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System & Security
Most of the odds-and-ends when it comes to the how-to part of a fixing a particular problem involve some of the behind the scenes aspects of Windows.
In this "System and Security" category, you'll find a lot of those kinds of tutorials, everything from using Windows Update, to installing DirectX, to finding out what service pack you're using, and more.
How Do I Change Windows Update Settings?
Links to operating system specific instructions on changing the way Windows Update checks for, downloads, and installs new updates.
How To Enter Safe Mode Using the System Configuration Utility
How to force Windows to start in Safe Mode by making changes in the System Configuration utility.
Am I Running a 32-bit or 64-bit Version of Windows?
Knowing if your copy of Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit becomes very important when installing certain kinds of software and certainly when choosing which device drivers to install for your hardware.
How Do I Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure in Windows?
After an error like a Blue Screen of Death, your Windows PC will, by default, restart automatically. Disable the automatic restart on system failure option in Windows to view the BSOD or other error.
How Do I Disable Error Reporting in Windows?
When you disable error reporting, you stop Windows from sending information to Microsoft about errors on your computer. Error reporting is enabled by default in Windows but it's very easy to disable error reporting.
How Do I Install a Windows Gadget?
Links to Windows operating system specific tutorials on installing Windows gadgets.
How Do I Install Windows Updates?
Installing Windows updates like service packs and other patches is a necessary part of running Windows. Windows Updates can solve problems, protect from attacks, and even add new Windows features.
How Do I Properly Reinstall a Software Program?
Reinstalling a software program is one of the more basic troubleshooting steps available to any computer user. Reinstalling a program that you suspect of having problems is a very valuable but often overlooked step when trying to solve a software problem.
How To Download & Install DirectX
Instructions on updating DirectX 11, 10, or 9 in Windows 7, Vista, and XP.
How To Fake a Blue Screen of Death
How to cause a perfectly harmless Blue Screen of Death... on purpose.
What Windows Service Pack Do I Have Installed?
Directions on finding the service pack that's installed in Windows 7, Vista, and XP.
How To Prevent Windows Updates From Crashing Your PC
A list of several preventative measures, aimed at preventing potential Windows Update issues.
Windows Updates & Patch Tuesday FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the updates to Windows that Microsoft issues via Windows Update on Patch Tuesday.