Tailor your PC

Posted on 11 Mar 2008 at 12:07

14. Automate your PC with the Task Scheduler

If you find yourself regularly repeating a simple task - such as backing up a folder or deleting temp files - get it done automatically.

Hidden away under System Tools in the Accessories section of the Programs menu, you'll find an icon labelled Scheduled Tasks (XP) or Task Scheduler (Vista). You can instruct Windows to launch any program or batch file according to a regular schedule or at system startup.

15. Download PowerToys

Microsoft PowerToys is a venerable name in the world of Windows customisation - so much so, it isn't available for Vista. That's a pity because PowerToys provides fabulously easy access to a number of otherwise-buried features. Some of the tools are streamlined into Vista, while others, such as the simple but handy Image Resizer, are not. TweakUI remains one of our favourite applications of all time, mainly because it allows you to customise aspects of Windows you didn't even know you wanted to change. Download from www.pcpro.co.uk/links/162win2.

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Click here to go back to '80 expert Windows tips'.

Author: PC Pro staff