book

Microsoft® Windows® XP Inside Out, 2nd Edition

by Ed Bott, Carl Siechert, Craig Stinson

October 2004

Intermediate to advanced

1344 pages

41h 36m

English

Microsoft Press

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Microsoft® Windows® XP Inside Out, Second Edition
A Note Regarding Supplemental Files
Frequently Asked Questions
Ten Best Tips
Acknowledgments
We'd Like to Hear from You!
About the CD
What's on the CDUsing the CDSystem RequirementsSupport Information
Conventions and Features Used in This Book
Text ConventionsDesign Conventions
About the Authors
1. Setup and Startup

1. What's New in Windows XP
Windows XP at a GlanceWhat's New? What's Changed?
2. Installing and Configuring Windows XP
Avoiding Compatibility ProblemsPreparing to Install Windows XPSetting Up Windows XPPerforming a Clean InstallUpgrading a Previous Windows VersionInstalling Windows XP on a Computer with Other Operating SystemsAvoiding Dual-Boot DisastersRemoving an Operating System from a Dual-Boot SystemControlling Setup with SwitchesActivating Windows XPAutomated Setup OptionsInstalling the Deployment ToolsUsing Answer Files for Automated InstallationCreating an Answer FileCustomizing an Answer FileUsing an Answer File During SetupUsing Disk ImagingMoving Windows Settings and FilesTransferring Files and Settings Between ComputersSaving Files and Settings to a Folder or DriveChoosing Files and Settings to TransferSettings OnlyFiles OnlyBoth Files And SettingsCustomizing the List of Saved Files and SettingsRestoring Files and Settings on Your New ComputerAccessibility OptionsAdding and Removing Windows ComponentsSelecting a Web Browser and Other Middleware ComponentsConfiguring System Restore OptionsConfiguring Startup OptionsCustomizing Multiboot MenusModifying Boot.iniAdding the Recovery Console
3. Help and Support Options
Using the Help And Support CenterSearching for Help TopicsUsing the Help IndexCustomizing the Help And Support CenterSharing Help FilesConnecting to Another PC with Remote AssistanceHow Remote Assistance WorksSending a Remote Assistance InvitationInitiating a Remote Assistance Session as the ExpertWorking in a Remote Assistance SessionMaintaining SecurityImproving Remote Assistance PerformanceOther Support ResourcesContacting Microsoft Support
4. Installing, Uninstalling, and Managing Programs
How User Rights Affect Program Setup OptionsInstalling ProgramsInstalling 32-Bit Windows ProgramsInstalling and Running 16-Bit Windows ProgramsInstalling and Configuring MS-DOS ProgramsMaking a Program Available to All UsersForcing Older Programs to Run ProperlyManaging Installed ProgramsUninstalling ProgramsManaging Program ShortcutsRunning a Program as Another User
5. Setting Up and Troubleshooting Hardware
A Crash Course in Device DriversAre Signed Drivers Safer?Will Drivers Written for Other Windows Versions Work with Windows XP?Setting Up a New DeviceManaging the Plug and Play ProcessConfiguring Non–Plug and Play DevicesFinding Information About an Installed DriverViewing Device and Driver DetailsTroubleshooting Hidden and Unknown DevicesAdjusting Advanced SettingsViewing and Changing Resource AssignmentsManaging Installed DriversUpdating a Device DriverRolling Back to a Previous Driver VersionUninstalling a DriverEnabling and Disabling Specific DevicesDecoding Hardware Errors
2. Keeping Your System Secure
6. Security Essentials
Windows Security IssuesSecurity ThreatsBasic PreventionWhat's New in Service Pack 2Monitoring Windows XP SecurityBlocking Intruders with Windows FirewallEnabling or Disabling Windows FirewallPreventing All Incoming TrafficDisabling Windows Firewall for Individual ConnectionsAllowing Connections Through the FirewallWorking with ExceptionsCreating an Exception for a ProgramOpening a PortCreating Exceptions for a ServerEnabling Ping and Other Diagnostic CommandsLogging Firewall ActivityControlling Windows Firewall with Group PolicyUsing the Netsh Command to Manage Windows FirewallAlternatives to Windows FirewallKeeping Your System Secure with Windows UpdateUsing Windows Update ManuallyAutomating Your UpdatesDownloading Update Files for Multiple ComputersDisabling Windows UpdateBlocking Viruses and Worms with an Antivirus ProgramFinding an Antivirus ProgramUsing an Antivirus ProgramLearning More About Viruses and Virus ProtectionAdvanced Security Tools and TechniquesIdentifying Vulnerabilities with Microsoft Baseline Security AnalyzerKeeping Up with Security News
7. Managing User Accounts, Passwords, and Logons
Introducing Windows XP SecurityPermissions and RightsUser AccountsAccount TypesUser ProfilesSimple File Sharing vs. Windows 2000–Style SharingWorking with User AccountsCreating a New User AccountChanging Account SettingsDeleting an AccountControlling How Users Log OnUsing the Welcome ScreenBypassing the Logon ScreenConfiguring Fast User SwitchingLogging Off or Locking Your ComputerWhat Happened to the Administrator Account?Logging On as AdministratorSecuring the Administrator AccountAdvanced Account Setup OptionsUsing the Local Users And Groups Snap-InUsing the Net User and Net Localgroup CommandsNet UserNet LocalgroupWorking with Domain AccountsSetting Logon PasswordsCreating a Secure PasswordSetting a PasswordTightening Password SecurityRecovering from a Lost PasswordSetting Up Windows XP on a Shared Computer
8. Securing Files and Folders
How Setup Decisions Dictate Your Security OptionsNTFS vs. FAT32Simple File Sharing vs. Advanced PermissionsDefault Locations for Shared FilesKeeping Your Own Files PrivateControlling Access with NTFS PermissionsApplying Advanced Security SettingsWorking with Built-in Users and GroupsApplying Permissions to Subfolders Through InheritanceTesting the Effect of PermissionsUsing Special PermissionsSetting Permissions from a Command PromptTaking Ownership of Files and FoldersTroubleshooting Permission Problems
9. Securing Your Internet Connection
What's New in Service Pack 2Setting Up Your Internet ConnectionProtecting Your System from Unsafe and Unwanted SoftwareDownloading Executable FilesDealing with Automatic DownloadsControlling ActiveX DownloadsControlling ScriptsTo Trust or Not to Trust?Managing ActiveX and Java ControlsManaging Browser Add-onsDefining Security Zones for Web SitesAdding Sites to a ZoneChanging a Zone's Security SettingsBlocking Objectionable ContentBlocking Unrated SitesTurning Off BlockingUsing E-Mail SafelyGuarding Against Hazardous E-Mail AttachmentsGuarding Against Rogue HTML ContentDefending Yourself Against SpamProtecting Your PrivacyGuarding Passwords and Other Sensitive DataClearing Your HistoryFinding Additional Security Resources
3. Customizing Windows
10. Tuning Up System Performance
Detecting Common Performance BottlenecksMonitoring Memory UsageAvoiding CPU OverloadMaking the Most of Virtual MemoryManaging Programs and ProcessesConfiguring Programs That Run AutomaticallyUsing Policies to Control Startup ApplicationsRun These Programs At User LogonDo Not Process The Run Once ListDo Not Process The Legacy Run ListControlling Services at StartupAdvanced System Performance MeasurementMonitoring Current and Recent Information with System MonitorAdding CountersChanging the Chart's Display CharacteristicsChanging the Vertical Axis ScaleChanging a Counter's Scaling FactorChanging Colors, Fonts, and TitlesEmphasizing a Particular LineChanging the Sampling IntervalSaving and Reusing System Monitor SettingsAdvanced System Tweaks
11. Tweaking the Windows XP Interface
A Road Map to the Windows XP User InterfaceMaking It Easy to Start Your Favorite ProgramsSetting the Appearance of the Start MenuControlling the Content of the Start MenuAdding an Item to the MenuDeleting an Item from the MenuMoving or Copying a Menu ItemSorting Menu ItemsRenaming a Menu ItemManaging the Most Frequently Used Programs ListUsing Personalized MenusUsing Policies to Restrict Start Menu ContentsUsing the Quick Launch Bar and Other Desktop ToolbarsInstalling and Removing ToolbarsSizing and Positioning ToolbarsCustomizing ToolbarsCreating a New ToolbarMaking It Easy to Open Your Favorite DocumentsWorking with Recently Opened DocumentsRemoving Items from the My Recent Documents MenuRemoving the My Recent Documents MenuCustomizing the Start Menu with Shortcuts to Other FoldersManaging Desktop ClutterControlling Desktop IconsMaking Desktop Icons Easier to SeeChanging the BackgroundDisplaying Web Content on Your DesktopMoving and Sizing Web ContentUpdating Web ContentRemoving Web Content from Your DesktopChanging Colors, Fonts, and Visual EffectsModifying the Predefined Color SchemesInstalling Additional ThemesSkinning Windows XPCustomizing Visual Effects for Better PerformanceCustomizing the TaskbarChanging the Taskbar's Size and AppearanceMaking More Room on the TaskbarGetting the Taskbar Out of Your WayRemoving Unneeded Icons from the Notification AreaStreamlining Control PanelCustomizing Windows XP with Tweak UI
12. Advanced Internet Explorer Options
Choosing a Default Web Browser and Java Virtual MachineCustomizing the Internet Explorer User InterfaceRepositioning ToolbarsTailoring the Standard Buttons ToolbarCustomizing the Links ToolbarConfiguring Internet Explorer to Work with Other ProgramsUsing (or Refusing) AutoCompleteClearing the AutoComplete HistoryUsing Inline AutoCompleteManaging Your FavoritesAdding an Item to Your Favorites ListUsing the Ctrl+D Keyboard ShortcutDragging the Current Page to the Favorites BarUsing the Add To Favorites CommandEditing FavoritesAssigning a Keyboard ShortcutMaking a Favorite Available OfflineOrganizing FavoritesImporting, Exporting, and Sharing Your FavoritesUsing Third-Party Favorites (Bookmark) ManagersBlocking Pop-UpsSetting the Filter LevelCreating a Custom Filter LevelAllowing Pop-Ups from Specific SitesConfiguring Notification OptionsAllowing Pop-up Blocker to Work in the Local Intranet or Trusted Sites ZoneManaging CookiesViewing a Site's Privacy ReportOverriding Your Privacy Setting for Particular Web SitesDispensing with Automatic Cookie HandlingBacking Up Your CookiesSearching the InternetUsing Search CompanionForwarding Your Query to Other Search EnginesChanging the Default Search EngineUsing Classic Internet SearchChanging Search Assistant's Default ProvidersUsing a Single Search ProviderSearching from the Address BarManaging the Web CacheChanging the Size of the CacheMoving the CacheControlling How Internet Explorer Uses the CacheEmptying the Cache AutomaticallyUsing Internet Explorer as an FTP Client
13. Managing User Profiles
Introducing User ProfilesLocation and Content of User ProfilesTypes of ProfilesCommon ProfilesWorking with User ProfilesRemoving a User ProfileCopying a User ProfileAssigning a ProfileMoving Folders from the Standard Profile LocationsUsing Roaming User ProfilesSetting Up the Shared Folder for Roaming ProfilesSetting Up User AccountsCreating the Profile
14. Configuring Shutdown and Power Management Options
How Does Your Computer Manage Power?Configuring Your Computer's BIOSConserving Power on All Computers—Even Desktops!Using Standby to Reduce Power UseShutting Down Your ComputerHibernating for Maximum Power SavingsWaking Up Your ComputerUsing Power SchemesConserving Power on Portable ComputersDisplaying a Power Status IndicatorProtecting Your Data During a Power OutageConfiguring a UPSACPI vs. APMDetermining Whether Your System Is ACPI-CompliantUpgrading to ACPI SupportEnabling APM Power ManagementAdministering Power Options from the Command Prompt
15. Automating Windows XP
Scheduling Tasks to Run AutomaticallyRunning a Program at a Scheduled TimeMonitoring Scheduled TasksAdvanced Scheduling OptionsRestricting the Task Scheduler with PoliciesScheduling Tasks with the Schtasks CommandDownloading Web Pages at a Scheduled TimeAdding a Page to Your Offline Web Pages ListChanging Offline Web Page SettingsAutomating Command Sequences with Batch ProgramsUsing Batch CommandsGetting More Information About Command-Line ToolsCreating a Simple Batch ProgramUsing Advanced TechniquesBacking Up the Removable Storage DatabaseCleaning Out the Recent Documents ListAlphabetizing Your Favorites Menu and Your Start MenuAutomating Tasks with Windows Script HostFinding Scripting ResourcesChoosing a Scripting LanguageUsing the Script File FormatDebugging ScriptsUsing Other Debugger WindowsStepping Through ScriptsIntroducing ObjectsUsing the FileSystemObjectExample ScriptsEnabling or Disabling Windows FirewallKeeping a Journal
4. Storage and File Management
16. Windows Explorer for Experts
Choosing Between Common Tasks and Classic FoldersToggling Between Folder ViewsUsing the Details Section of the Task PaneCustomizing the ToolbarsDisplaying the Status BarUsing Explorer BarsUsing the Search BarUsing the Favorites BarUsing the Media BarUsing the History BarUsing the Folders BarChoosing View OptionsMaking All Folders Use the Same ViewChanging Views in Common Dialog BoxesCustomizing the Common Dialog Boxes with Group PolicyCustomizing the Common Dialog Boxes with Tweak UICustomizing Details ViewSorting and Grouping IconsChoosing a Folder TemplatePutting Pictures on Folder IconChoosing Advanced Folder OptionsAutomatically Search for Network Folders and PrintersDisplay File Size Information in Folder TipsDisplay Simple Folder View in Explorer's Folders ListDisplay the Contents of System FoldersDisplay the Full Path in the Address Bar and Title BarDo Not Cache ThumbnailsHidden Files and FoldersHide Extensions for Known File TypesHide Protected Operating System Files (Recommended)Launch Folder Windows in a Separate ProcessManaging Pairs of Web Pages and FoldersRemember Each Folder's View SettingsRestore Previous Folder Windows at LogonShow Control Panel in My ComputerShow Encrypted or Compressed NTFS Files in ColorShow Pop-Up Descriptions for Folder and Desktop ItemsUse Simple File Sharing (Recommended)Using Cascading Folder MenusWorking with File Types and File AssociationsChanging the Default Action for a File TypeChanging the Application Associated with a File TypeChanging a File Type's IconMaking the Extension of a Particular File Type VisibleSpecifying Download BehaviorCustomizing a File Type's Shortcut MenuAdding a Shortcut Menu CommandChanging a Shortcut Menu CommandRemoving a Shortcut Menu CommandCustomizing Shortcut Menus by Editing the RegistryHow Shortcut Menu Information Is Recorded in the RegistryCreating a Per-Computer Shortcut Menu CommandCreating a Per-User Shortcut-Menu CommandAdding a Command to an Extended Shortcut MenuIncluding Environment Variables in Command StringsCustomizing the Shortcut Menu for All Files of a "Perceived" File TypeCustomizing the Shortcut Menu of Unregistered File TypesCustomizing the Shortcut Menu of All File TypesCustomizing the Shortcut Menus of System ObjectsEditing the Registry to Remove a Shortcut Menu CommandUsing Windows Explorer's Command-Line SyntaxUsing GUIDs to Open Shell Folders in Windows Explorer
17. Managing and Finding Files
Seven Principles of Effective File ManagementUsing Tools for File ManagementManipulating Files with the Folders BarInspecting and Setting File PropertiesUsing Details View to See and Compare Properties of Many FilesCreating and Customizing Document ShortcutsProtecting Files with the Read-Only AttributeMaximizing Storage Space with NTFS Compression and Compressed (Zipped) FoldersImplementing NTFS CompressionUsing Zipped FoldersCopying Files to CDsUsing and Configuring the Recycle BinChanging the Amount of Space Allocated to the Recycle BinDisabling the Recycle BinSuppressing Confirmation PromptsRestoring Files and FoldersPurging the Recycle BinLocating Files with Search CompanionSpecifying a Search TypeSearching for Digital MediaSearching for DocumentsSearching for All Files and FoldersSearching for Network FilesRefining a SearchOverriding DefaultsSaving and Reusing Search CriteriaUsing Indexing Service and Query LanguageSecurity and Indexing ServiceLimitations of Indexing ServiceActivating Indexing ServiceSubmitting Index QueriesPhrase and Free-Text Query ExpressionsRestrictions on Content QueriesWorking with PropertiesThe EQUALS and CONTAINS OperatorsRelational OperatorsDate and Time ExpressionsBoolean OperatorsOrder of Operator PrecedencePattern-Matching QueriesQueries That Use MS-DOS-Style Wildcard CharactersQueries That Use UNIX-Style Regular ExpressionsQueries That Look for Alternative Word FormsAdministering Indexing ServiceAn Overview of the Indexing ProcessIndexing Files with Unknown ExtensionsSupplying an Alias for a Folder NameStopping, Pausing, and RestartingChanging the Folders Included in a CatalogExcluding Specific Files on NTFS DisksManually Rescanning a FolderAdjusting Indexing Service's Performance Parameters
18. Managing Disks and Drives
Hard Disk Management 101NTFS or FAT32: Which Disk Format Should You Choose?Converting a FAT32 Disk to NTFSBasic and Dynamic DisksWorking with Partitions, Volumes, and DisksCreating Partitions from Free Disk SpaceCreating Partitions on a Basic DiskCreating a Simple Volume on a Dynamic DiskCombining Volumes from Dynamic DisksCreating Logical DrivesFormatting a Partition, Volume, or Logical DriveAssigning or Changing a Volume LabelDeleting a Partition, Volume, or Logical DriveAssigning and Changing Drive Letters or Drive PathsChecking Properties and Status of a Disk or PartitionSetting Quotas for Disk Space UseEnabling Disk QuotasManaging Disk QuotasSetting AutoPlay Options for Removable DrivesWorking with Writable and Rewritable CD Drives
5. Mastering Digital Media
19. Using and Customizing Windows Media Player
What's New in Windows Media PlayerControlling File Type AssociationsChanging the Default Application for Individual File ExtensionsChanging the AutoPlay Behavior of a CD or DVD DriveManaging Multiple Media PlayersCustomizing Audio and Video PlaybackVarying Playback SpeedAdding Surround Sound SupportUsing the Graphic Equalizer and SRS WOW EffectsTweaking Video PerformanceOptimizing Streaming Media PlaybackCustomizing the Player's AppearanceToggling the Menu BarWorking with the Enhancements PaneToggling the Playlist DisplayToggling the TaskbarUsing VisualizationsUsing SkinsAdding Skins and VisualizationsChanging the Player's ColorUsing the Mini Player ToolbarExtending the Player's CapabilitiesAdding and Updating CodecsInstalling and Configuring Plug-insPlaying Audio CDsViewing Media Information and Album ArtSecurity and Privacy IssuesConfiguring Security OptionsConfiguring Privacy OptionsWatching DVD MoviesUnderstanding and Protecting Your Digital RightsBacking Up Your LicensesRestoring Your Licenses
20. Managing a Digital Music Collection
Configuring Windows Media Player to Copy Music from CDsDeciding Whether to Use Copy ProtectionChoosing an Audio Format and Bit RateDeciding How to Name Your Files and Where to Store ThemRipping Audio Tracks from CD to Hard DiskEditing Track Information Before You CopyWhat to Do If Windows Media Doesn't Recognize Your DiscAdding Album and Track Information Before You RipEditing Album and Track Information After You RipRenaming Ripped FilesManaging Your Media LibraryAdding Items to Your Media LibraryAdding Items AutomaticallyUsing Search to Add ItemsAdding Items When They Are PlayedAdding Specific Files or URLsEditing Metadata Tags in the Media LibraryRating Tracks in Your Music CollectionAdding Lyrics and Other DetailsSearching for Items in Your Media LibraryWorking with Your Media Library in Windows ExplorerDeleting Items from Your Media LibraryWorking with PlaylistsCreating a Custom PlaylistSaving Searches as Auto PlaylistsExporting and Importing PlaylistsBurning Custom CDsCopying to a Portable Device
21. Organizing and Editing Images
Setting Up a Scanner or Digital CameraSaving and Editing ImagesChoosing the Right File FormatCompressing and Shrinking Image FilesShrinking Images for E-MailOptimizing Image Files for the WebCompressing Image FilesCreating an HTML Slide ShowPrinting Digital PhotosManaging Images in Windows ExplorerCustomizing Folders for ImagesViewing and Annotating Image Files
22. Using Windows Movie Maker
What You Need to Use Windows Movie MakerIntroducing Windows Movie MakerThe Process of Making a MovieGathering and Managing Source MaterialsCapturing from VideotapePreviewing During the CaptureLetting Windows Movie Maker Create Clips AutomaticallyCapturing Live VideoImporting Media Files into Windows Movie MakerWorking with ClipsPreviewing ClipsSplitting ClipsJoining ClipsCreating New ClipsTaking Still Pictures from Captured VideoWorking with Collections FoldersBacking Up the Collections DatabaseRepairing Damaged LinksAssembling Your Project on the Storyboard and TimelineTrimming ClipsUsing Still ImagesUsing Video TransitionsUsing Video EffectsWorking with SoundAdding Music or Other Background SoundFading In and Out of Sound ClipsAdding NarrationAdjusting Volume LevelsChanging the Balance of Sound Between the Audio and Audio/Music TracksTrimming and Moving Clips on the Audio/Music TrackCreating Titles and CreditsUsing AutoMovie to Generate Movies AutomaticallyRendering Your Project into a MovieRendering to a Disk FileRendering to a Recordable CDRendering to an E-Mail AttachmentRendering to the WebRendering to a DV CameraResources for Further Learning
6. Networking
23. Setting Up a Small Network
What You Can and Can't Do with a Small NetworkHardware, Cabling, and ConnectionsInstalling and Configuring Network AdaptersMaking Connections: Cables and HubsSetting Up a Wireless NetworkYour Wireless Security OptionsConnecting to a Wireless NetworkManaging Wireless Network ConnectionsConfiguring a New Wireless NetworkConfiguring a Default Network ConnectionUsing the Network Setup WizardAdjusting Network SettingsInstalling and Configuring ProtocolsConfiguring Workgroup SettingsSetting IP AddressesSharing an Internet Connection
24. Tweaking and Troubleshooting a Small Network
Troubleshooting TCP/IP ProblemsChecking for Connection ProblemsDiagnosing IP Address ProblemsRepairing Your TCP/IP ConfigurationResolving DNS IssuesFixing Problems with My Network PlacesNetwork Troubleshooting ToolsFine-Tuning Network PerformanceAdvanced Networking ComponentsBridging Two Networks
25. Managing Shared Folders and Printers
Introducing Windows XP Sharing and Security ModelsSharing a Folder over a NetworkEnabling File SharingUsing the Guest Account for Simple SharingRestricting Access to Network SharesPreparing for Classic Security: Setting Up User AccountsSharing a Folder Using Classic SecurityAssigning Permissions to a Shared FolderManaging Shared FoldersViewing and Changing Share PropertiesUnderstanding Administrative SharesCreating a New Share Using the Shared Folders Snap-InRemoving a Share Using the Shared Folders Snap-InViewing and Disconnecting SessionsViewing and Closing FilesWarning Other UsersAccessing Shared FoldersAdding a Network PlaceUsing Network Places with ApplicationsGaining Access to Shared Folders on Another ComputerWindows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional with Simple File Sharing EnabledWindows XP Professional with Simple File Sharing Disabled or Windows 2000Windows 98 or Windows MeWorking with Mapped Network FoldersMapping a Network Folder to a Drive LetterUnmapping a Mapped Network FolderSharing a PrinterUsing a Network-Interface PrinterSetting Permissions on Shared PrintersSetting Hours of Availability and Other OptionsUsing Separator PagesSetting Up a Printer for Non–Windows XP ClientsSetting Server PropertiesCommand-Line Utilities for Managing Shared ResourcesNet ShareViewing Share InformationAdding or Modifying a ShareDeleting a User ShareNet UseViewing ConnectionsAdding a Mapped Network DriveDisconnecting a Mapped DriveNet SessionViewing Session InformationDisconnecting a SessionNet FileNet Statistics
26. Remote Access Options
Setting Up a Remote Desktop Connection to Another ComputerWhat You Need to Use Remote DesktopSetting Up the Remote ComputerSetting Up the Client ComputerConfiguring a Web Server for Use with Remote Desktop Web ConnectionUsing Remote Desktop ConnectionConnecting to a Remote DesktopConnecting from a Web BrowserWorking with Different Screen ResolutionsAccessing Local ResourcesUsing the Keyboard with Remote Desktop ConnectionConfiguring Performance OptionsSaving a Remote Desktop ConfigurationDisconnecting a Remote Session
7. Using E-mail, Fax, and Messaging
27. Using and Customizing Outlook Express
Getting Started with Outlook ExpressSetting Up AccountsCreating a Mail AccountCreating a News AccountCreating a Directory Service AccountEditing Account InformationCustomizing the Look of Outlook ExpressPreviewing MessagesNavigating FoldersDisplaying ContactsSetting Basic OptionsChecking for Mail at Regular IntervalsMinimizing Connect Time with Dial-Up AccountsControlling the Format of Outbound MessagesMaking Outlook Express the Default Mail and News HandlerSetting Security OptionsManaging IdentitiesManaging ContactsOrganizing Contacts in FoldersAdding Individual Contacts and Distribution ListsAdding Contacts Who Have Multiple E-Mail AddressesAdding Contacts from E-Mail MessagesExchanging Electronic Business Cards (vCards)Importing and Exporting ContactsImporting Address Book DataImporting Data from Other ProgramsExporting the Address Book to a .wab FileExporting the Address Book to a .csv FilePrinting Your Address BookBacking Up Your Address BookSending MailAddressing the MessageComposing the MessageChoosing a FontWorking Directly with HTML CodeUsing StationeryInserting HyperlinksInserting Your SignatureAdding AttachmentsSetting a Priority LevelRequesting a ReceiptReading and Organizing MailViewing and Saving AttachmentsWatching, Ignoring, and Flagging MessagesUsing Views to Hide Particular Kinds of MessagesUsing Rules to Organize MessagesCreating a New RuleSending an Automatic ReplyUsing Negative CriteriaUsing Multiple CriteriaCreating a Rule from a Selected MessageBlocking Obnoxious MailSearching for MessagesSaving Messages Outside Outlook ExpressBlocking Dangerous AttachmentsUsing Hotmail and Other Server-Based SystemsUsing NewsgroupsMarking Headers Offline for Later DownloadSetting Synchronization OptionsSelecting Headers While OfflineUsing Rules to Mark Newsgroup Posts for DownloadDownloading New Messages OnlySaving Messages Before They're Deleted from the ServerMaintaining Outlook ExpressRelocating Your Message Store to Simplify BackupArchiving Old MessagesMoving Your Outlook Express Files to a New Computer
28. Sending and Receiving Faxes
Installing FaxUpgrading an Earlier Windows Fax ComponentConfiguring FaxProviding Information About YourselfSelecting a Fax Device and Configuring Send and Receive SettingsSpecifying Your Transmitting Station Identifier (TSID)Specifying Your Called Subscriber Identification (CSID)Routing Received Faxes to a Printer or FolderChoosing Paper Size, Image Quality, and OrientationSetting Retry Characteristics and Discount HoursMaking Other Device-Specific SettingsSetting Tracking PreferencesSpecifying the Locations of Fax Console's Inbox and Sent Items FoldersFaxing a Document or Cover PageFaxing a Cover Page OnlyFaxing from Microsoft OutlookAddressing Faxes in OutlookOverriding the Cover Page Default in OutlookManaging the Outbox QueueArchiving Sent FaxesReceiving FaxesReading Received FaxesArchiving Received FaxesCreating Personal Cover PagesSelecting, Sizing, and Moving ObjectsAligning ObjectsSpacing Objects EvenlyCentering Objects on the PageChanging the Z-Order of Stacked ObjectsAdding Fixed TextInserting Fields, Images, and GraphicsPreviewing and SavingManaging Security
29. Communicating Over the Internet
Introducing Windows MessengerWhat You Need to Use Windows MessengerPunching Through a FirewallSetting Startup OptionsUsing Group Policy to Disable Windows MessengerDisabling Windows Messenger in Windows XP Home EditionStarting Windows MessengerPlacing or Receiving a CallWorking with Your List of ContactsPreserving Your Online PrivacyProtecting Your IdentityProtecting Your E-mail AddressProtecting Your Phone NumbersBlocking Other UsersFinding Out Who's Watching YouHiding Your Online StatusAdding Other Participants to a ConversationSaving an Online Session as a FileMaking Audio ConnectionsUsing Your Webcam to Make Video CallsSending and Receiving FilesUsing Windows Messenger for Online MeetingsUsing WhiteboardCollaborating on a Document over the Network
8. System Maintenance and Recovery
30. Performing Routine Maintenance
Checking Disks for ErrorsDefragmenting Disks for Better PerformanceUsing Disk DefragmenterRunning Disk Defragmenter Using a Command LineManaging Disk SpaceCleaning Up with Disk CleanupUsing NTFS File CompressionSmart Backup StrategiesUsing the Windows XP Backup ProgramCreating an Automatic System Recovery BackupBacking Up with Partition ImagingOther Backup Options
31. Monitoring System Activities with Event Viewer
Types of EventsKeeping Track of Computer EventsExamining Event DetailsSearching for an EventFiltering the Log DisplayWorking with Log FilesSetting Log File Size and LongevityArchiving and Clearing Log FilesDisplaying an Archived Log FileExporting Log File InformationBacking Up Log FilesUsing Third-Party Tools to Monitor Events
32. Recovering After a Computer Crash
After a Computer Crash: Assessing the DamageUsing and Configuring Windows Error ReportingWindows Error Reporting and System CrashesConfiguring Windows Error ReportingWhat Happened to Dr. Watson?Using Advanced Startup OptionsUsing Safe ModeRestoring the Last Known Good ConfigurationOther Startup OptionsUndoing Configuration Mistakes with System RestoreWhat System Restore Does and Does Not MonitorWhen System Restore Creates Restore PointsUsing System RestoreSystem Restore Dos and Don'tsMaking Repairs from the Recovery ConsoleRecovery Console RestrictionsUsing Recovery Console CommandsRepairing Damaged Boot FilesEnabling and Disabling Services and DriversRepairing and Reinstalling Windows
33. Troubleshooting Windows Errors
Decoding STOP ErrorsHow to Read a STOP ErrorGeneral Advice for Dealing with STOP ErrorsHow to Troubleshoot Specific STOP ErrorsSTOP 0x0000000A or IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUALSTOP 0x0000001E or KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLEDSTOP 0x00000024 or NTFS_FILE_SYSTEMSTOP 0x0000002E or DATA_BUS_ERRORSTOP 0x0000003F or NO_MORE_SYSTEM_PTESSTOP 0x00000050 or PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREASTOP 0x00000077 or KERNEL_STACK_INPAGE_ERRORSTOP 0x00000079 or MISMATCHED_HALSTOP 0x0000007A or KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERRORSTOP 0x0000007B or INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICESTOP 0x0000007F or UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAPSTOP 0x0000009F or DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURESTOP 0x000000C2 or BAD_POOL_CALLERSTOP 0x000000D1 or DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUALSTOP 0x000000D8 or DRIVER_USED_EXCESSIVE_PTESSTOP 0x000000EA or THREAD_STUCK_IN_DEVICE_DRIVERSTOP 0x000000ED or UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUMESTOP 0x000000F2 or HARDWARE_INTERRUPT_STORMSTOP 0xC000021A or STATUS_SYSTEM_PROCESS_TERMINATEDSTOP 0xC0000221 or STATUS_IMAGE_CHECKSUM_MISMATCHCustomizing How Windows Handles STOP Errors
34. Editing the Registry
Understanding the Structure of the RegistryRegistry Data TypesAvoiding Registry MishapsBacking Up Before You EditUsing System Restore to Save the Registry's StateBacking Up and Restoring the System StateBrowsing and Editing with Registry EditorChanging DataAdding or Deleting KeysAdding or Deleting ValuesMonitoring Registry ChangesUsing .Reg Files to Automate Registry ChangesIdentifying the Elements of a .Reg FileUsing a .Reg File to Delete Registry DataMerging a .Reg File into the RegistryWorking with a Remote Computer's RegistryChanging Registry Key PermissionsEditing the Registry from the Command Line
9. Appendixes
A. Windows Versions at a Glance: Professional, Home Edition, and More
B. Working with the Command Prompt
Starting and Ending a Command Prompt SessionStarting Command Prompt at a Particular FolderStarting Command Prompt and Running a CommandUsing AutoRun to Execute Commands When Command Prompt StartsUsing CommandsStarting ProgramsUsing Command ExtensionsUsing File-Name and Folder-Name CompletionUsing Cmd's Command-Line SyntaxEditing the Command LineUsing WildcardsUsing Command SymbolsThe Redirection SymbolsRedirecting Input and OutputThe Pipe SymbolThe Command Combination SymbolsThe Escape SymbolPausing or Canceling CommandsSimplifying Command Entry with Doskey MacrosUsing Environment VariablesViewing Environment VariablesModifying Environment VariablesCustomizing Command Prompt WindowsSetting the Window Size and PositionSetting the Window Size and Position VisuallySelecting a FontSetting ColorsSetting Other Options
C. Using and Customizing Microsoft Management Console
Running MMC ConsolesRunning a User-Mode Console in Author ModeRunning a Console and Specifying a Target ComputerUsing MMC ConsolesCreating Your Own MMC ConsolesRunning MMC with No Snap-InDisplaying the Console TreeAdding Folders to the Console TreeAdding Snap-Ins and ExtensionsAdding ActiveX Controls and Internet LinksAdding Taskpad ViewsManipulating WindowsControlling Other Visual ElementsUsing the Favorites MenuNaming Your ConsoleChoosing Between MMC's Three User ModesImposing Further RestrictionsSaving a Console
D. Managing Services
Using the Services Snap-InStarting and Stopping ServicesConfiguring ServicesSetting Startup OptionsSpecifying Recovery ActionsViewing DependenciesDetermining a Service's NameRecommended Startup Settings for ServicesManaging Services from a Command Prompt
E. Viewing System Information
Finding Basic Information About Your ComputerFinding Information in the Help And Support CenterDigging Deeper with Dedicated System Information ToolsFinding and Decoding Information in System InformationExporting System InformationViewing System Information HistoryUsing System Information to Open Other Diagnostic Tools
F. Group Policy
Starting Group PolicyUnderstanding the Local Group Policy ObjectHow Group Policy WorksTypes of SettingsMaking Settings
G. Index to Troubleshooting Topics
Index
About the Authors
Copyright

Content preview from Microsoft® Windows® XP Inside Out, 2nd Edition

Appendix C. Using and Customizing Microsoft Management Console

Microsoft Management Console (MMC) is an application that hosts administrative tools. By itself, MMC performs no administrative services. Rather, it acts as host for one or more modules called snap-ins. The snap-ins do the useful work. MMC simply provides user-interface consistency so that you or the users you support see more or less the same style of application each time you need to carry out some kind of management task. The combination of MMC with one or more snap-ins is called an MMC console.

Creating snap-ins requires expertise in ActiveX programming. You don't have to be a programmer, however, to make your own ...

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Microsoft® Windows® XP Inside Out, 2nd Edition

by Ed Bott, Carl Siechert, Craig Stinson

Appendix C. Using and Customizing Microsoft Management Console

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