Study Notes: Basic Settings and Concepts in Windows 10

1. System Settings

The System settings in Windows 10 help you control how your computer looks, behaves, and
performs. Here are the key areas:

 Display: Adjust screen brightness, resolution, and text size.

Example: If text looks too small, go to Settings > System > Display and increase the text
size under "Scale and layout."
 Notifications: Manage pop-up notifications from apps.
Example: To stop notifications from a specific app, go to Settings > System > Notifications
& actions and toggle off the app.
 Power: Set sleep and shutdown timers to save energy.
Example: To change how long your computer stays on before sleeping, go to Settings >
System > Power & sleep.
 Storage: Check how much space is left on your computer and manage files.
Example: To free up space, go to Settings > System > Storage and click "Free up space."

2. Devices
The Devices section lets you manage hardware connected to your computer.

 Printers: Add or remove printers.

Example: To add a printer, go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners and click "Add a
printer or scanner."
 Bluetooth: Connect Bluetooth devices like headphones or keyboards.
Example: To pair a Bluetooth device, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other
devices and click "Add Bluetooth or other device."
 Mouse: Adjust mouse speed and button settings.
Example: To change how fast your mouse pointer moves, go to Settings > Devices >
Mouse and adjust the cursor speed.

3. Network & Internet

This section helps you manage your internet and network connections.

 Wi-Fi: Connect to wireless networks.

Example: To connect to Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, select a
network, and enter the password.
 Ethernet: Manage wired internet connections.
Example: If your Ethernet isn’t working, go to Settings > Network & Internet >
Ethernet and check the connection status.
  Airplane Mode: Turn off all wireless connections.
Example: Use airplane mode during flights by going to Settings > Network & Internet >
Airplane mode.
 Data Usage: Monitor how much data your computer is using.
Example: To check data usage, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage.

Detailed Study Notes: Personalization in Windows 10

Personalization in Windows 10 allows you to customize the look and feel of your computer to make
it more personal and user-friendly. This includes changing the desktop background, lock screen,
themes, and Start menu. Below is a detailed explanation of each feature under
the Personalization settings.

1. Desktop Background

The desktop background is the image or color that appears behind your icons and taskbar. You can
choose from pre-installed wallpapers, use your own pictures, or even set a slideshow.
  How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Background.
 Options:
o Picture: Choose a single image as your background.
Example: Select a picture of your favorite place or a pre-installed Windows wallpaper.
o Solid Color: Use a solid color as your background.
Example: Choose a calming blue or vibrant red.
o Slideshow: Set a folder of images to rotate as your background.
Example: Use a folder of vacation photos to create a rotating slideshow.

2. Lock Screen

The lock screen is the screen that appears when you turn on your computer or wake it from sleep.
You can customize it with a picture, slideshow, or status updates from apps.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen.
 Options:
o Background: Choose between Picture or Slideshow.
Example: Set a motivational quote as your lock screen picture.
o Lock Screen Status: Show quick status updates from apps like Calendar or Mail.
Example: Enable Calendar to see your next appointment on the lock screen.
o Screen Timeout Settings: Adjust how long the lock screen stays visible before
turning off.
Example: Set it to 1 minute to save battery life.

3. Themes

Themes are pre-designed sets of backgrounds, colors, sounds, and mouse pointers that change the
overall look of your computer.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Themes.
 Options:
o Apply a Theme: Choose from pre-installed themes or download new ones from the
Microsoft Store.
Example: Apply the "Windows 10 Flowers" theme for a colorful desktop.
o Theme Settings: Customize individual elements like sounds, mouse pointers, and
desktop icons.
Example: Change the mouse pointer to a larger size for better visibility.
4. Start Menu

The Start menu is the main hub for accessing apps, settings, and files. You can customize its
appearance and layout.
  How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Start.
 Options:
o Show More Tiles: Resize the Start menu to show more or fewer app tiles.
Example: Drag the edges of the Start menu to make it larger.
o Choose Which Folders Appear: Add or remove folders like Documents, Downloads,
or Pictures.
Example: Add the Downloads folder for quick access to your files.
o Full-Screen Start: Enable this to make the Start menu cover the entire screen.
Example: Useful for touchscreen devices.

5. Colors

You can customize the color scheme of your taskbar, Start menu, and title bars.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
 Options:
o Choose a Color: Pick an accent color that matches your style.
Example: Select a bright green for a fresh look.
o Transparency Effects: Enable or disable transparency for the Start menu and taskbar.
Example: Turn off transparency for a solid, bold look.
o Dark Mode: Switch to a dark theme for better visibility in low light.
Example: Enable Dark Mode to reduce eye strain at night.

6. Taskbar

The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of your screen where you can pin apps and see open programs.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
 Options:
o Taskbar Location: Move the taskbar to the top, left, or right of the screen.
Example: Move it to the top for a different layout.
o Taskbar Icons: Choose which icons appear in the system tray (e.g., volume, Wi-Fi).
Example: Hide the volume icon if you don’t use it often.
o Combine Taskbar Buttons: Decide whether to group similar apps together.
Example: Disable this to see all open windows separately.
Key Takeaways

 Personalization settings let you customize your desktop, lock screen, themes, and Start menu.
 You can make your computer reflect your style and preferences.
 Experiment with different options to find what works best for you.

D
etailed Study Notes: Network & Internet in Windows 10

The Network & Internet settings in Windows 10 allow you to manage your computer’s connections
to the internet and other networks. This includes configuring Wi-Fi, Ethernet, airplane mode, and
data usage. Below is a detailed explanation of each feature under the Network & Internet settings.

1. Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi allows you to connect to wireless networks to access the internet.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
 Options:
 o Turn Wi-Fi On/Off: Enable or disable Wi-Fi.
Example: Turn off Wi-Fi to save battery when not in use.
o Available Networks: View and connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks.
Example: Click on your home Wi-Fi network and enter the password to connect.
o Network Properties: View details about the connected network, such as signal
strength and security type.
Example: Check if your network is using WPA2 security for better protection.

2. Ethernet

Ethernet is a wired connection to the internet, typically faster and more stable than Wi-Fi.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet.
 Options:
o Network Status: Check if your Ethernet cable is connected and working.
Example: If the status says "Not connected," check the cable and router.
o Properties: View details like IP address and connection speed.
Example: Use this to troubleshoot slow internet speeds.

3. Airplane Mode

Airplane mode disables all wireless connections, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Airplane Mode.
 Options:
o Turn Airplane Mode On/Off: Enable or disable airplane mode.
Example: Turn on airplane mode during a flight to comply with regulations.
o Manage Individual Radios: Turn Wi-Fi or Bluetooth back on while in airplane mode.
Example: Enable Wi-Fi to use in-flight internet while keeping Bluetooth off.

4. Data Usage

This feature helps you monitor how much data your computer is using.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage.
 Options:
 o View Usage Per Network: Check data usage for Wi-Fi and Ethernet.
Example: See how much data you’ve used on your home Wi-Fi this month.
o Set Data Limit: Set a limit to avoid exceeding your data plan.
Example: Set a 10GB limit if you have a limited data plan.


 Screenshot Suggestion:
Data Usage settings page showing the usage breakdown and data limit options.

5. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN allows you to connect to a private network securely over the internet.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
 Options:
o Add a VPN Connection: Set up a new VPN connection.
Example: Add your school or work VPN to access secure resources.
o Connect/Disconnect: Turn the VPN on or off.
Example: Connect to the VPN when working from home.
6. Proxy

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your computer and the internet.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.
 Options:
o Automatic Proxy Setup: Let Windows detect proxy settings automatically.
Example: Use this if your school or workplace provides automatic settings.
o Manual Proxy Setup: Enter proxy server details manually.
Example: Use this if you have specific proxy settings from your network administrator.

7. Dial-Up

Dial-up connections use a phone line to connect to the internet.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Dial-Up.
 Options:
o Set Up a New Connection: Configure a dial-up connection.
Example: Use this if you’re in an area without broadband or Wi-Fi.
o Connect/Disconnect: Start or end a dial-up connection.
Example: Connect to the internet using a phone line and modem.

Key Takeaways

 The Network & Internet settings help you manage Wi-Fi, Ethernet, airplane mode, and data
usage.
 You can monitor data usage, set up VPNs, and configure proxy settings for secure browsing.
 Airplane mode disables all wireless connections, but you can enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
individually.

Detailed Study Notes: Mobile Devices in Windows 10

Windows 10 allows you to connect and manage mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, and other
peripherals (e.g., Bluetooth devices). This integration helps you sync data, share files, and control
devices from your computer. Below is a detailed explanation of how Windows 10 interacts with
mobile devices.
1. Connecting Mobile Devices

You can connect mobile devices to your Windows 10 computer using Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices.
 Options:
o Bluetooth: Pair your smartphone or tablet wirelessly.
Example: Pair your phone to transfer files or use it as a hotspot.
o USB: Connect your device using a USB cable.
Example: Transfer photos from your phone to your computer.
o Wi-Fi: Use apps like Your Phone to sync your smartphone with your PC over Wi-Fi.
Example: Access your phone’s notifications and messages on your computer.
 Screenshot Suggestion:
Add a screenshot of the Bluetooth & other devices settings page showing the "Add
Bluetooth or other device" button.

2. Your Phone App

The Your Phone app integrates your smartphone with your Windows 10 computer, allowing you to
access messages, photos, and notifications.
  How to Access:
Open the Your Phone app from the Start menu or download it from the Microsoft Store.
 Features:
o Notifications: View and respond to phone notifications on your computer.
Example: Reply to a text message without picking up your phone.
o Photos: Access and transfer photos from your phone to your computer.
Example: Drag and drop photos from your phone to your desktop.
o Messages: Send and receive SMS messages from your computer.
Example: Type messages using your computer’s keyboard.

3. Syncing with Microsoft Account

If you use a Microsoft account on both your Windows 10 computer and mobile device, you can sync
data like contacts, calendar events, and emails.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Accounts > Sync your settings.
 Options:
o Sync Contacts and Calendar: Sync your phone’s contacts and calendar with
the People and Calendar apps on Windows 10.
Example: Add a meeting on your phone and see it appear in the Calendar app on
your computer.
o Sync Email: Access your phone’s email accounts in the Mail app on Windows 10.
Example: Check your work email on your computer without setting it up again.

4. Managing Connected Devices

Windows 10 allows you to manage and remove connected devices.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
 Options:
o Remove a Device: Unpair a device you no longer use.
Example: Remove an old Bluetooth headphone from the list.
o Device Properties: View details about a connected device.
Example: Check the battery level of a connected Bluetooth device.

5. Using Mobile Hotspot

You can use your mobile device as a Wi-Fi hotspot to share its internet connection with your
Windows 10 computer.

 How to Access:
Enable the hotspot feature on your mobile device, then connect to it via Wi-Fi on your
computer.
 Steps:
1. On your phone, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & tethering and
turn on the Wi-Fi hotspot.
2. On your computer, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi and connect to
your phone’s hotspot.

Detailed Study Notes: Devices in Windows 10

The Devices settings in Windows 10 help you manage all the hardware connected to your computer,
like printers, mice, keyboards, and more. Let’s explore each feature step by step!
1. Printers & Scanners

This section lets you add, remove, and manage printers and scanners connected to your computer.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
 Options:
o Add a Printer or Scanner: Connect a new printer or scanner to your computer.
Example: Click "Add a printer or scanner" and follow the steps to connect your home
printer.
o Manage Printers: Set a default printer or remove old ones.
Example: Set your home printer as the default so it’s automatically selected when you
print.
o Printer Properties: Adjust settings like paper size and print quality.
Example: Change the paper size to A4 for school assignments.

2. Bluetooth & Other Devices

This section helps you connect and manage Bluetooth devices like headphones, speakers, and
smartphones.
  How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
 Options:
o Add Bluetooth or Other Device: Pair a new Bluetooth device.
Example: Pair your wireless headphones to listen to music without cables.
o Manage Devices: View and remove connected devices.
Example: Remove an old Bluetooth speaker you no longer use.
o Device Properties: Check details like battery level or connection status.
Example: See how much battery is left in your wireless mouse.

3. Mouse

This section lets you customize how your mouse works.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Mouse.
 Options:
o Primary Button: Switch the left and right mouse buttons.
Example: Change the primary button to the right if you’re left-handed.
o Scroll Wheel: Adjust how many lines to scroll at a time.
Example: Set the scroll wheel to move 5 lines at a time for smoother scrolling.
o Pointer Speed: Change how fast the mouse pointer moves.
Example: Increase the pointer speed if the mouse feels too slow.
4. Typing (Keyboard)

This section helps you customize your keyboard settings.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Typing.
 Options:
o Auto-Correction: Fix typos automatically as you type.
Example: Enable auto-correction to fix common spelling mistakes.
o Text Suggestions: Get suggestions for words as you type.
Example: Use text suggestions to type faster in emails or documents.
o Hardware Keyboard: Adjust settings for external keyboards.
Example: Change the language layout for a French keyboard.

5. Pen & Windows Ink

If you have a stylus or pen, this section lets you customize how it works.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > Pen & Windows Ink.
 Options:
o Pen Shortcuts: Set actions for pen buttons.
Example: Set a button to open a sticky note for quick note-taking.
o Handwriting: Customize how your handwriting is recognized.
Example: Teach Windows to recognize your unique handwriting style.
o Cursor: Change the pen cursor’s appearance.
Example: Make the cursor larger for better visibility.

6. AutoPlay

AutoPlay controls what happens when you connect a device like a USB drive or insert a DVD.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > AutoPlay.
 Options:
o AutoPlay Settings: Choose what happens when you connect a device.
Example: Set AutoPlay to open a folder when you insert a USB drive.
o Removable Drive: Customize settings for USB drives.
Example: Set it to ask you what to do every time you plug in a USB.
o Memory Card: Customize settings for SD cards.
Example: Set it to automatically import photos from your camera’s SD card.
7. USB

This section lets you manage USB devices connected to your computer.

 How to Access:
Go to Settings > Devices > USB.
 Options:
o USB Notifications: Get alerts when you connect a USB device.
Example: Enable notifications to know when your USB drive is connected.
o Troubleshoot USB: Fix issues with USB devices.
Example: Use the troubleshooter if your USB drive isn’t working.