Diving into Windows Fundamentals: Part 1
Kicking off my journey through the Windows Fundamentals module, Part 1 gave me a solid overview of core Windows concepts—from the desktop interface to behind-the-scenes system mechanics. Even as someone familiar with Windows, this deep dive was a great refresher and brought a few new things to light.
A Look Back at Windows History
I began with a brief tour through the evolution of Windows, touching on its various versions and how the operating system has matured over time. It’s fascinating to see how far the platform has come and how each version laid the groundwork for the next.
The Windows Desktop Breakdown
Next up was the GUI—the desktop we all know and use daily. I explored the components that make up the desktop: the Start Menu, search box, task view, taskbar, toolbars, and notification area. While familiar, it was helpful to get a clearer picture of how these elements work together.
NTFS: The Modern File System
Then came the New Technology File System (NTFS), which is a journaling file system capable of automatically repairing damaged files using log data. This is a big improvement over its predecessor, FAT, which lacked that capability.
System32 and Environment Variables
Digging deeper into the OS, I examined the Windows/System32 folder—a critical part of the operating system. It holds vital files and connects closely with environment variables, especially system environment variables.
User Accounts and Permissions
User accounts are foundational to how Windows manages access. There are two main types: Administrators, who have full control over the system, and Standard Users, who are limited to modifying their own files and settings. Understanding this separation is key to maintaining system security.
User Account Control (UAC)
UAC was another highlight. Introduced in Windows Vista, it ensures that even administrator sessions don't run with elevated permissions by default. When a task requires higher-level privileges, UAC prompts the user for confirmation—adding a layer of protection.
Settings vs. Control Panel
I also explored where system settings live. Historically, the Control Panel was the main hub, but with the introduction of Settings in Windows 8, there’s been a shift. Today, Settings is the primary interface for system adjustments, although Control Panel still exists for some legacy functions.
Wrapping Up with Task Manager
Finally, I looked into the Task Manager, a powerful tool that provides real-time info about active processes, system performance (CPU, RAM usage), and more. It’s essential for troubleshooting and understanding system behavior.
That wraps up Part 1 of my Windows Fundamentals journey. Up next: Windows Fundamentals Part 2, where I’ll continue peeling back the layers of Windows and its core components.
Stay tuned!
