Exploring Microsoft Windows

• logging on to windows 7
the process of starting a computing session is called logging on. after you turn on the computer and it goes through its startup processes, the windows 7 welcome screen appears.
some of the functions the windows operating system allows you to do are:
• access applications (programs) on your computer (word processing, games, spread sheets, calculators and so on)
• manage hardware such as printers, scanners, mice, digital cameras
• manage how files are stored on your computer
• change computer settings such as color schemes, screensavers, and the resolution of your monitor.

• introduction to the desktop
you should start thinking of your screen as your desktop. your desktop is what you now see on the screen (as shown below). as you are logged into the university desktop, it will look a little different to your desktop if you have a computer at home.
my documents

is the default storage folder for your files that you create? when you save, or open a file, microsoft windows initially opens the my documents dialog box. now, you can navigate to where you want to save your file.


my computer

my computer displays information about your computer, such as the contents of your computer drives and which printers you have installed. it also allows you to find, view and organize files


the recycle bin

task bar this is where you place files you no longer need. your computers data files should be tidied up regularly and any unwanted files deletingd from the system. any file you deleting from your hard drive will be placed first in the recycle bin.


internet explorer

with internet explorer and an internet connection, you can search for and view information on the world wide web. you can search the internet for people, businesses, and information about subjects that interest you, download music, copy graphics, stay in touch with or meet new friends, and a host of other activities.
• exploring the start menu

•the start menu provides access to programs, documents, and much more.
•the start menu is organized into two panes, or separate areas of a menu or window.
•the search box helps you quickly find anything stored on your computer.

• opening an application

there are many ways to open an application it is up to the user to find one or two that suit you. the most common ways are:
1. by clicking on the start button, going to the programs menu and locating the application in the list that appears.
2. by double clicking with the mouse on a shortcut icon on the desktop if one has been created. the icon shown here is the shortcut for the microsoft word application