1.4: Windows 10 Control Panel

Control Panel

System settings interface allowing users to view/change various system settings and configurations in Windows; centralizes management of hardware/software, user accounts, accessibility options, and network settings.

Applets

Individual tools within Control Panel for managing specific settings and configurations.

Internet Options General Tab

Basic display settings for Internet Explorer and browsing experience.

Internet Options Security Tab

Allows setting different access and security levels based on website location.

Internet Options Privacy Tab

Customize information sharing settings such as cookies, pop-up blocker, and InPrivate browsing.

Internet Options Content Tab

Manages certificates and auto-complete settings.

Internet Options Connections Tab

Configure VPN and proxy settings.

Internet Options Programs Tab

Set default browser, manage browser plugins, and other internet programs.

Internet Options Advanced Tab

Detailed configuration options and reset settings for Internet Explorer.

Devices and Printers

Lists every device on the network including desktops, laptops, printers, multimedia devices, and storage with quick access to properties and configuration.

Programs and Features

Displays installed applications; allows uninstalling, viewing size/version, and enabling/disabling Windows features.

Network and Sharing Center

Add, modify, or remove network adapters and configure network settings like wired and wireless connections.

System Information

Displays computer information including Windows version and edition.

Windows Defender Firewall

Built-in firewall to protect from attacks and malicious software; accessible via Control Panel.

Mail Control Panel

Appears only if a mail client (e.g., Outlook) is installed; used to configure local mail accounts and data files.

Sound Control Panel

Manage output and input sound devices; set volume levels for speakers and microphones.

User Accounts Control Panel

Displays local user accounts with options to view/change passwords, pictures, and certificate info; domain accounts managed elsewhere.

Device Manager

Tool for viewing and managing hardware devices and drivers.

Indexing Options

Manages fast search indexing for browser history and user folders; allows adding other locations.

File Explorer Options

Manage File Explorer behavior; General Tab manages folder expansion, View Tab manages hidden files and extensions, Search Tab controls indexing and search scope.

Administrative Tools

Collection of system utilities primarily for system administrators and technicians; not commonly used by general users.

Power Options

Manage power usage settings including Hibernate (saves apps/docs to disk), Sleep (stores open apps in memory), power plans, and USB selective suspend for battery saving.

Hibernate

Saves open documents and apps to disk, powers off; commonly used on laptops and enables Fast Startup.

Sleep (Standby)

Saves open apps to memory for quick resume; conserves power; switches to Hibernate if battery is low.

Power Plans

Customize power settings like lid close actions and USB selective suspend; manage fast startup enable/disable.

Ease of Access Center

Provides usability enhancements for display, keyboard, mouse, and other input/output options; includes features for use without a display and pointer customization.