSecureDesktop. Use BitLocker Drive Encryption without TPM chipo:3-->Use BitLocker Drive Encryption without TPM chip[/size] (source)

Windows Vista includes a new hard drive encryption feature called BitLocker Drive Encryption. BitLocker can be a very useful security feature for businesses and home users that have sensitive and confidential information stored on their computer. Unfortunately, BitLocker Drive Encryption by default requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM Chip) version 1.2 or later installed in your computer. A lot of the computers and laptops on the market do not come with TPM chips installed since they are typically only found in premium model business computers. If you have Windows Vista Business, Ultimate or Enterprise but do not have a TPM chip, you can still use BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Hidden away in local group policy is a setting that will allow you to turn on the ability to use a USB storage device instead of a TPM key to store the encryption key. This is a great feature for users that don't have the latest high-end hardware because you can still use hard drive encryption. However, every time you turn on your computer, the USB storage device that has the encryption key located on it must be plugged in. Without it, your computer will not boot up. One BitLocker Drive Encryption is setup with a Ugpedit.msc, that USB storage device basically becomes the key to your computer.

Press the Windows button, type <BitLocker Drive Encryption

Navigate through: Computer Policy, Administrative Templates, Windows Components and BitLocker Drive Encryption. Right click on Control Panel Setup: Enable advanced startup options and select PropToggle Check Boxes Context Menu Item]

Toggle Check Boxes Context Menu Item

You can set up Windows to add check boxes to file views (see picture) to make it easier to select several files at once.

This gives you the option to select files without having to press keys on your keyboard, and helps ensure that you won't accidentally lose your file selection if you click the wrong location.

    http://www.herbystweaks.net/images/CheckBoxes.png' alt='CheckBoxes.png'>

You can enable this feature in "Folder and Search Options":

Open a Folder, click the Organize button, click "Folder and Search Options", click the View tab, select the Use check boxes to select items check box, and click OK.

The files in the zip file below add a "Toggle Check Boxes" Context Menu Item to all folders.

You can access the Context Menu Item by holding down Shift + right-click on/in a folder.

Install: Copy TCB.exe to your Windows directory and merge "Add ToggleCheckBoxes.reg".

Uninstall: Remove TCB.exe from your Windows directory and merge "Remove ToggleCheckBoxes.reg".

> Enable the Aurora boot screen[/b]70 KB )

Enable the Aurora boot screen (source)

If you are tired of tmsconfig screen in Windows Vista, there is a better looking one hidden away:

1) Press the Windows button, type msconfig and press Enter.

2) If User Account Control prompts you to allow the action, click on Continue.

3) In the "System Configuration" window, click on the Boot tab.

4) Select your Windows Vista installation and under "Boot options", check "No GUI boot".

Press OK.

5) In the dialog that appears, check "Don?t show this message again", and then click on Restart.

6) Your computer will now reboot, and you will see the Aurora boot screen with text Disable Hibernation & delete the Hibernation file->Disable Hibernation & delete the Hibernation file[/size] (source)

Windows places a file on your hard drive that it uses when your computer goes into hibernation mode. If you do not use hibernation mode, or your computer does not properly support it, you may want to disable hibernation and clear the file off your hard drive to free up some space (the file will use asDisable Hibernation:physical memory, so if you have 1GB of RAM, it?s going to use 1GB of your hard drive space).

Disable Hibernation:

1. Click Start, All Programs, and then right click on "Command Prompt".

2. From the context menu click on "Run as administrator".

3. If User Account Control prompts you to allow the action, click on Continue.

4. Delete the Hibernation File:"powercfg ?h off" (without the quotes).

4. Close the Command Prompt window.

Delete the Hibernation File:

1. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then click "Disk Cleanup".

2. If prompted to choose a drive, select the drive in which Windows Vista is installed on to and press OK.

3. Disk Cleanup will scan the hard drive and present you with a list of options.

4. Check "Hibernation File Cleaner", and then click OK.

5. When asked "Are you sure you want to permanently delete thesHidden Open Command Window Here Context Menu itemsizeo:3-->Hidden Open Command Window Here Context Menu item[/size]

Open a folder, press SNameless Recycle Binen Command Window Here

Nameless Recycle Bin

Everybody can see, by looking at the icon, that it's the Recycle Bin right?.., so why name it?!

Merge RecycleBin_NoName.reg and refresh your Desktop and the name is gone.

Merge RecycleBin_Default.reg and refresh your Desktop to restore the name.

> Enhanced Recycle Bin Menu[/b]rl] ( 881 bytes )

Enhanced Recycle Bin Menu

ERBM+.reg replaces the Delete command from the Recycl:)Bin with a Clear Temp command.

This prevents users from accidentally deleting the Recycle Bin Icon from the Desktop. :)

It also adds a Disk Cleanup command which performs an Extended Disc Cleanup on all disks.

The Clear Temp command clears both Temp dirs: %UserProfile%\AppData\Local\Temp and %SystemRoot%\Temp.

   

Install: merge ERBM+.reg

Uninstall: merge ERBM-.reg

> Add Window Switcher to the context menu from all folders[/b]-->Add Window Switcher to the context menu from all folders[/size]

The reg file in the zip file below adds the Window Switcher (Flip 3D) command to the Right click menu from all folders (including the Desktop).

> Huuuuuuuge Icons on your Desktop[/b]93 bytes )

Huuuuuuuge Icons on your Desktop

Click on your Desktop, press Ctrl + Scroll Up (this works in any folder).

You can make them larger then when you select Large Icons from theWindows Defender: Command Line Parameters.

Windows Defender: Command Line Parameters

Example: "%Progra-UpdateAndQuickScander\MSASCui.exe" -Hide -CheckForUpd-CheckForUpdates; hide Windows Defender w-FullScanAndQuickScan -> C-QuickScan+ launch Quick Sca-ScanResultses -> Check for Upda-Settings -> Full Syste-ShowSWEkScan -> Quick Sca-ShowSWE:Startup> Scan Results window

-Settings -&-ShowSWE:RunninghowSWE -> Software Explorer

-ShowSWE:Startup-ShowSWE:Networklorer @ Startup programs

-ShowSWE:Running -> Software Explorer @ Currently running programs

-ShowSWE:Network -&gDelete Browsing History commands (IE7)rams

Show/Hide System Files Context Menu Item

The files in the zip file below add a "Show/Hide System Files" Context Menu Item to all folders.

You can access the Context Menu Item by holding down Shift + right-click on/in a folder.

When you select it, it will Unhide or Hide the System Files and refresh the directory.

Install: Copy SuperHidden*.exe to your Windows directory and merge &quot*erHidden*.reg".

Uninstall: Remove SuperHidden*.exe from your Windows directory and merge "Remove SuperHidden.reg".

* Differences between SuperHidden? & SuperHidden:

SuperHidden? -> Show/Hide System & Hidden files.

SuperHidden -> Show/Hide System files only.

> Show/Hide File Extensions Context Menu Item[/b]url] ( 344 KB )

Show/Hide File Extensions Context Menu Item

The files in the zip file below add a "Show/Hide File Extensions" Context Menu Item to all folders.

You can access the Context Menu Item by holding down Shift + right-click on/in a folder.

It Hides or Unhides the File Extensions + refreshes the directory.

Install: Copy SHFileExt.exe to your System32 directory and merge "Add SHFileExt.reg".

Uninstall: Remove SHFileExt.exe from your System32 directory and merge "Remove SHFileExt.reg".

> MinUnMinAll - Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll[/b]( 206 KB )

MinUnMinAll - Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll (alternative for Show Desktop)

The Show Desktop command minimizes all applications + it sets the Z-Order of the Desktop to topmost.

It also hides applications that you don't want to hide: the Sidebar, docks, calendars, widgets, etc.

MinUnMinAll simply minimizes all applications that support the minimize operation (also works in XP).

Install: Copy MinUnMinAll.exe to anywhere you want and create a shortcut in Quick Launch.

> Replace the Win+D hotkey with Win+M - Win+Shift+M[/b] 213 KB )

Replace the Win+D hotkey with Win+M - Win+Shift+M

Win+D.exe replaces the Win+D hotkey (Show Desktop) with Win+M - Win+Shift+M (Toggle MinimizeAll / UndoMinimizeAll). It runs hidden in the background, you can close it with Task Manager.

Install: Copy Win+D.exe to anywhere you want and create a shortcut in the Startup folder.

> Add the Run command to the Start Menu[/b].zip ( 203 KB )

Add the Run command to the Start Menu

Right-click on the Start Button and select Properties, click Customize, scroll down aStart Menu Search box -> Run dialog boxck Apply and OK.

Start Menu Search box -> Run dialog box

Y:) can use the Start Menu Search box to launch programs like the Run dialog box.

Know some more? Please share them! :)

Edited September 11, 2007 by Herby

[primexx]

Turn User Account Control (UAC) Off. Not recommended for most people. Only those with a realistic sense of how secure things are should disable it.

MinUnMinAll - Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll. keyboard shortcut win + m

Start Search Bar -> Run Dialog Box. No it doesnt work like the run dialogue. Typing in the start menu basically searches the index for matching results, and since it highlights the top result, hitting enter will launch that. Often it works just by typing a keyword of the name of the program, but this method fails when there are many programs with the same keyword in their names. The run command, on the other hand, usually requires you to type the process name to launch a program, which is very precise and more convinent (faster) for people who can memorise process names.

[Mordkanin]

Start Search Bar -> Run Dialog Box. No it doesnt work like the run dialogue. Typing in the start menu basically searches the index for matching results, and since it highlights the top result, hitting enter will launch that. Often it works just by typing a keyword of the name of the program, but this method fails when there are many programs with the same keyword in their names. The run command, on the other hand, usually requires you to type the process name to launch a program, which is very precise and more convinent (faster) for people who can memorise process names.

Maybe it's because I have my whole drive indexed, but I can't find an example of a command that works in run and not in the search box, even command line parameters are passed. (Go on, type mmc.exe services.msc, or cmd.exe /k ipconfig, they both work)

[Denis W. Veteran]

Maybe it's because I have my whole drive indexed, but I can't find an example of a command that works in run and not in the search box, even command line parameters are passed. (Go on, type mmc.exe services.msc, or cmd.exe /k ipconfig, they both work)

That is true, but the 'classic' Run dialog box also has AutoComplete for command line entries. The Search box only remembers folder and application locations.

Add this to the list of tips: a link to the Run dialog box can be enabled by ticking the option in Customize under the Start Menu's properties box, in the Start Menu tab. Once this is done, it'll pop up beneath Help and Support and above the power/lock buttons. People seem to be paranoid that it was permanently shoved into Accessories. (WIN+R still works as well.)

[primexx]

Maybe it's because I have my whole drive indexed, but I can't find an example of a command that works in run and not in the search box, even command line parameters are passed. (Go on, type mmc.exe services.msc, or cmd.exe /k ipconfig, they both work)

Well, my first post wasnt worded properly. After I posted that I tried "winword" in the searchbox, and it returns the word entry also, so I'm guessing that the start menu index also taps into other resources such as the run dialogue. However point still stands that they are different things which achieve similar functionality through different methods.

And yes, the start menu does work for run commands too.

[MrIgoe]

How can I hide the menu bar in explorer. in 5600 i had an option to right click and remove, but in 5728 I dont see it. is there a way I can hide the menu bar and just have it pop up when I hit alt as usual?

[XerXis]

ctrl+shift+enter, run app in the launch text field elevated (as admin)

[Herby]

Turn User Account Control (UAC) Off. Not recommended for most people. Only those with a realistic sense of how secure things are should disable it.

1) If they add a check box like: This is safe, quit nagging about it! then I would think about using it.

2) Turning it off does'nt make your system less secure than XP.

MinUnMinAll - Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll. keyboard shortcut win + m

Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll = Win+M - Win+Shift+M

I've added Win+D to the first post, it replaces the Win+D hotkey (Show Desktop) with Win+M - Win+Shift+M (Toggle MinimizeAll/UndoMinimizeAll).

How can I hide the menu bar in explorer. in 5600 i had an option to right click and remove, but in 5728 I dont see it. is there a way I can hide the menu bar and just have it pop up when I hit alt as usual?

Click on the Organize button -> Layout -> Uncheck Menu Bar. :)

ctrl+shift+enter, run app in the launch text field elevated (as admin)

Nice one,.. thanks! :)

Edited October 1, 2006 by Herby

[Mordkanin]

1) If they add a check box like: This is safe, quit nagging about it! then I would think about using it.

Yeah. Didn't they say, a few years ago, that you'd be able to like, 'bless' programs, so that they'd run as non-admins?

Maybe there is a way through group policy?

Edited October 1, 2006 by MioTheGreat

[andy_rose]

good thread, and thanx for the tips and reg files herby!!

[Herby]

Yeah. Didn't they say, a few years ago, that you'd be able to like, 'bless' programs, so that they'd run as non-admins?

Maybe there is a way through group policy?

True,.. I'll look into it. :)

good thread, and thanx for the tips and reg files herby!!

You're welcome! :)

I've fixed the black overlays bug! :D

Vista does'nt like totally blank icons, I've created a blank icon with some transparent pixels and with the same sizes as the default arrow (imageres.dll,162) -> no more arrows and no black overlays. :)

More info and download @ post #1.

[MrIgoe]

I tried the organize thing, but whether it's checked or not the menu bar is still around....

I dont get it :(

[Herby]

I tried the organize thing, but whether it's checked or not the menu bar is still around....

I dont get it :(

Merge NoMenus.reg and the menus should be gone. :)

NoMenus.zip

[Herby]

I've edited the "User Account Control" section and added some Tips & Tweaks. :)

[Thain]

Followed your instructions. There is now a square with a magnifying glass in it in place of the arrow. At least that is better than the arrow. Any tips on removing the square? Thanks, Thain

[Herby]

Followed your instructions. There is now a square with a magnifying glass in it in place of the arrow. At least that is better than the arrow. Any tips on removing the square? Thanks, Thain

Hi Thain, welcome to Neowin! :)

A square with a magnifying glass,.. can you post a screenshot of this?

Have you tried LittleBlackArrow.reg (+ reboot)?

I've tested it on several machines without problems.

Does anyone else has this problem?

[Herby]

Found a new feature: Guided Help. :)

More info & attachment at first post.

[gabalicious]

Windows + T = cycle through live thumbnails

Windows + spacebar = show gadgets

i find the gadget shortcut very useful since i like to look at my gadgets with all my windows minimized. its just two stokes to do this first i press the show desktop shortcut and then the gadget shortcut. i wish microsoft would have one shortcut that does both though...

also i was playing with the windows key lookin for shortcuts i found that if u press the windows key with keys 1-6 its does something...for me one key opened up aim and another opened internet explorer...also one openedup windows media player library...i think these keys can be customized some how

[Bassem]

Thanks for the tips! :)

*changes boot screen*

[Code.Red]

Windows + T = cycle through live thumbnails

Windows + spacebar = show gadgets

i find the gadget shortcut very useful since i like to look at my gadgets with all my windows minimized. its just two stokes to do this first i press the show desktop shortcut and then the gadget shortcut. i wish microsoft would have one shortcut that does both though...

also i was playing with the windows key lookin for shortcuts i found that if u press the windows key with keys 1-6 its does something...for me one key opened up aim and another opened internet explorer...also one openedup windows media player library...i think these keys can be customized some how

Yeah Win+# are the icons in your quick launch folder. :)

[gabalicious]

Yeah Win+# are the icons in your quick launch folder. :)

thanx thats pretty cool

[Herby]

Windows + T = cycle through live thumbnails

Windows + spacebar = show gadgets

i find the gadget shortcut very useful since i like to look at my gadgets with all my windows minimized. its just two stokes to do this first i press the show desktop shortcut and then the gadget shortcut. i wish microsoft would have one shortcut that does both though...

Try Windows + M :)

If you want to toggle it you can try MinUnMinAll or Win+D.exe (post #1).

[trip21]

Change the Start Menu Power button to Shut Down instead of Sleep

Open the Control Panel and click on Power Options.

Select the Power Plan that you want to use and click on "Change plan settings".

Click on Change advanced power settings, double click on "Power buttons and lid".

Double click on "Start menu power button", change the Setting to Shotdown.

Is their a way to replace the lock button with restart? I never need to lock my home PC

[Herby]

Is their a way to replace the lock button with restart? I never need to lock my home PC

Not without reshacking,.. I'll look into it.

Added: Vista Clock gadget (post #1)

[obsolete_power]

Hey that's pretty neat!