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Computer Basics

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Getting to Know the OS

Adjusting your computer's settings

From time to time, you'll need to adjust your computer's settings. This can range from simple tasks such as changing your desktop background to more advanced tasks like adjusting your security or network settings. On PCs, the Control Panel is used to adjust settings. On Macs, you'll use System Preferences.

To open the Control Panel (PC):

  1. Click the Start button, then select Control Panel.
    Opening the Control PanelOpening the Control Panel
  2. The Control Panel will appear. You can then select the desired category to adjust the settings.
    The Control PanelThe Control Panel

In Windows 8, you can open the Control Panel directly from the Start screen. Simply type "Control Panel", then press Enter.

To open System Preferences (Mac):

  1. Click the Apple icon, then select System Preferences.
    Opening System PreferencesOpening System Preferences
  2. The System Preferences window will appear. You can then select the desired category to adjust the settings.
    Choosing a category in System PreferencesChoosing a category in System Preferences

For more information on using Windows, check out our Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows XP tutorials.

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