Working with the Windows 7 Desktop

Chapter 02. Working with the Windows 7 Desktop

In this chapter, I have learned how to use WordPad and create, name, edit, save, remove, and restore documents and folders. I've learned how to move a folder or multiply folders to another location.
I also learned how to print documents from WordPad, as well how to save, open, or remove such documents.

You learn about customizing your desktop, with shortcuts, although you don't really want to over due your desktop with these. I prefer to store my documents in a different location, unless its something I absolutely use on a daily basis. Ex. (Internet Explorer).

I've experienced a lot of lag (slower performance) on my computer having too many shortcuts on my desktop. It also makes it really confusing when you have a lot of icons/shortcuts all over the place, at least in my opinion, almost like a collage or "Where's Waldo" book.

I've learned how to Customize my Desktop with Gadgets.

I really don't use the Gadgets often on my computer, but they can be useful at times.
I just prefer a clean desktop look and less background programs running.

You will also get some hands on experience while you continue through this chapter.
I found the hands on part of this chapter to be very easy to do and understand.
I am a big fan of not just reading the material, but actually experiencing it for my self.


Below are examples, I created. Just a few of many things I have learned through out this chapter, using the Snipping Tool.

Ex: 1. Creating Shortcuts on the Desktop:

Ex: 2. Creating a Folder on Desktop:

Ex: 3. Move Multiply Files to One Folder/Location:

Shortcut- is a link to any object on the computer or on a network, as example: Programs, files, folders,Web pages, printers, or on a computer.

Documents Library- displays links to the user's documents and public documents

My Documents- contains particular user documents and folders

File- is data that is identified by a name

Ex: 4.  Documents Library and My Document

* The Documents Library only displays the links of all documents and folders.

* The My Documents folder is where everything is physically stored.

Gadgets- miniprograms used to customize your desktop,(useful tools)

Ex: 5. Using Desktop Gadgets:

Ex: 6. Searching for Gadgets & Removing Gadgets from Desktop.

*Figure 1.on the left is showing where you can find and search for more Gadgets.

*Figure 2.on the right is showing how to exit/remove a Gadget from the Desktop.

Continuing through the chapter, I have also learned how to save data to a USB Flash Drive and receive data from the USB Flash Drive. I tend to use flash drives, or SD cards, when transferring pictures or important information from one computer to another.

Below are two examples: USB Flash Drive & SD Card

Ex: 1. USB Flash Drive:

Ex: 2. SD Cards:

I've also learned how to Display and use the Preview Panel, which I find very helpful.

I've learned how to locate files using the Address Bar and Restore deleted files from

the Recycle Bin and how to Log Off or Shut Down the computer.

Along with reading Chapter 2, I also found very helpful and useful information about Windows 7 Security. I learned that the Action Center is a very useful and essential feature that can help with your computers security. Ex. Firewall settings, automatic updating, Internet security settings, Virus Protection, unwanted software protection, and spyware.

I found all these features are very important to help maintain and keep your computer safe, running, and something everyone should have knowledge about. Virus's can cause many problems for your computer and in most cases, cause it to malfunction and crash. Using a Simple virus protection suite, like AVG or Norton Security can save you a big headache and money in your pocket, at least from personal experience. Over all I learned how to help keep my computer safe from viruses and potential hackers. It was a bit tricky understanding the Security behind Windows 7, but not impossible. Also, keeping your computer always up to date will as well keep it maintained and running smooth.

Malware- malicious software that are made to harm your computer

                (viruses, inappropriate web pages, identity theft, worms)

Virus- a program that attaches itself to another program or file so that it can spread from computer to computer, infecting programs and files as it spreads.

Worm- copies itself, computer to computer, taking advantage of features that transport data and information between computers. Also, being able to travel without being detected, and replicating.

Hacker- individual who uses expertise to gain unauthorized access to a computer with intention to learn more about the computer, and its contents, with out the owners permission.

I found everything I read and did through out this chapter, including Appendix B, was very useful and easy to follow along with. I enjoyed doing the hands on activity too. I feel it helps give a better understanding about what your reading and learning, if you can experience it, hands on as well. Over all, I have learned a few new things, and it also helped refresh my memory with what I already know.

This concludes what I have learned from Chapter 2, Working with the Windows 7 Desktop.