Starting with an overview to guide decisions on which version to purchase, Cowart and Knittel cover Windows improved interface, security, Web browsing, performance, multimedia, networking, and system management and stability features. A trial online edition is available.

You're beyond the basics, so dive right into troubleshooting Windows 7 -- and really put your PC to work! This supremely organized reference describes hundreds of prevention tips, troubleshooting techniques, and recovery tools in one essential guide. It's all muscle and no fluff. Discover how the experts keep their Windows 7-based systems running smoothly -- and challenge yourself to new levels of mastery. Take control of essential Windows 7 maintenance and security features, such as the Action Center and User Account Control Master quick fixes to the most common problems using expert tips and step-by-step repair guides Implement best practices to help prevent and combat viruses, malware, and identity theft Apply advanced troubleshooting techniques by understanding how Windows 7 works Diagnose hardware problems and work safely with your PC Develop a recovery plan to restore your system and data in the event of a disaster Know when to use power utilities for advanced performance, maintenance, and diagnostics Your book -- online! Get your fully searchable online edition -- with unlimited access on the Web.

Microsoft® Windows 7 Unleashed gives IT professionals, serious power users, and true geeks the powerhouse Windows 7 tweaks, hacks, techniques, and insights they need: knowledge that simply can’t be found anywhere else. Top Windows expert Paul McFedries dives deep into Windows 7, returning with the most powerful ways to handle everything from networking to administration, security to scripting. McFedries begins with advanced customization, covering everything from startup/shutdown to the file system. He introduces new ways to tune Windows 7 performance, police Windows via Group Policies, tweak the Registry, make the most of Windows 7s management tools, and control Windows 7 from the command line. You’ll find thorough coverage of securing Windows 7, including detailed guidance on web and email security and hardening both wireless and wired networks. You’ll also discover better ways to troubleshoot devices, networks, and startup; add Macs to Windows networks; and automate Windows administration with state-of-the-art scripting techniques. This book is packed with expert tips, tricks, and troubleshooting techniques drawn from McFedries’ unsurpassed Windows experience. If you want maximum value and performance from your Windows 7 PCs, you won’t find a more valuable resource. Customize everything about Windows 7: IE8, startup/shutdown, file systems, the Start menu, Taskbar, and more Systematically monitor, tune, and optimize Windows performance–including practical techniques for accelerating startup Set up an easy, automated 9-Step maintenance schedule for any Windows 7 PC Unleash Windows 7s power user tools, including Group Policies, the Registry, MMC, and the command line Secure Windows 7 with security settings: auto-lock, Windows Firewall, Windows Defender, parental controls, BitLocker encryption, and more Protect your web privacy with Windows 7s new InPrivate Browsing Solve problems with Windows 7, startup, networking, and hardware Set up reliable Windows 7 networks, and manage them efficiently Safely provide remote access and VPN connectivity Use Windows 7 as a Web server Program the Windows Scripting Host and Windows PowerShell ON THE WEB: Free Online Edition! When Microsoft releases the final product, you can get an updated edition of this book absolutely free! All examples and source code presented in this book

SEE IT DONE. DO IT YOURSELF. It’s that Easy! Easy Microsoft Windows 7 teaches you the fundamentals of working with Microsoft’s latest operating system. Fully illustrated steps with simple instructions guide you through every task, building the skills you need to master Windows 7 with ease. No need to feel intimidated–we’ll hold your hand every step of the way. Learn how to... • Instantly find what you’re looking for: files, programs, anything • Manage your music and video with Windows Media Player • See it all, do it all, get it all on the Web • Have more fun with Windows 7’s built-in games • Protect yourself from viruses, intrusions, and phishing • Download free Windows Live Essentials bonus software • Set up your computer just the way you want it • Keep your computer running reliable and fast • Build a home network the easy way with HomeGroup • Put live and Internet TV on your PC with Windows Media Center

A full-color guide to key Windows 7 administration concepts and topics Windows 7 is the leading desktop software, yet it can be a difficult concept to grasp, especially for those new to the field of IT. Microsoft Windows Operating System Essentials is an ideal resource for anyone new to computer administration and looking for a career in computers. Delving into areas such as fundamental Windows 7 administration concepts and various desktop OS topics, this full-color book addresses the skills necessary for individuals looking to break into a career in IT. Each chapter begins with a list of topic areas to be discussed, followed by a clear and concise discussion of the core Windows 7 administration concepts and skills necessary so you can gain a strong understanding of the chapter topic areas. The chapters conclude with review questions and suggested labs, so you can gauge your understanding of the chapter's contents. Offers in-depth coverage of operating system configurations Explains how to install and upgrade client systems Addresses managing applications and devices Helps you understand operating system maintenance Covers the topics you need to know for the MTA 98-349 exam The full-color Microsoft Windows 7 Essentials proves itself to be an invaluable resource on Windows 7 and features additional learning tutorials and tools.

Tips, tricks, treats, and secrets revealed on Windows 8 Microsoft is introducing a major new release of its Windows operating system, Windows 8, and what better way for you to learn all the ins and outs than from two internationally recognized Windows experts and Microsoft insiders, authors Paul Thurrott and Rafael Rivera? They cut through the hype to get at useful information you'll not find anywhere else, including what role this new OS plays in a mobile and tablet world. Regardless of your level of knowledge, you'll discover little-known facts about how things work, what's new and different, and how you can modify Windows 8 to meet what you need. Windows 8 Secrets is your insider's guide to: Choosing Windows 8 Versions, PCs and Devices, and Hardware Installing and Upgrading to Windows The New User Experience The Windows Desktop Personalizing Windows Windows Store: Finding, Acquiring, and Managing Your Apps Browsing the Web with Internet Explore Windows 8's Productivity Apps Windows 8's Photo and Entertainment Apps Xbox Games with Windows 8 Windows 8 Storage, Backup, and Recovery Accounts and Security Networking and Connectivity Windows 8 for Your Business Windows Key Keyboard Shortcuts Windows 8 Secrets is the ultimate insider's guide to Microsoft's most exciting Windows version in years.

Microsoft® Windows® 8 is designed to mesh users' digital lives seamlessly—from desktop to phone to tablet—by utilizing a look and feel that give users a new Windows experience. However, with all of this change comes new features that may catch old-school Windows users off guard. In The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Microsoft® Windows® 8, veteran tech writer Paul McFedries uses his friendly style and wit to comfort experienced Windows users and newbies alike by explaining all the new features as well as the old, and helping everyone overcome trepidation about using this completely updated look to the most popular desktop operating system in the world. You will learn how to use new Windows 8 features, including tiles and the new home screen, how you can mesh your data with “the cloud,” and much more. And, when all else fails, McFedries teaches you how to easily and seamlessly toggle back to the “old” and familiar Windows look and feel, should the new experience prove to be a bit more change than desired.