MODULE-1
Computing Fundamentals
And
Table of Contents
1. HANDLING IT EQUIPMENTS ................................................................................................................6 Learning Outcomes ....................................................................................................................................... 7 1.2 AWARENESS OF HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE ................................................................................................. 7 1.2.1 COMPUTER: ...................................................................................................................................... 7 1.2.2 Input devices ....................................................................................................................................... 8 1.2.3 OUTPUT DEVICES ...................................................................................................................................... 9 SPEAKER AND HEAD PHONE : ........................................................................................................... 10 1.2.4 STORAGE DEVICES ................................................................................................................................... 10 1.2.5 PROCESSING DEVICES .............................................................................................................................. 12 1.2.6 COMMUNICATION DEVICES....................................................................................................................... 13 1.3 INSTALLATION AND TROUBLE SHOOTING ........................................................................................................ 15 1.3.1 Printers .............................................................................................................................................. 15 Printer Quality:............................................................................................................................................ 15 Types of printers ......................................................................................................................................... 15 dot-matrix: .................................................................................................................................................. 16 ink-jet: ......................................................................................................................................................... 16 laser:............................................................................................................................................................ 16
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1.4 SCANNER.................................................................................................................................................. 18 FLATBED ........................................................................................................................................................ 19 1. HANDLING OPERATING SYSTEM................................................................................................. 22 2.1.9.2 How to undo a system restoration after you perform a System Restore .................................... 55 2.10 INTRODUCTION TO THE CONTROL PANEL ..................................................................................................... 59 2.10.1 NAVIGATE THE CONTROL PANEL.............................................................................................................. 60 2.10.2 SET THE TIME AND DATE ........................................................................................................................ 61 2.10.3 CHANGING THE WALLPAPER ................................................................................................................... 62 2.10.4 CHANGING THE SCREENSAVER ................................................................................................................ 63 2.10.5 CUSTOMIZING THE TASKBAR ................................................................................................................... 65 CHALLENGE! ................................................................................................................................................... 66 2.10.6 THE PRINTERS AND FAXES FOLDER........................................................................................................... 66 2.10.7 ADDING A PRINTER ............................................................................................................................... 67 2.11 WHAT ARE SYSTEMS TOOLS? ..................................................................................................................... 67 2.11.1DISK DEFRAGMENTER ............................................................................................................................ 68 2.11.2 DISK CLEANUP...................................................................................................................................... 70 2.11.3 THE SCHEDULED TASK WIZARD ............................................................................................................... 71 2.11.4 DEALING WITH AN UNRESPONSIVE COMPUTER......................................................................................... 72
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2.11.5 ADJUSTING TASKBAR AND START MENU OPTIONS ................................................................. 73 2.11.6 KEEP THE TASKBAR ON TOP OF OTHER WINDOWS.................................................................. 74 2.11.7 DISPLAY THE QUICK LAUNCH BAR ON THE TASKBAR ............................................................... 76 2.11.8 CUSTOMIZE THE START MENU ............................................................................................... 78 2.11.9 SPECIFY THE CLASSIC LOOK AND BEHAVIOR FOR THE START MENU ......................................... 82
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List of Figure
Figure 2. 1 Desktop ....................................................................................................... 25 Figure 2. 2 Pop up window ............................................................................................ 30 Figure 2. 3 Start menu................................................................................................... 33 Figure 2. 4 Start > All Programs .................................................................................... 35 Figure 2. 5 Turn off window ........................................................................................... 37 Figure 2. 6 Window explorer ......................................................................................... 38
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1. Handling IT equipments
Communication technology provides access to information and markets. It connects people to various educational opportunities. Thus, communication technologies help in bringing about transformation in economies. The computer-mediated communication technology includes conferencing technologies and messaging systems. This technology also facilitates group work and also helps to develop thinking skill, decrease the need for memorization of the facts, evaluates current information and develops accessing skills. Communication technologies also help in training the students. It promotes better understanding and coordination. The popular communication technologies are:
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) include the process of transmitting, storing, creating and exchange of knowledge. It covers all the tools and technologies that transform the information e.g. TV, telephone, Internet, etc.
Education plays very important role in socio-economic development of any country whereas ICT has pivotal role in promotion of literacy. It improves teaching process by:
In the present era the connection of ICT and Education is well known. Therefore it is essential for teachers to use ICT into their teaching learning process.
Learning Outcomes After completing this module one should be able to: Understand the concept of ICT Understand the computer hardware and software Recognize the elements of ICT Work with the operation system (Windows) Work with the window configuration/customization Trouble shoot the windows Work with the windows security
1.2.1 COMPUTER: A computer is an electronic device which can do arithmetic and logical calculations and also have the capability of storing and retrieving of bulk quantity of data . 7
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1.2.2 Input devices Keyboard and Mouse: In computing, a keyboard is an input device, partially modeled after the typewriter keyboard, which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys, to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches. A keyboard typically has characters engraved or printed on the keys and each press of a key typically corresponds to a single written symbol.
In computing, a mouse (plural mouses, mice, or mouse devices.) is a pointing device that functions by detecting two-dimensional motion relative to its supporting surface. 8
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Physically, a mouse consists of an object held under one of the user's hands, with one or more buttons.The mouse's motion typically translates into the motion of a pointer on a display, which allows for fine control of a Graphical User Interface. Webcam: is a video capture device connected to a computer or computer network, often using a USB port or, if connected to a network, ethernet or Wi-Fi. The most popular use is for video telephony, permitting a computer to act as a videophone or video conferencing station. This can be used in messenger programs such as Windows Live Messenger, Skype and Yahoo messenger services. Other popular uses, which include the recording of video files or even still-images, are accessible via numerous software programs, applications and devices.
Monitor: A monitor or display (sometimes called a visual display unit) is a piece of electrical equipment which displays images generated by devices such as computers, without producing a permanent record. The display device in modern monitors is typically a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD), while older monitors use a cathode ray tube (CRT).
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Speaker and head phone : Speakers are output devices that uses sound card ,which converts digital sound into analog.
Hard drive: A hard disk drive (often shortened as hard disk, hard drive, or HDD) is a non-volatile storage device that stores digitally encoded data on rapidly rotating platters with magnetic surfaces. Strictly speaking, "drive" refers to the motorized mechanical aspect that is distinct from its medium, such as a tape drive and its tape, or a floppy disk drive and its floppy disk. Early HDDs had removable media; however, an HDD today is typically a sealed unit (except for a filtered vent hole to equalize air pressure) with fixed media.
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RAM: Random-access memory (usually known by its acronym, RAM) is a form of computer data storage. Today, it takes the form of integrated circuits that allow stored data to be accessed in any order (i.e., at random). The word random thus refers to the fact that any piece of data can be returned in a constant time, regardless of its physical location and whether or not it is related to the previous piece of data
USB flash drive: consists of flash memory data storage device integrated with a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 1.1 or 2.0 interface. USB flash drives are typically removable and rewritable, much smaller than a floppy disk, and most weigh less than 30 g (1 oz). Storage capacities in 2009 can be as large as 256 GB with steady improvements in size and price per capacity. Some allow 1 million write or erase cycles and have a 10-year data retention cycle.
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Processor: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) or the processor is the portion of a computer system that carries out the instructions of a computer program, and is the primary element carrying out the computer's functions. This term has been in use in the computer industry at least since the early 1960s. The form, design and implementation of CPUs have changed dramatically since the earliest examples, but their fundamental operation remains much the same.
Mainboard:A mainboard/motherboard is the central printed circuit board (PCB) in many modern computers and holds many of the crucial components of the system, while providing connectors for other peripherals.
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Courtesy of http://s3.amazonaws.com/adaptiveblue_img/topics/p/ieee_80211n
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Bluetooth/Infrared Technologies: Bluetooth is an open wireless protocol for exchanging data over short distances (using short length radio waves) from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks (PANs) Bluetooth uses a radio technology called frequency-hopping spread spectrum, which chops up the data being sent and transmits chunks of it on up to 79 frequencies. It can achieve a gross data rate of 1 Mbit/s. Bluetooth provides a way to connect and exchange information between devices such as mobile phones, telephones, laptops, personal computers, printers, Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, digital cameras. Infrared: IR data transmission is also employed in short-range communication among computer peripherals and personal digital assistants. These devices usually conform to standards published by IrDA, the Infrared Data Association. Remote controls and IrDA devices use infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit infrared radiation which is focused by a plastic lens into a narrow beam. The beam is modulated, i.e. switched on and off, to encode the data. The receiver uses a silicon photodiode to convert the infrared radiation to an electric current. It responds only to the rapidly pulsing signal created by the transmitter, and filters out slowly changing infrared radiation from ambient light.
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dot-matrix:
Creates characters by striking pins against an ink ribbon. Each pin makes a dot, and combinations of dots form characters and illustrations.
ink-jet:
Sprays ink at a sheet of paper. Ink-jet printers produce high-quality text and graphics. laser:
Uses the same technology as copy machines. Laser printers produce very high quality text and graphics. 16
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Consult the owner's manual or packaging of your printer. Most printer manufacturers advertise the fact that their printer supports Plug and Play. Look for Plug and Play on the printer's list of features.
Check the connector on the end of the printer cable that you plug into your computer. If the connector that attaches the printer cable to the computer is a USB connector, then the printer supports Plug and Play.
1.3.3 Installation of Printer Drivers To add and set up a non-Plug and Play printer connected directly to your computer, you must have Administrator privileges. 17
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1. Connect the printer cable to the appropriate port on your computer according to the printer manufacturer's instructions. 2. Plug the power cord of the printer into a wall outlet and turn the printer on. 3. Open Printers and Faxes. (click Start, click Control Panel, and then doubleclick Printers and Faxes) 4. Under Printer Tasks, click Add a printer to open the Add Printer Wizard, and then click Next. 5. Click Local printer or stand-alone network printer, clear the Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play printer check box, and then click Next. 6. Most computers use a parallel port (LPT1) to send information to a printer that's directly attached to the computer. So in the Use the following port list, click LPT1: (Recommended Printer Port), and then click Next. Some plotters, however, may connect to the computer through one of the serial (COM) ports. If that's the case for you, click one of the serial (COM) ports. 7. In Add printer wizard select Manufacturer of printer from Manufacturer column and printer model from Printer column. (If your printer is not listed there then click on Have Disk button and follow the process.) and click Next. 8. In Printer Name box give name of your printer or leave default name given by system, under that check if you want to select this printer as default printer or not, then click Next. 9. In this window asks, if you want to share your printer, if you, then check and give name of the printer other wise leave it as it is and click Next. Then a window asks about the test page if you want to print, then click YES other wise No, and click Next, in then click Finish in next window. When you are finished, the printer appears in Printers and Faxes. If you want to print a test page, first make sure your printer is turned on and ready to print.
1.4 Scanner
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In computing, a scanner is a device that optically scans images, printed text, handwriting, or an object, and converts it to a digital image. Common examples found in offices are variations of the desktop (or flatbed) scanner where the document is placed on a glass window for scanning
Types of Scanners
Flatbed A flatbed scanner is usually composed of a glass pane (or platen), under which there is a bright light (often xenon or cold cathode fluorescent) which illuminates the pane, and a moving optical array in CCD scanning. CCD type scanners typically contain three rows (arrays) of sensors with red, green, and blue filters.
sheetfed scanners Over the last few years, personal sheetfed scanners have grown in popularity. These units are more like a fax machine than a copier, because they move the page being scanned past the scanning head, rather than the other way around.
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Slide Scanner Some items demand special handling during scanning. Slides, for instance, require a scanner that passes light through the image rather than reflecting off light off it. Because of their small size, slides also need to be scanned on a unit with very high resolution (in other words, a lot of eyes on the scanning head).
Hand Scanner
A Hand scanner is a manual device that is dragged across the surface of the image to be scanned. Scanning documents in this manner is difficult as this requires a steady hand, to avoid uneven scanning rate that would produce distorted images. They have a "start" button which is held by the user during the scan, some switches to set the optical resolution, and a roller which generates a clock pulse for synchronization with the computer. 20
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1.4.1 Installing & Troubleshooting Instruction for Connecting Scanner/printer/webcam/any USB peripheral device
Step 1: Read the manufacturer's instructions included with the device. Step 2: Unpack the device and its accessories. Step 3: Turn off the computer and any attached devices. Step 4: Connect the USB cable into the proper port and the other end into the back of the scanner. Step 5: Attach the power cable to the device and to a power outlet (if required) and turn on the device. Step 6: Turn on the computer. Step 7: The Windows Plug 'n Play feature should detect the device automatically. Follow the Windows instructions, and insert the device diskette or CD if prompted.
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Windows XP provides a new user interface with different visual style. Windows XP desktop and taskbar are more attractive and easier to use. Windows layout has also been changed for windows XP. The design of Stat menu is also changed.
Easier To Use
Windows XP provides an easier way to work with files and folders. It saves all files in My Documents folder on Desktop by default. It also manages a list of recently used files by Quick access later. 22
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Easier To Manage
Windows XP is easier to manage for user and network administrator. It can install and repair some programs automatically. The user can also add and remove programs easily.
Clean Desktop Wizard
Clean Desktop wizard is an important feature of Windows XP. By default, the Desktop clean Wizard runs every sixty days. It clean up desktop by moving unused desktop shortcuts to a folder called Unused Desktop Shortcuts.
Multi-User
Windows XP is a multi user operating System. It means that many users can use the computer and utilities multiple processors in a computer. These can be connected to a computer over the internet.
Multi Processing
Windows ZP supports multiple processing. Multi-processing is the capability to support and utilize multiple processors in a computer. Two or more processors can execute different programs at the same time. It increases the output of the computer.
Plug and Play
Plug and play is the capability to detect and configure a device and install appropriate device drive. Windows XP has the feature of plug and play. It contains a large number of device driver. When a new hardware device is attached to computer, it detects the device and installs its driver if it is available.
Digital Media
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Windows XP provides many features to enjoy and share digital music, movies and pictures. Windows Media Player is used to listen to music, watch movies etc. Windows XP also makes it easier to manage and enjoy digital pictures. My Pictures folder provides an easier way to organize photos.
System Restore
System Restore feature of Windows XP is used to restore operating system in case of any problem. The operating system is restored to a previous state without any loss of data.
Remote Assistance
Remote Assistance feature allows a friend at a different location to connect to your computer and view its screen. Both persons can chat in real time to discuss any problem. One user can allow other person to use his mouse and keyboard to fix the problem of computer.
Microsoft Windows XP provides multi-user access to single computer. Multiple users can share a computer and switch between user sessions without closing the programs.
Browsing the Internet
Windows XP provides improved facilities for browsing the Internet. It offers better security and privacy when browsing the Internet. It also provides new features for MSN and windows Messenger users.
2.1.2 Using desktop
2.1.2.1
The on-screen work area that contains windows, icons, menus and dialog boxes is called Desktop. The Desktop is the entering point in windows. Desktop is the first object that appears when windows is started the user can also changed the look of the desktop.
Figure 2. 1 Desktop
2.1.2.2
Element of Desktop
Icon
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An icon is a small graphic that represent a program, drive, folder or document windows operating system used icons frequently to make the environment user-friendly. Some important icon that appears on Desktop is My Computer, My Documents, and Recycle etc.
Taskbar
The Taskbar appears at the bottom of desktop. It includes start button and a button for each open application. It also includes Quick Launch icons and notification area. By default the taskbar is always displayed on top of any opened windows.
Start Button
Start button is used to access most of the Programs installed on the Computer. It is used to perform the following tasks easily: Open or search a document Change Windows settings Manage Files Getting Help Maintain System etc 26
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My Documents
My Document is as folder that is automatically created by Windows during installation. It is used for saving documents; many application programs like MS word use this folder as default location for storing files The following procedure is used to open My Documents folder. Click Stat > My Documents
My Computer
My Computer icon is a graphical representation of everything on the computer. It is displayed on Desktop. It is used to view difference resources of computer. The user can double-click my Computer icon to view these resources. The resources include the drives, files and folders etc. My computer also contains Control Panel option. The control panel provides different tools to configure the computer
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Double c-click the My Computer icon on Desktop. Double Click a drive icon. Scroll through the list of folders (if necessary), and double click a folder. Repeat Step for any subfolder if necessary. Double-Click the file too open it.
My Network Places
My Network Places is a folder on the Desktop. It contains icons that represent all the computer System Connected via a network. It is used to access the computers and printers that are connected to the network. It is also used to access the shared devices and folder in the network. The user can connect and disconnect form the My Network Places using My Network places.
The following procedure is used to open My Network Places folder. Click Start> My Network Places.
Recycle Bin
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Recycle Bin is a temporary storage area. It appears on Desktop. It is used to keep deleted files. When a file or folder is delete, it is not removed from the disk permanently. Windows moves it to Recycle Bin. The files remain there until the user recover them or deletes them permanently. Recycle Bin can be helpful to recover a file that is detected accidentally.
1. 2.
click and hold down the left mouse button on the desired file or folder Drag the icon into the Recycle Bin icon. The files are now in the recycle bin and
will remain the recycle bin until the recycle bin is empty.
OR
Right click the file or folder to be deleted. A pop-up menu will appear. Choose Delete. A dialog Box will appear.
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Click yes.
Empty Recycle Bin is a process of removing the contents of Recycle Bin. The file or folder is removed from the disk permanently when the user deletes it from Recycle Bin. The files or folder deleted from Recycle Bin cannot be restored later. Windows automatically removes older files from Recycle Bin if its size becomes full. The following procedure is used to empty recycle bin: Double-click Click the left mouse button on the Recycle Bin icon. A Recycle bin windows appear. Select the Empty Recycle Bin option from File menu OR click Empty the Recycle Bin link in Recycle Bin Tasks area. All items will be deleted permanently.
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OR
1. 2.
Right Click Recycle Bin on Desktop. A pop-up menu will appear. Select Empty Recycle Bin. All items will be deleted permanently.
The process of bringing back the deleted file from Recycle Bin to its original location is called restoring recycle Bin.
Double click on Recycle bin icon. A Recycle Bin window will appear. Click Restore All Items lick in Recycle Bin Tasks list. The items are restored to their original location.
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Double Click Recycle Bin on Desktop. A Recycle Bin window will appear. Select the items to be restored. Click restore this item link in recycle bin tasks area. The item is restored to its original location.
2.1.2.4
The Start menu appears when start button on Taskbar is activated. All programs in the computer are accessible from start menu. The start menu has been redesigned in Windows XP. It is divided into two panes. The left pane displays the most recently used program. The right pane contains useful icons to access files, configure computer and find information and assistance. It also displays the name of the use who is logged onto the computer. The classic start menu contains only a ingle pane.
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The most frequently used programs are automatically displayed at the beginning of start menu. Only five programs are displayed when windows XP is used for the first time. The start menu displays up to sic frequently used programs by default. The following procedure is used to access the most frequently used programs.
1. 2.
By default, Internet and email programs are displayed above the most frequently used programs. Internet Explore is built - in web browser. It provides an interface to access the internet. E- Mail option starts the default email application such an Outlook Express. A separator line divides the two sections. The top section above the most frequently used programs is known as pinned items list. The pinned items list does not change like the most frequently used programs. The following procedure is used to access internet and email programs: 1. 2. Click the start button. Select the Internet or E mail program you want to open.
All Programs
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The All Programs in start menu displays a list of programs installed on computer. The following procedure is used to access all programs:
1. 2.
My Documents
My documents folder stores all files. Many application programs like MS Word use this folder as default location for storing files. The following procedure is used to open My Documents folder: Click start > My Documents.
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My Pictures
My Pictures folder provides a convenient way to organize photos. The user can view pictures in My Pictures folder in several ways. The filmstrip and thumbnail views show pictures without opening them. My picture folder also contains sample pictures. By default, it is located in My Document folder. The following procedure is used to open My Pictures.
My Computer is used to view different resources of computer. The resources include drives, files and folders etc. It also contains Control Panel option that provides different tools to configure computer. The following procedure is used to open My Computer: Click start > My computer.
Control Panel
The control panel provides different tools to configure the computer. It determines the appearance of desktop and controls the performance of hardware. The following procedure is used to open the Control Panel: Click start > Control panel.
Properly shutting down the computer
Turn Off Computer is used to close all files and shuts down the computer. It is very important to use this option to shut down the operating system before turning off the power. The following procedure is used to shut down the computer: 1. Click start > Turn Off. Turn Off dialog box will open.
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2.1.3.2 Renaming a file or Folder 1. Click on the file or folder to rename. 2. Click again on the file or folder name. 3. Type in a new name for the file or folder 4. Press the Enter key OR
1. Right-click the file or folders icon. 2. Select Rename. 3. Type in a new name for the file or folder. 4. Press the Enter key.
2.1.3.3Creating sub-folders
1) Open the folder or directory where you want to create a sub folder. 2) Select File>New>Folder. 3) Type in a name for the folder. 4) Press the Enter key.
Open the folder or directory where you want to create a sub folder. 39
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Select File>New>Folder. Type in a name for the folder. Press the Enter key
1. Select the file or folder to be copied in Window Explorer. 2. Click Edit > Copy OR right click on the files or folder and select Copy command 3. Go to the folder where you want to paste it. 4. Click Edit > Paste. OR Right click and select Paste command.
2.1.3.6
1. Highlight the file you wish to copy. 2. Press CTRL key. 3. Drag the file from one location to another.
2.1.3.7 Moving Files and Folders 1. Select the file or folder to be moved in Windows Explorer. 2. Select Edit > Cut. OR Right click on the file or folder and select Cut.
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3. Go to the folder where you want to move it. 4. Select Edit >Paste. OR Right click and select Paste.
2.1.3.8 Moving files using Drag and Drop 3 4 Highlight the file to copy and press Shift key. Drag the file form one location to another.
2.1.4 Troubleshooting Trapshooting is a form of problem solving most often applied to repair of failed products or processes. It is a logical, systematic search for the source of a problem so that it can be solved, and so the product or process can be made operational again. Troubleshooting is needed to develop and maintain complex systems where the symptoms of a problem can have many possible causes.
2.1.4.1 Modifying desktop settings (first discuss the desktop immediately after the windows features)
The windows operation system provides a variety options to customize graphical interface. The options include color, font size, display resolution, icons and taskbar options etc. the Display Properties dialog box is used to customize there properties.
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Desktop Theme
A desktop theme affects the appearance of desktop. It includes desktop background, screen saver, window appearance, pointers and sounds. The user can choose between the Windows XP theme and windows Classic theme. By default, Windows XP theme is applied.
Wallpaper
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Wallpaper is the background image that appears on desktop. Windows XP provides many wallpaper options. The desktop background can be customized with a picture, texture or color. The user can choose from window XP background or use different images.
Screen Saver
A screen saver is a moving image that appears on screen if the computer is not used for specified period of time. It saves screen from possible damage called burn-in. the damages may occur if screen displays a static image for a long time. The screen saver displays a moving images to prevent this damage.
Appearance
The Appearance tab of Display Properties dialog box is used to change color, size and fonts of windows interface. Desktop color and icon fonts can be changed using this option. It provides difference color schemes.
Screen Setting
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The user can increase screen resolution to view more information at one time. Higher resolution displays everything smaller including windows, stat menu and icons etc. it increases space on desktop.
1. 2. 3.
Right click on desktop. A popup menu will appear. Select properties. The Display Properties dialog box will appear. Select a theme from Theme drop- down menu. The selected theme will be applied.
4.
Click Ok
OR
1. 2.
Click Start > Control panel > Appearance and Themes, Click Change the computer;s theme in Pick a Task are of click Display in or Pick a Control Panel icon area. The Display properties dialog box will appear.
3. 4.
Select a theme from Theme drop-down menu. Click OK. The selected theme will be applied.
1. 2.
Right click on desktop. A pop-up menu will appear Select Properties. The Display properties dialog box will appear. 44
3. 4. 5.
Click Desktop tab. Select a background from background list. Select how image should appear on screen. Chosse from the following a. Center: place the image in the center of the screen b. Tile: Have the image display as tiles across and down the screen. c. Stretch: Stretch the image so the image covers the entire screen.
6. 7.
Use the drop down boxes to alter wallpaper color. Click OK. The selected background will be applied.
1. 2. 3.
Click Start > My Pictueres. Select the picture from My Picturee folder to apply as desktop background. Click Set as Desktop background link in a task panel.
1. Right click on desktop. Apop-up menu will appear. 2. Click on Screen saver tabs. 3. Select desire screen saver from Screen Saver drop-down menu. 45
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4. Click on Setting to set display option associated with screen saver. 5. Check the on resume, password protedt box. 6. Set the number of minutes of inactivity before the screen saver starts in Wait box. 7. Click Preview button to preview the screen saver. 8. Click Ok. The screen saver will be applied.
1. Right click on desktopn. A pop-up menu will appear. 2. Click on Properties. A Display Poprerties dialog box will appear. 3. Click on appearcne tab. 4. Select the color form Color Scheme drop-down menu. 5. Select the font size form the font size drop-down menu. 6. Click OK.
1. Right click on desktop. Apop-up menu will appear. 2. Select properties. The display properties dialog box will appear. 3. Click Desktop tab. 4. Click Customize Desktop button. 5. Check the icons to be displayed on desktop in Desktop icons area. 46
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1. Right click on desktop. A pop-up menu will appear. 2. Click on Properties. A display properties dialog box will appear. 3. Click on Desktop tab. 4. Click Customize Desktoop button. A Desktop items dialog box opens. 5. Select the icon to change. 6. Click change icon buttion. 7. Select an icon from the list. 8. Click OK. 9. Click OK to close Desktop Items dialog box. 10. Click Ok to close Display Porperties dialog box.
2.1.5
Getting Help
The help of windows XP can be used to solve some of the questions regarding the use of a Windows XP component or tool. Windows help consists of different pages that are similar in navigation as the pages on a web site. The user can search information about a particular theme from keywords and key phrases. The main part of window help is called help center and technical support.
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Opening Help and Support Center The following procedure is used to access the Help and Support Center: 1. Click Start Help and Support. The Help and Support Center window opens. The home section is displayed.
The home section is displayed when the user opens Help and Support Center for the first time. The user can pick a help topic, pick a task, search and ask for outside assistance. The Home section looks and acts much like a web page. Some Help files are stored on computer and others are stored on the Internet.
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2.1.6 Search Function Searching for help topics is the fastest and most useful way to use the Help and Support Center. The following procedure is used to use the search function: Open Help and Support Center. Type and keyword in Search box. Click the green arrow key. The search result will appear in the left pane.
Click to select the desired result. The explanation will display in the right pane.
2.1.7 Recovering files from the recycle bin
The process of bringing back the deleted file from Recycle Bin to its original location is called restoring recycle Bin. 49
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Double click on Recycle bin icon. A Recycle Bin window will appear. Click Restore All Items lick in Recycle Bin Tasks list. The items are restored to their original location.
Double Click Recycle Bin on Desktop. A Recycle Bin window will appear. Select the items to be restored. Click restore this item link in recycle bin tasks area. The item is restored to its original location.
2.1.8
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Windows Defender is software that helps protect your computer against pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software by detecting and removing known spyware from your computer. Windows Defender features Real-Time Protection, a monitoring system that recommends actions against spyware when it's detected, minimizes interruptions, and helps you stay productive. The benefits of installing Windows Defender include:
Windows Defender quickly and easily finds spyware and other unwanted programs that can slow down your computer, display annoying pop-up ads, change Internet settings, or use your private information without your consent.
Windows Defender eliminates detected spyware easily at your direction, and if you inadvertently remove programs that you actually want, it's easy to get them back.
Windows Defender allows you to schedule your scanning and removal times when it's convenient for you, whether it's on-demand or on a schedule that you set.
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Windows Defender helps stop spyware before it infiltrates your computer. Windows Defender also offers a continuous safeguard designed to target all the ways that spyware can infiltrate your computer.
Windows Defender works without distracting you. It runs in the background and automatically handles spyware based on preferences that you set. You can use your computer with minimal interruption.
A dedicated team of Microsoft researchers continuously searches the Internet to discover new spyware and develop methods to counteract it. A voluntary, worldwide network of Windows Defender users helps Microsoft determine which suspicious programs to classify as spyware. Participants help discover new threats quickly and notify Microsoft analysts, so that everyone is better protected. Anyone who uses Windows Defender can join this network and help report potential spyware to Microsoft.
To help protect your computer from the latest threats, you can choose to have updates that counteract new spyware automatically downloaded to your computer.
2.1.8.4
Firewall
A firewall is a part of a computer system or network that is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting authorized communications. It is a device or set of devices configured to permit, deny, encrypt, decrypt, or proxy all (in and out) computer traffic between different security domains based upon a set of rules and other criteria. 52
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Firewalls can be implemented in either hardware or software, or a combination of both. Firewalls are frequently used to prevent unauthorized Internet users from accessing private networks connected to the Internet, especially intranets. All messages entering or leaving the intranet pass through the firewall, which examines each message and blocks those that do not meet the specified security criteria. There are several types of firewall techniques: 1. Packet filter: Packet filtering inspects each packet passing through the network and accepts or rejects it based on user-defined rules. Although difficult to configure, it is fairly effective and mostly transparent to its users. In addition, it is susceptible to IP spoofing. 2. Application gateway: Applies security mechanisms to specific applications, such as FTP and Telnet servers. This is very effective, but can impose a performance degradation. 3. Circuit-level gateway: Applies security mechanisms when a TCP or UDP connection is established. Once the connection has been made, packets can flow between the hosts without further checking. 4. Proxy server: Intercepts all messages entering and leaving the network. The proxy server effectively hides the true network addresses.
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One of the greatest utilities in newer versions of Windows (Windows 2000 and Windows XP) is that of system restore. This is a backup system built into your computer that will allow you to restore your computer to a previous state in the case that something happens to your computer making it inoperable or greatly limiting your computing abilities. If you are infected with a computer virus or have other problems with your system, using system restore to revert to a backup setting for your computer can greatly assist you in restoring your computer to normal in the event of damage to your system. Operating systems which allow for system restore will usually automatically save settings periodically to ensure that you always have a working system in backup, and will also allow you to backup your settings yourself if you feel that you
2.1.9.1 Creating different restore points To use System Restore to restore Windows XP to a previous state, follow these steps: 1. Log on to Windows as Administrator. 2. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click System Restore. System Restore starts. 54
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3. On the Welcome to System Restore page, click Restore my computer to an earlier time (if it is not already selected), and then click Next. 4. On the Select a Restore Point page, click the most recent system restore point in the On this list, click a restore point list, and then click Next. Note A System Restore message may appear that lists configuration changes that System Restore will make. Click OK. 5. On the Confirm Restore Point Selection page, click Next. System Restore restores the previous Windows XP configuration, and then restarts the computer. 6. Log on to the computer as Administrator. The System Restore Restoration Complete page is displayed. 7. Click OK. 2.1.9.2 How to undo a system restoration after you perform a System Restore You may have unintentionally restored Windows XP to a previous configuration that you do not want. To undo the restoration, follow these steps: 1. Log on to Windows as Administrator. 2. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click System Restore. System Restore starts. 3. On the Welcome to System Restore page, click Undo my last restoration, and then click Next. Note A System Restore message may appear that lists configuration changes that System Restore will make. Click OK. 4. On the Confirm Restoration Undo page, click Next. System Restore restores the original Windows XP configuration, and then restarts the computer. 5. Log on to the computer as Administrator. The System Restore Undo Complete page appears. 6. Click OK. You can now run System Restore again from a different restore point. 1.
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Windows XP includes its own backup program, although you may need to do some digging to find it. If you use Windows XP Professional, the Windows Backup utility (Ntbackup.exe) should be ready for use. If you use Windows XP Home Edition, you'll need to follow these steps to install the utility:
1. Insert your Windows XP CD into the drive and, if necessary, double-click the CD icon in My Computer. 2. On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform Additional Tasks 3. Click Browse this CD. 4. In Windows Explorer, double-click the ValueAdd folder, then Msft, and then Ntbackup. 5. Double-click Ntbackup.msi to install the Backup utility.
By default, the Backup utility uses a wizard that makes the process straightforward. To start Backup:
1. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click Backup to start the wizard. 2. Click Next to skip past the opening page, choose Back up files and settings from the second page, and then click Next.
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3.
Now choose the location of the data, which you want to take backup
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4.
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OR
Type Control Panel in the Address dialog box found on any Windows XP window.
OR
Many folders feature a link to the Control Panel in the See Also dialog box (only in XP view).
No matter how you get to the Control Panel, it will look like this upon first viewing:
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The new Control Panel design provides multiple ways to do something, thereby making it more user-friendly. However, the new Control Panel design doesn't provide you with access to every available Control Panel tool - it only provides you access to the most commonly used tools. To access ALL of your Control Panel tools, you must switch to Classic View.
To switch to Classic View:
Click the Classic View link on the left side of your Control Panel. Click the Switch to Category View link to switch back.
Use the menubar and toolbar buttons to navigate and further explore Control Panel options.
1. Open the Control Panel (located in Start menu). 2. Under Pick a Category, click Date, Time, Language, and Regional Options. 3. Under Pick a Task, click Change the date and time. 4. The Date and Time Properties dialog box opens. 5. Use the drop down box to set the month and year. 6. Click the correct date on the calendar. 7. Click and select the current time to make a change.
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8. If necessary, click the Time Zone tab and use the drop down box to change the time zone. 9. Click OK to close the dialog box. OR 1. Right-click the time in the lower right on your desktop.
2. Choose Adjust Date/Time 3. The Date and Time Properties dialog box opens. 4. Follow above steps 5-9.
Open the Control Panel (located in Start menu). Under Pick a Category, click Appearance and Themes. Under Pick a Task, click Change the desktop background. The Display Properties dialog box opens with the Desktop tab selected. 62
In the Background box, click or use the arrow keys to view the choices. Use the drop down boxes to alter wallpaper position or color. Click OK to close the dialog box.
Advanced Users:
Click Browse to choose a picture from the My Pictures folder (or navigate to a picture located in another folder.)
Click the Customize Desktop button to alter your desktop icons or display a web page on your desktop.
Under Pick a Category, click Appearance and Themes. Under Pick a Task, click Choose a screen saver. The Display Properties dialog box opens with the Screen Saver tab selected. Click the arrow to open a drop down box. Click or use the arrow keys to view the choices. Or, click Preview to view each option on your computer screen. Press any key on your keyboard to return to the dialog box.
Click Settings to customize the appearance or your chosen screen saver. (A dialog box will notify you if your choice doesnt have any options.
In the Wait box, determine how many minutes should pass before your screen saver turns on.
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Open the Control Panel (located in Start menu). Under Pick a Category, click Appearance and Themes. Under Pick a Control Panel icon, click Taskbar and Start Menu. The Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box opens with the Taskbar tab displayed.
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Click the Start Menu tab to switch between the XP Start menu and Classic Start menu. Classic Start menu is the Start menu featured in older versions of Windows.
Challenge!
If necessary, adjust the date and time on your computer Choose new wallpaper and a screen saver for your desktop
Open the Control Panel. Under Pick a Category, choose Printers and Other Hardware. The Printers and Other Hardware folder opens. 66
Under Pick A Task, choose View installed printer or fax printers or Add a printer.
The Printers and Faxes folder opens. In the left pane, you'll see several helpful links. In the right pane, you see a list of any printers or faxes that are installed on your machine.
Make sure your printer is compatible with Windows XP. If buying a new printer, make sure to do your research before you make a purchase.
Get out your printer's manual or CD-ROM and read it. Set up your printer and attach it to your computer using a printer's cable and correct port on your computer.
Note: Many of the latest Plug and Play printers connect through a USB port. If your printer falls into this category, you may not need the Add a Printer Wizard. If you do have to use the wizard and your printer isn't listed in the Windows XP list (which usually displays when you try to add a new printer) you may have to contact the printer manufacturer for a driver. When you get the driver, follow the Add a Printer instructions on your computer.
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process as painless as possible. You can access these tools via the System Tools menu.
To open the System Tools menu:
Choose Start
All Programs
Accessories
System Tools.
2.11.1Disk Defragmenter
All Windows XP computers have at least one hard disk. The hard disk acts as your computer's storage area. Almost everything installed on your computer - applications, files, folders, and operating system - is stored here. With general use, (creating new files, deleting files, installing new software, etc) your hard disk can become fragmented. This means that parts of the same disk file become scattered over different areas of the disk. A fragmented hard disk slows down your computer and hinders its performance. To keep your hard disk running smoothly, you must routinely defragment or "defrag" the hard disk. The Disk Defragmenter tool can help you do this.
To use Disk Defragmenter:
Choose
Start
All
Programs
Accessories
System
Tools
Disk 68
Defragmenter.
Open Disk Defragmenter. Open the Action menu. Click Help. A Microsoft Management Console opens and explains how to run Disk Defragmenter.
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Note: You may need to be logged in as an administrator or as a member of the Administrators group to perform some tasks associated with the Disk Defragmenter. Disk Defragmenter should be run every three months.
Choose Cleanup.
Start
All
Programs
Accessories
System
Tools
Disk
The Disk Cleanup window opens. Click the Disk Cleanup tab if it's not showing. Disk Cleanup lists several potential files that can be deleted and the amount of disk space you'll gain by emptying each one.
To learn more about a file category, click it and click the View Files button. A description appears. 70
Click the checkboxes next to the categories you want to delete and click OK. A dialog box appears, stating, "Are you are sure you want to perform these actions?" Click Yes or No as appropriate.
The More Options tab gives you even more disk cleanup options.
Note: It's recommended that you run Disk Cleanup every three months.
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All Programs
Accessories
System Tools
Scheduled
OR
Control Panel
Scheduled
THEN
The Scheduled Tasks folder opens. Double-click Add a Scheduled Task. The Scheduled Tasks Wizard opens. Keep clicking Next to select the program(s) you want Windows to run. If the task you want is not listed, click the Browse button to locate it. Then schedule a convenient time.
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While doing regular maintenance on your computer should keep it running smoothly, your computer may occasionally freeze up or become unresponsive to the click of a mouse or keyboard.
If your computer freezes, try waiting it out. Sometimes it takes your computer a few seconds to complete a task.
OR
OR Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete on your keyboard. The Windows Task Manager opens. Here, monitor applications, processes, performance, networking, and users. If you need to restart your computer, choose Shut Down computer, choose Shut Down Turn Off. Restart. If you need to turn off your
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You can choose taskbar and menu options to suit your preferences and to customize your desktop to the way you workkeeping important commands accessible. In this section, see step by step tutorials to: Keep the Taskbar on Top of Other Windows Display the QuickLaunch Bar on the Taskbar Customize the Start Menu Specify the Classic Look and Behavior for the Start Menu
Mouse actions 1
On the Start menu:
Be sure you are in Classic View (all Control Panel icons are showing). If not, under Control Panel in the left pane, select Switch to Classic View. Select Taskbar and Start Menu.
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In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box, on the Taskbar tab:
Select (or clear) the Keep the taskbar on top of other windows check box. Select OK. 4
To close Control Panel:
Control Panel: Taskbar and Start Menu: Taskbar tab: Keep the taskbar on top of other windows
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Mouse actions 1
On the Start menu:
Be sure you are in Classic View (all Control Panel icons are showing). If not, under Control Panel in the left pane, select Switch to Classic View. Select Taskbar and Start Menu. 3
In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box, on the Taskbar tab:
Select (or clear) the Show Quick Launch check box. Select OK. 4
To close Control Panel:
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Taskbar tab:
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Mouse actions 1
On the Start menu:
Be sure you are in Classic View (all Control Panel icons are showing). If not, under Control Panel in the left pane, select Switch to Classic View. Select Taskbar and Start Menu. 3
In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box:
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In the Customize Start Menu dialog box, on the General tab: Under Select an icon size for programs, choose:
Large icons, or Small icons. Under Programs: Choose the number of programs you want to appear on the Start menu. Under Show on Start menu: Select an Internet program from the list of installed programs. Select an E-mail program from the list of installed programs. Select OK twice. 6
To close Control Panel:
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2.11.9 Specify the Classic Look and Behavior for the Start Menu
If you are more comfortable with the look and behavior of the Start menu used in earlier versions of Windows, you can specify the Classic Start menu as your default. This procedure tells you how to select this option through Taskbar and Start Menu Properties in Control Panel.
Mouse actions 1
On the Start menu:
Be sure you are in Classic View (all Control Panel icons are showing). If not, under Control Panel in the left pane, select Switch to Classic View. Select Taskbar and Start Menu. 3
In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box:
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Control Panel: Taskbar and Start Menu: Start Menu tab: Classic Start menu
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If you have a network adapter installed, and have set up a home or small office network, you are connected to a local area network (LAN). You are also connected to a LAN if your Windows XP Professional computer is part of a corporate network. When you start your computer, your network adapter is detected and the local area connection automatically starts. Unlike other types of connections, the local area connection is created automatically, and you do not have to click the local area connection in order to start it.
Notes
A local area connection is automatically created for each network adapter that is detected.
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If more than one network adapter is installed, you can eliminate possible confusion by immediately renaming each local area connection to reflect the network that it connects to. If your computer has one network adapter, but you need to connect to multiple LANs (for example, when traveling to a regional office), the network components for your local area connection need to be enabled or disabled each time you connect to a different LAN. If more than one network adapter is installed, you need to add or enable the network clients, services, and protocols that are required for each local area connection. When you do so, the client, service, or protocol is added or enabled for all other network and dial-up connections.
Wireless Networking
Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click Network Connections. Open Network Connections. Click the wireless network connection icon, and then, under Network Tasks, click View available wireless networks. Choose the wireless network from the list that appears, and then click Connect. If the network is one that supports Wireless Provisioning Services, such as a public wireless network or a corporate network, you might be asked to download additional files that will allow your computer to connect to the network.
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If the Web site listed in the dialog box is one that you trust to provide you with this information, click Download. Otherwise, click Cancel and choose a different network to connect to. Once the files are downloaded (or if they were previously downloaded), follow the instructions in the Wireless Network Registration Wizard. If the network you choose is security-enabled, one of the following will occur: If the network key is automatically provided by your network or system administrator (that is, the network supports IEEE 802.1x), the connection will be made automatically. If the network key is not automatically provided, in Network key, type the key. To configure other wireless network connection settings, or if you are having difficulty making a connection to the wireless network that you selected, under Related Tasks, click Change advanced settings, select the wireless network that you want to configure, and then click Properties. If the wireless network is not in the list, click Add.
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Open Network Connections. Click the connection you want to configure, and then, under Network Tasks, click Change settings of this connection.
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Connecting to the Internet In this section you will use the New Connection Wizard to connect to the Internet via a broadband or dial-up connection. If you are connecting via a dial-up connection, you must have the name and phone number of your ISP, your user account name, and your password. If you are connecting via a password-protected broadband connection, you must have the name of your ISP, your user account name, and your password. Mouse actions
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Be sure you are in Classic View (all Control Panel icons are showing). If not, under Control Panel in the left pane, select Switch to Classic View. Select Network and Internet Connections 3 Click the Set up or change your Internet connection task. The Internet Properties dialog box appears with the Connections tab displayed 4
Click Setup to open the New Connection Wizard.
Important The first time you use the New Connection Wizard, the Location Information dialog box is displayed so that you can enter the local area code and a few other pieces of information that should be common to any connection you create.
If the Location Information dialog box appears, click OK, provide the requested information, and then click OK again. Click Next to move to the wizard's Network Connection Type page. Click Connect to the Internet, and then click Next. On the Getting Ready page, click Set up my connection manually, and then click Next to display the connection options If you are connecting using a modem and phone line, select the first option, and click Next. You will then be prompted for the name and phone number of your ISP, your user account name, and your password. You must also specify whether to turn on the Internet Connection Firewall (a security feature that comes with Windows XP) for this connection and who can use the connection.
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Reference: 2.2 Introduction to Computer by Peter Norton 2. www.wikipedia.org (with page and date)
3. www.microsoft.com (reference with page and date) 4. www.clearleadinc.com/site/computer-technology.html (page and date)
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