The granddaddy of Windows’ built-in system tools is the Control Panel. I’ve been using Microsoft computers since the days of MS-DOS and was thrilled with Windows 3.1. Not only could I play solitaire on my computer, I could perform basic computer functions without having to memorize pesky commands. The Control Panel is a one of the main areas of your operating system where you can change just about any setting available on your computer.

The Control Panel has evolved only slightly since those early editions of Windows. In Windows Vista, the Control Panel received a face lift, much like the entire operating system. Icons are different looking, names have been changed, and some of the tools are located in different places. However, everything is still accessible one way or the other.

First, let’s look at the new Control Panel found in Windows Vista.

Notice how all of the icons represent broad categories such as Security, Programs, System Maintenance, Hardware and Sound, and so on. The old Control Panel wasn’t categorized. Instead, it contained alphabetized icons. If you knew the name of the tool you wanted to use, you’d simply scroll to the appropriate icon. By having categories, it’s easier to find what you’re looking for. For example, if I want to remove a program, in the old Control Panel, I would have gone to Add and Remove Programs. Now, in Vista, I can go to the Programs category and click a link to uninstall a program.

For those who prefer the old look of the Control Panel, Windows Vista offers a Classic View. However, many of the tools have been renamed. For example, you won’t find Add and Remove Programs in the Classic View. Instead, you must go to Programs and Features.

You can access the Control Panel directly from the Start button; it’s aptly labeled “Control Panel.” In addition, you can enter specific commands for specific Control Panel tools directly in the Run box or Search bar (if you know the commands). For example, if you want to launch Add and Remove Programs (Programs and Features) type appwiz.cpl into the Run box or Search bar. If you want to change the time or date, type timedate.cpl.

In Windows Vista, the Search bar intuitively offers programs based on your searches. For example, if you type in Time in the Search bar, you’ll see Date and Time listed under Programs. Click the link and the Date and Time Control Panel item will launch just as it would if you entered the timedate.cpl command in the Run box.

What if Control Panel won’t open (it happens)? Check out this article with advice.

Microsoft product screen shot(s) reprinted with permission from Microsoft Corporation.

View the whole series of System Tools Articles:

System Tools: Disk Cleanup

System Tools: Defragmenter

System Tools: System Restore

System Tools: Backup and Restore

System Tools: System Information

System Tools: Windows Easy Transfer

System Tools: Control Panel

System Tools: Task Scheduler

Celeste Stewart | July 30th, 2008
Tags: classic control panel, control panel
Categories: Windows

You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.