The Control Panel is the user interface of a computer’s operating system. It is used to manage hardware, software, user data and other settings. It is usually accessible through a graphical user interface (GUI).
Options available in the Control Panel include:
System and Security: This section provides options for setting up system maintenance, accessing system restore points, configuring Windows Firewall, setting up automatic updates, troubleshooting programs, and managing user accounts.
Network and Internet: This section is used to configure internet connections and networks, as well as troubleshoot any networking issues. It also includes tools for setting up wireless networks, managing dial-up connections, and configuring sharing options.
Hardware and Sound: This section is used to configure and manage hardware, such as printers, scanners, and sound devices. It also allows users to access advanced sound options and configure audio jacks.
Programs: This section provides an overview of installed programs and allows users to install, uninstall, and repair applications. It also provides options for setting default programs and configuring file type associations.
User Accounts and Family Safety: This section provides an overview of user accounts and family safety options. It can be used to set up parental controls, create user accounts, change user passwords, configure account restrictions and user profiles, and manage user access to specific programs and applications.
Ease of Access: This category is designed to help users with visual and hearing impairments. It provides options for adjusting the size of text and icons, using narrator to read items on the screen aloud, enabling High Contrast mode, and customizing color and cursor sizes.
Clock, Language, and Region: This section provides tools for changing the clock display, formatting numbers, dates, and currencies, and adding additional languages to the system. It also provides options for managing keyboard and input languages, as well as options for setting the time zone.
App Store and Download: This section allows users to purchase and download apps and games from the Windows Store. It also provides access to Windows Update, and allows users to download patches and service packs.
Default Programs: This section is used to configure the default programs that open various file types. It also allows users to specify which browser will open web pages and links.
Search and Indexing: This section allows users to change the indexing settings and configure where to search when performing a search. It also provides options for optimizing and troubleshooting indexing issues.
Administrative Tools: This section allows administrators to access and manage administrative tools, such as server manager, computer management, event viewer, performance monitor, services, and local security policy. It also provides access to the command prompt and PowerShell.