MDGx MAX Speed WinDOwS İTricks · Secrets · Bugs · Fixes ŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻhttp://www.mdgx.com/ŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻ ŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻ Windows 7 Tweaks, Fixes, Guides, Downloads + Links ŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻŻ These topics refer STRICTLY to ALL Microsoft Windows 7 + 7 SP1 retail/final/gamma/Gold/RTM/OEM/MSDN English releases + editions [including Service Pack (SP)], unless specified otherwise: http://www.mdgx.com/7.php Also available as plain text/ASCII file: http://www.mdgx.com/WINDOWS7.TXT   ALWAYS BACKUP ALL YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM DRIVES TO A SAFE LOCATION   BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO MAKE ANY SYSTEM CHANGES !   http://www.mdgx.com/secrets.htm#BKP   WARNING: Take EXTREME CAUTION when modifying your System/Startup settings! Faulty changes may result in crashes/lockups/permanent data loss, or might lead to having you REINSTALL your Operating System(s)! YOU are the ONLY one responsible for ANY changes YOU make! ALWAYS HAVE YOUR MOST RECENT SYSTEM BACKUP READY! NOTES: - These Tricks + Secrets have been tested on many computers, but with NO guarantee they should also work for you! - Some of these tips I stumbled upon while browsing the Internet or while helping others with WinDOwS problems, some were kindly sent in by concerned readers (all authors/contributors are acknowledged and reliable sources given proper credit), and some I discovered on my own. Enjoy the ride! - Contributed tips (clearly marked) posted here do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the author of these files. Please send me feedback online: http://www.mdgx.com/form.htm MUST HAVE from SOFTWARE.TXT (included): - INTERNET EXPLORER 4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11 ESSENTIAL FREE FIXES + UPDATES: http://www.mdgx.com/ietoy.htm - FREE Windows NT4/2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016 (NTx) Extras: http://www.mdgx.com/xptoy.htm - 1000+ Windows 9x/NT/2000/ME/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016 Power Toys [99.99% FREE(ware)]: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm WINDOWS7.TXT Contents: [New tweaks added at the TOP] Task Scheduler Tweaks Patch Windows 7 Customize BOOT Screens Desktop Wallpaper Tweaks + Free(ware) Tools Free(ware) 7/8/8.1 Aero Tools + Tweaks Free(ware) Windows 7 Replacement Apps + Tweaking Tools Disable/Enable User Account Control (UAC) Tweaks + Hacks Free(ware) BOOT Tools + Tweaks Windows Side-by-Side (WinSxS) Folder Free(ware) Burn/Copy/Write/Install CDs/DVDs/BDs Tools OEM + WAT Updates/(Hot)Fixes + Windows Update (WU) Application (IN)Compatibility Control Panel (CP) + Master Mega (a.k.a. "god") Mode Public Root DNS Servers Internet + Web Browsers Tweaks + Fixes XP -> 7 Easy Transfer Files + Settings Turn OFF/ON Windows Features Turn OFF/ON Windows Services Turn OFF Action Center + Notifications Logon + Password Tweaks Synchronize Time CMD, Commands, Environment + Console Paging (Swap) File Tweaks Windows Firewall (WF) Tweaks Chrom(ium), Firefox + IE Web Browsers Links, Guides + Tweaks Windows 7 @ Wikipedia Free(ware) + Portable Tools  Task Scheduler Tweaks * Windows 7: Run any BATch/script/program in Task Scheduler minimized and with custom icon: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-performance/make-windows-7-task-scheduler-run-a-batch-file/0573dc2e-4941-44a2-8304-264864e94f1a/ Windows 10: Run any BATch/script/program in Task Scheduler minimized and with custom icon: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-performance/make-windows-10-task-scheduler-run-a-batch-file/e00b2fb0-02ca-439f-b534-eb34541130a9/ Run applications/scripts minimized from Task Scheduler: http://forums.anandtech.com/threads/want-to-run-applications-minimized-at-log-in-from-task-scheduler.224581/ 1. Create (if not present) C:\SCRIPTS folder (example) from a DOS console (command prompt): C: CD\ MD SCRIPTS 2. Use Notepad to create C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.VBS VBScript file (example): -----Begin cut & paste here----- Dim WshShell:Set WshShell=CreateObject("WScript.Shell") WshShell.Run chr(34)&"C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.CMD"&Chr(34),0 Set WshShell=Nothing ------End cut & paste here------ 3. Use Notepad to create C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.CMD BATch file (example): -----Begin cut & paste here----- @ECHO OFF IF NOT "%OS%"=="Windows_NT" GOTO END COLOR 3B ECHO. ECHO.  ECHO.  Deleting $Recycle.BIN folders from all connected drives/partitions/volumes...  ECHO.  ECHO. C: CD\ FOR %%i IN (C: D: E: F: G: H: I: J: K: L: M: N: O: P: Q: R: S: T: U: V: W: X: Y: Z:) DO IF EXIST "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" %windir%\SYSTEM32\TAKEOWN.EXE /f "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" /r /d y >NUL FOR %%i IN (C: D: E: F: G: H: I: J: K: L: M: N: O: P: Q: R: S: T: U: V: W: X: Y: Z:) DO IF EXIST "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" %windir%\SYSTEM32\ICACLS.EXE "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" /grant:r Administrators:F /t /c /q >NUL :: FOR %%i IN (C: D: E: F: G: H: I: J: K: L: M: N: O: P: Q: R: S: T: U: V: W: X: Y: Z:) DO IF EXIST "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" RD /Q /S "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" >NUL 2>&1 FOR %%i IN (C: D: E: F: G: H: I: J: K: L: M: N: O: P: Q: R: S: T: U: V: W: X: Y: Z:) DO IF EXIST "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" %windir%\SYSTEM32\RUNDLL32.EXE %windir%\SYSTEM32\ADVPACK.DLL,DelNodeRunDLL32 "%%i\$RECYCLE.BIN" >NUL 2>&1 :END EXIT ------End cut & paste here------ 4. Add C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.VBS (example) to your custom Task Scheduler script -> run: MMC.EXE /S taskschd.msc 5. Create a new Task -> Action tab -> highlight your task line -> click Edit... button -> Program/script box -> type (example): WSCRIPT.EXE -> Add arguments box -> type (example): /B /NoLogo C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.VBS 6. Customize and save your task to run whenever and however often you wish. 7. Optionally you can automate Task Scheduler to run C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.VBS every 30 minutes (example) from a DOS console command line: ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\SCHTASKS.EXE /Create /TN "Delete_$Recycle.B1N_folders" /TR "WSCRIPT.EXE /B /NoLogo C:\SCRIPTS\DEL_RECYCL_B1N.VBS" /RU SYSTEM /RL HIGHEST /SC MINUTE /MO 30 /F ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\SCHTASKS.EXE /Change /TN "Delete_$Recycle.B1N_folders" /RI 30 /RL HIGHEST /ENABLE * Create scheduled task to be triggered by Windows service event using XML: http://www.superuser.com/questions/502160/ http://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/askds/2011/09/26/advanced-xml-filtering-in-the-windows-event-viewer/ http://social.technet.microsoft.com/forums/windows/bae1e2c4-c60a-4f90-87b9-7b33e8d9660e/ http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/aa385231.aspx http://social.technet.microsoft.com/forums/office/fac16f3c-d088-4d66-83d8-7139261dea83/ Run... -> taskschd.msc -> Create Task... -> Trigger tab -> On an event -> Custom -> New Event Filter -> XML tab -> Edit query manually -> Yes -> cut & paste (example): Actions tab -> Start a program -> Program/script (example): %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE Add argument (optional) (example): STOP sppsvc OK -> OK.  Patch Windows 7 * ReadyFor4GB Patch for Windows Vista/7/7 SP1 32-bit allows RAM usage up to 128 GB: - Chinese: http://zh-deepxw.blogspot.com/2009/04/readyfor4gb.html - English: http://www.arstechnica.com/civis/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=49358 * RAMPatch for Windows Vista/7/7 SP1 32-bit allows RAM usage up to 128 GB: http://www.bcastell.com/tech-articles/enabling-more-than-4-gb-of-ram-under-windows-7-32-bit/ File: http://www.bcastell.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/win7-7600-4gb-patch.rar PASSWORD: nowarranty * 4GB Patch for 32-bit EXEcutables (.exe) to use up to 4 GB of virtual RAM on Windows NTx 64-bit OSes: http://www.ntcore.com/4gb_patch.php File: http://www.ntcore.com/files/4gb_patch.zip * Windows 7 Patches: TCP/IP Connection Limit (TCPIP.SYS), Theme (UXTHEME.DLL), Terminal Server (TERMSRV.DLL) + Desktop Watermark (USER32.DLL + USER32.DLL.mui): http://deepxw.blogspot.com/ Windows 7 Desktop Watermark (USER32.DLL + USER32.DLL.mui) Patch: http://deepxw.blogspot.com/2008/12/remove-watermark-v03-build-20081210.html Desktop Watermark Patch Guide: http://www.askvg.com/how-to-remove-windows-7-rc-watermark-build-info-from-desktop/ * Windows XP/Vista/7 TCPIP.SYS Limited Connections Patch: http://www.raymond.cc/blog/tcp-z-is-the-best-tcpip-half-open-connection-limited-patcher/ Patch %windir%\System32\drivers\TCPIP.SYS -> reboot -> run these 3 commands to turn ON TCP/IP autotuning + turn OFF scaling heuristics: %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface tcp set global autotuning=normal %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface tcp set heuristics disabled %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface tcp set global rss=enabled chimney=enabled rsc=enabled nonsackrttresiliency=enabled More info: http://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/networking/2016/08/11/an-update-on-windows-tcp-autotuninglevel/ http://www.techjourney.net/disable-tcp-receive-window-auto-tuning-fix-slow-internet-cannot-load-web-page-cannot-download-email/ * Windows 7 Theme Source Patcher (7TSP): http://www.xptsp.com/fixit/7tsp.php 7TSP Portable: http://users.xptsp.com/fixit/programs/7tsp_GUI_v0.4_B(2015).exe 7TSP Installer: http://users.xptsp.com/fixit/programs/7tsp_GUI_v0.4_B(2015)_Installer.exe 7TSP Icon Packs: http://www.creativx.net/forums/7tsp-iconpacks/ 7TSP requires Resource Hacker: http://www.angusj.com/resourcehacker/ File: http://www.angusj.com/resourcehacker/resource_hacker.zip * ReadyDriver Plus 1.2: http://web.archive.org/web/20131029095655/http://www.citadelindustries.net/rdp.php File: http://web.archive.org/web/20131029095655/http://data.citadelindustries.net/setupreadydriverplus.exe * Driver Signature Enforcement Overrider (DSEO): http://www.ngohq.com/?page=dseo File: http://files.ngohq.com/ngo/dseo/dseo13b.exe * Windows 7 Boot Updater changes animated boot logo: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/ Guide: http://www.intowindows.com/windows-7-boot-animation-updater-change-windows-7-boot-screen/  Customize BOOT Screens * Customize Windows 7 Boot Screen Guides: http://www.techdows.com/2011/06/get-windows-8-betta-fish-boot-screen-for-windows-7.html http://www.techfeb.com/customize-windows-7-boot-screen/ http://www.askvg.com/download-windows-8-rtm-boot-screen-windows-7/ http://www.door2windows.com/how-to-change-windows-7-boot-screen-animation/ Win7BootUpdater = MUST USE IT !!!: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/ File: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/downloads/ http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/downloads/Win7BootUpdater2.exe Extras: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/extras/ Boot Screens: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/bootskins/ http://www.deskmodder.de/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=220&t=13363 Custom Animations: http://medi-dadu.deviantart.com/art/Win-Boot-Screen-16-9-277342889 Navi OS from SE Lain: http://detechtive.deviantart.com/art/Win-7-boot-animation-Navi-OS-from-SE-Lain-280887190 Holographic: http://ultimatedesktops.deviantart.com/art/Holographic-Boot-Skin-for-Windows-7-359440527 http://creativ-xtreme.deviantart.com/art/Holographic-Boot-Skin-for-Windows-7-359440527 Abstract: http://detechtive.deviantart.com/art/Abstract-Bootscreen-w-resolution-fix-and-a-bonus-393047765 The Hatchling v2: http://faziri.deviantart.com/art/The-Hatchling-v2-340304259 Blaupunkt v2: http://tchiro.deviantart.com/art/Blau-punkt-v2-BootScreen-344602849 Pulse Blue: http://tchiro.deviantart.com/art/Pulse-blue-Windows-7-BootScreen-321869645 Pulse Green: http://tchiro.deviantart.com/art/Pulse-Windows-7-BootScreen-321814750 Molecule 16:9: http://judian.deviantart.com/art/Molucule-Boot-Screen-16-9-312105328 L: http://luttik.deviantart.com/art/L-bootloader-297223007 Earth 16:9: http://medi-dadu.deviantart.com/art/Win-Boot-Screen-16-9-294257700 Gears: http://creativ-xtreme.deviantart.com/art/gears-BootScreen-262299074 Stargate Logo: http://fallenangelofdeath63.deviantart.com/art/Stargate-Boot-Theme-290423425 STARGATE: http://zangio.deviantart.com/art/Win7-Boot-Animation-STARGATE-189992814 Starfleet Logo: http://deskmodder.deviantart.com/art/Starfleetlogo-by-rufus721-269639178 Blue Plasma: http://deskmodder.deviantart.com/art/BluePlasma-by-AxP-261661276 Nerd: http://sachse.deviantart.com/art/Nerd-Bootscreen-260310482 DoTa Puck: http://seva-tmplr.deviantart.com/art/WIN7-Boot-DoTa-Puck-196485118 Orb: http://zangio.deviantart.com/art/Win7-Boot-Animation-Orb-188321689 Windows 8 ALPHA Fish: http://misaki2009.deviantart.com/art/Windows-8-Bootscreen-quot-ALPHA-quot-214596752 Boot Screens: http://creativ-xtreme.deviantart.com/gallery/36418593 http://kidofoundation.deviantart.com/gallery/ http://korruptninja.deviantart.com/gallery/ http://www.windows7bootscreens.com/bootscreen-22-orb/  Desktop Wallpaper Tweaks + Free(ware) Tools * Click "Next Wallpaper" from Desktop right-click shell context menu: http://www.techfeb.com/change-your-windows-wallpaper-with-next-wallpaper-from-windows-right-click-menu/ http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/161638-next-desktop-background-add-remove-desktop-context-menu.html http://www.windowsvalley.com/remove-next-desktop-background-from-desktop-context-menu-of-windows-7/ NOTE: This requires your wallpaper (Desktop background) settings to cycle through a folder containing at least 2 images. 1. Use Notepad to create Next_Wallpaper.vbs VBScript file (example): -----Begin cut & paste here----- Dim WshShell:Set WshShell=WScript.CreateObject("WScript.Shell") WshShell.SendKeys("^ ") WshShell.SendKeys("+{F10}") WshShell.SendKeys("n") ------End cut & paste here------ 2. Run Next_Wallpaper.vbs (example): WSCRIPT.EXE /B /NoLogo Next_Wallpaper.vbs 3. Right-click on an empty Desktop spot -> click "Next desktop background". 4. Make this permanent: use Notepad to create Next_Wallpaper.reg Registry file (example): -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\DesktopBackground\shell\change_wallpaper] @="Change Wallpaper" "Position"="Bottom" "MUIVerb"="&Change Wallpaper" "Icon"="DESK.CPL,0" "Extended"=- "NoWorkingDirectory"="" "SuppressionPolicy"=dword:0 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\DesktopBackground\shell\change_wallpaper\command] @="RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL DESK.CPL,,@desktop" "IsolatedCommand"=- ; ------End cut & paste here------ 5. Right-click on Next_Wallpaper.reg -> "Run as Administrator" -> answer Yes/OK to all prompts to register its information into your Registry. 6. From now on you can right-click on an empty Desktop spot -> click "Change Wallpaper". * Any Wallpaper: http://www.anyutils.com/anywall.php File: http://www.anyutils.com/download/anywall.exe Requires Microsoft .Net Framework Redistributable (NFR) 2.0 (free): http://www.mdgx.com/add.htm#NFR Right-click Taskbar Icon -> Restore main window -> Options -> Choose a wallpaper position: Autofit ! Settings: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\AnyUtils\AnyWall\settings.xml * Logon Background Changer (W7LBC): http://www.julien-manici.com/windows_7_logon_background_changer/ File: http://jmanici.blob.core.windows.net/download/Win7LogonBackgroundChanger_1_5_2.zip * Logon Changer: http://www.tweaks.com/software/tweakslogon/ File: http://www.tweaks.com/software/tweakslogon/download/tweakslogon.zip * Logon Screen Rotator (LSR): http://www.lukepaynesoftware.com/lsrotator/ File: http://www.lukepaynesoftware.com/downloads/lsr_4.4 LSR Guide: http://www.door2windows.com/how-to-automatically-change-your-logon-screen-background-after-an-interval-of-time-in-windows-7/ * Wallpaper Slideshow LT: http://www.gphotoshow.com/wallpaperss.htm File: http://www.gphotoshow.com/files/WallpaperSSLT.exe * Aero Wallpaper Changer: http://www.winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.10 File: http://www.winaero.com/download.php?view.9 * Oceanis: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/47294-desktop-background-wallpaper-change-windows-7-starter.html File: http://dl2.sevenforums.com/dl/Oceanis_Change_Background_W7.zip * Windows Wallpaper Changer: http://sourceforge.net/projects/winwallchanger/ File: http://sourceforge.net/projects/winwallchanger/files/ * List of Wallpaper Changers: http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/best-free-wallpaper-changer.htm  Free(ware) 7/8/8.1 Aero Tools + Tweaks * TransparentMenu 1.20 32-bit + 64-bit: http://www.moo0.com/software/TransparentMenu/ File: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhancements/Other-Desktop-Enhancements/Moo0-TransparentMenu.shtml "%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\Moo0 Transparent Menu 1.20.lnk" shortcut command line: TransparentMenu.exe -startup * Window Menu Plus 1.20 (includes stripped-down TransparentMenu) right-click shell context menu 32-bit + 64-bit: http://www.moo0.com/software/WindowMenuPlus/ File: http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/OS-Enhancements/Moo0-WindowMenuPlus.shtml * Aero Adjuster: http://samusaranfreak.deviantart.com/art/Aero-Adjuster-261383189 File: http://www.deviantart.com/download/261383189/aero_adjuster_by_samusaranfreak-d4bmck5.zip * WinAeroTweaker for Windows 7/8/8.1/10: http://www.winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.1836 http://www.winaero.com/download.php?view.1796 File: http://www.winaero.com/request.php?1796 * Switcher: http://www.insentient.net/ File: http://www.insentient.net/Files/Projects/Switcher/Switcher-2.0.0.2705.zip * Aura Auto Colorization tool: http://aura.codeplex.com/ http://www.askvg.com/aura-get-windows-8-aero-auto-colorization-feature-in-windows-vista-and-7/ http://www.door2windows.com/get-windows-8-auto-colorization-feature-in-windows-7vista-3/ File: http://aura.codeplex.com/downloads/get/227648 http://angelwzr.deviantart.com/art/Aura-Beta-3-203960157 http://www.deviantart.com/download/203960157/aura_beta_2_by_angelwzr-d3dfknx.zip * 7+ Taskbar Tweaker for Windows 7/8/8.1/10 [select Portable at install time!]: http://www.rammichael.com/7-taskbar-tweaker/ File: http://www.rammichael.com/downloads/7tt_setup.exe * Advanced Appearance Settings HTA for Windows 8/8.1 works with Windows 7: http://www.intowindows.com/advanced-appearance-settings-for-windows-8-1/ http://www.msfn.org/board/topic/163836-advanced-appearance-settings-for-windows-8/#entry1049765 File: http://www.msfn.org/board/applications/core/interface/file/attachment.php?id=37314 * UxStyle for Windows 7/8/8.1/10: http://www.uxstyle.com/ File Windows 10: http://github.com/riverar/uxstyle/releases/download/0.2.4.2/UxStyle_0242_x86_x64_preview.exe File Windows 8/8.1: http://www.uxstyle.com/builds/UxStyle_sep23_x86_x64_possibly_bugged.zip File Windows 7: http://www.uxstyle.com/builds/UxStyle_Core_jul13_bits.zip Aero Theme for Windows 8/8.1: http://simplexdesignsart.deviantart.com/art/Windows-Aero-536877982/ http://web.archive.org/web/20130402051457/http://xxinightxx.deviantart.com/art/Windows-7-Vs-REV-D-350491112/ File: http://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=0B883uGPmNY72Sjk3dy1MTzBGVEE http://web.archive.org/web/20130402051457/http://www.deviantart.com/download/350491112/windows_7_vs_rev_d_by_xxinightxx-d5so8o8.zip * WinAeroGlass for Windows 8/8.1: http://www.winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.204 http://www.winaero.com/download.php?view.49 File: http://www.winaero.com/request.php?49 * AeroRainbow for Windows 7/8/8.1: http://www.winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.13 http://www.winaero.com/download.php?view.11 File: http://www.winaero.com/request.php?11  Free(ware) Windows 7 Replacement Apps + Tweaking Tools * Vista Calculator (CALC.EXE): http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-calculator-working-in-windows-vista/ http://www.askvg.com/get-windows-7-like-calculator-in-windows-xp/ http://grdcityboy.deviantart.com/art/Seven-Calculator-102484514 http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Windows-7-Calculator-Review-106024.shtml http://www.7tutorials.com/windows-calculator-tool-geek-you/ * AeroCalc (Glass Theme): http://www.door2windows.com/how-to-get-glass-calculator-in-windows-7vista/ * Notepad (Glass Theme): http://www.door2windows.com/how-to-get-glass-notepad-in-windows-7vista/ Ribbon Notepad: http://www.door2windows.com/get-notepad-with-ribbon-user-interface-in-windows-7vista/ * Command Prompt (Glass Theme): http://www.door2windows.com/how-to-get-glass-command-prompt-in-windows-7vista/ * Ribbon Image Viewer: http://www.door2windows.com/get-ribbon-user-interface-ui-image-viewer-in-windows-7vistaxp/ * Bubbles, Mystify, Ribbons, Lines + Aurora Screen Savers: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhancements/Screensavers/Vista-Screensaver-Ported-to-XP.shtml Screen Savers Guides: http://www.door2windows.com/tweak-bubbles-mystify-ribbons-lines-aurora-screensavers/ http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/15088/customize-the-default-screensavers-in-windows-7-and-vista/ http://www.winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.9 http://www.tweaks.com/windows/39129/the-ultimate-windows-screensaver-tweaking-guide/ * XP Pipes (SSPIPES.SCR) Screen Saver: http://www.bearblain.com/Downloads/sspipes.zip http://www.mdgx.com/3dpipes.jpg * 7Smoker Pro: http://www.xp-smoker.com/7smokerpro.html File: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/7smoker_pro.html  Disable/Enable User Account Control (UAC) * Temporary fix: in Windows Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016 you must right-click each file/executable/program/installer/command prompt (DOS console)/BATch file/script/screen saver/etc and select "Run as Administrator" in order to execute it properly without limitations or restrictions. Otherwise a nagging dialog box will pop up and you will be prompted to Run/Open/Save/etc them, or you won't be allowed to execute them every time you (double-)click on them, and you will notice most of them will not run properly, or exhibit restrictions, limitations or inappropriate behavior. ;-( * Permanent fix: disable User Account Control (UAC): - Windows 10/2016: http://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/3577-user-account-control-uac-change-settings-windows-10-a.html - Windows 8/2012/8.1/2012 R2: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/5509-user-account-control-uac-change-settings-windows-8-a.html - Windows 7/7 SP1/2008 R2: http://www.petri.co.il/disable-uac-in-windows-7.htm - Windows Vista/2008: http://www.petri.co.il/disable_uac_in_windows_vista.htm * UAC_OFF.REG Registry file disables all UAC annoyances: -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 ; *MUST* REBOOT AFTER TURNING OFF UAC ! ; Disable User Account Control file virtualization (LUAfv) Service: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\luafv] "Start"=dword:4 ; Disable ALL UAC settings: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System] "ConsentPromptBehaviorAdmin"=dword:0 "ConsentPromptBehaviorUser"=dword:1 "DisableStatusMessages"=dword:0 "DontDisplayLastUserName"=dword:0 "EnableInstallerDetection"=dword:0 "EnableLUA"=dword:0 "EnableSecureUIAPaths"=dword:0 "EnableUIADesktopToggle"=dword:1 "EnableVirtualization"=dword:1 "FilterAdministratorToken"=dword:0 "NoInternetOpenWith"=dword:1 "PromptOnSecureDesktop"=dword:0 "SCForceOption"=dword:0 "SynchronousMachineGroupPolicy"=dword:0 "SynchronousUserGroupPolicy"=dword:0 "ValidateAdminCodeSignatures"=dword:0 "VerboseStatus"=dword:0 ; ------End cut & paste here------ Open Notepad or similar/better free(ware) plain text/ASCII editor: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT and save Registry file above as UAC_OFF.REG . Right-click on UAC_OFF.REG -> "Run as Administrator" -> answer Yes/OK to all prompts to register its information into your Registry. Perform same steps for UAC_OFF.BAT BATch file, which also disables UAC: -----Begin cut & paste here----- @ECHO OFF IF NOT "%OS%"=="Windows_NT" GOTO END :: *MUST* REBOOT AFTER TURNING OFF UAC ! :: Disable User Account Control file virtualization (LUAfv) Service: ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\NET.EXE STOP luafv %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE CONFIG luafv START= disabled :: Disable UAC: %windir%\SYSTEM32\REG.EXE ADD "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System" /v EnableLUA /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f :END EXIT ------End cut & paste here------ Reboot. * UAC_ON.REG Registry file enables all UAC annoyances: -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 ; *MUST* REBOOT AFTER TURNING OFF UAC ! ; Enable User Account Control file virtualization (LUAfv) Service: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\luafv] "Start"=dword:2 ; Enable ALL UAC settings: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System] "ConsentPromptBehaviorAdmin"=dword:2 ; "ConsentPromptBehaviorUser"=dword:3 "ConsentPromptBehaviorUser"=dword:0 "DisableStatusMessages"=dword:1 "DontDisplayLastUserName"=dword:1 "EnableInstallerDetection"=dword:1 "EnableLUA"=dword:1 "EnableSecureUIAPaths"=dword:1 "EnableUIADesktopToggle"=dword:0 "EnableVirtualization"=dword:0 "FilterAdministratorToken"=dword:1 "NoInternetOpenWith"=dword:0 "PromptOnSecureDesktop"=dword:1 "SCForceOption"=dword:1 "SynchronousMachineGroupPolicy"=dword:1 "SynchronousUserGroupPolicy"=dword:1 "ValidateAdminCodeSignatures"=dword:1 "VerboseStatus"=dword:1 ; ------End cut & paste here------ Open Notepad or similar/better free(ware) plain text/ASCII editor: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT and save Registry file above as UAC_ON.REG . Right-click on UAC_ON.REG -> "Run as Administrator" -> answer Yes/OK to all prompts to register its information into your Registry. Perform same steps for UAC_ON.BAT BATch file, which also enables UAC: -----Begin cut & paste here----- @ECHO OFF IF NOT "%OS%"=="Windows_NT" GOTO END :: *MUST* REBOOT AFTER TURNING OFF UAC ! :: Enable User Account Control file virtualization (LUAfv) Service: ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\NET.EXE START luafv %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE CONFIG luafv START= auto :: Enable UAC: %windir%\SYSTEM32\REG.EXE ADD "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System" /v EnableLUA /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f :END EXIT ------End cut & paste here------ Reboot. * UAC and Application Run Levels: http://www.slickit.ca/2009/05/uac-and-application-run-levels.html * How to disable UAC Prompt for certain applications: http://web.archive.org/web/20080204172644/http://support.microsoft.com/help/946932 * Selectively disable UAC for trusted Vista/newer applications: http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/selectively-disable-uac-for-your-trusted-vista-applications/635 * Change User Account Control (UAC) settings: - How to Disable Windows User Access Control (UAC): http://www.keithholloway.net/blog/how-to-disable-windows-user-access-control-uac/ - Registry Tweaks to Customize User Account Control (UAC) Options in Windows Vista and Later: http://www.askvg.com/how-to-tweak-user-account-control-uac-options-in-windows-vista-home-basic-home-premium/ - MS TechNet: UAC Group Policy Settings and Registry Key Settings: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/dd835564.aspx - MSDN: FilterAdministratorToken Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232760.aspx - MSDN: ConsentPromptBehaviorAdmin Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232761.aspx - MSDN: ConsentPromptBehaviorUser Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232762.aspx - MSDN: EnableInstallerDetection Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232763.aspx - MSDN: ValidateAdminCodeSignatures Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232764.aspx - MSDN: EnableLUA Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232765.aspx - MSDN: PromptOnSecureDesktop Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232766.aspx - MSDN: EnableVirtualization Registry REG_DWORD value: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232767.aspx - MSKB: PromptOnSecureDesktop Registry Value: http://support.microsoft.com/help/975788/ - How to configure Windows UAC prompt behavior for admins and users: http://www.ghacks.net/2013/06/20/how-to-configure-windows-uac-prompt-behavior-for-admins-and-users/ - Changing How UAC Works (The Hard Way): http://www.sourcedaddy.com/windows-7/changing-how-uac-works-the-hard-way.html - Windows 7: User Account Control (UAC) Change Notification Settings: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/299-user-account-control-uac-change-notification-settings.html - MSKB: Adjust User Account Control Settings in Windows 7/8/8.1: http://support.microsoft.com/help/975787/ * Free(ware) UAC tools: - UAC Pass: http://sites.google.com/site/freeavvarea/UACPass-en/ File: http://sites.google.com/site/freeavvarea/files/uacpass1.7a.zip - UAC Tweak: http://www.askvg.com/uac-tweak-a-small-cute-utility-to-tweak-uac-user-account-control-in-windows-vista/ File: http://media.askvg.com/files/uac-tweak.zip - TweakUAC: http://www.winability.com/tweak-uac/ File: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/tweakuac.html - Disable UAC: http://www.disableuac.com/ File: http://www.disableuac.com/disableuac_setup.exe * Run always as Administrator: http://www.superuser.com/questions/204781/ A. Add User to Administrators Group + remove User from Users Group: 1. Log in as Administrator -> WinKey + R -> Run... -> type -> hit Enter: CONTROL userpasswords2 2. Your Account Name -> Properties -> Group Membership tab -> Administrators -> OK -> OK. B. Disable Approval Mode: http://www.askvg.com/how-to-tweak-user-account-control-uac-options-in-windows-vista-home-basic-home-premium/ http://www.tweakhound.com/vista/tweakguide/page_5.htm http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc232771.aspx 1. Log in as Administrator -> WinKey + R -> Run... -> type -> hit Enter: SECPOL.MSC 2. Local Polices -> Security Options. 3. User Account Control (UAC): Switch to secure desktop when prompting for elevation -> Disable -> OK. 4. *MUST* reboot for changes to take effect!  Tweaks + Hacks * Windows 7 Slow/Stuck "Checking for Updates" Fix: http://www.reddit.com/r/windows/comments/4tx4s9/ * Speed Up Windows Shutdown Process: http://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/how-to-speed-up-windows-shutdown-process/ * Control How Long Windows Waits Before Killing Apps at Shutdown: http://www.howtogeek.com/282062/control-how-long-windows-waits-before-killing-apps-at-shutdown/ * Delete Files Protected by TrustedInstaller: http://www.helpdeskgeek.com/windows-7/windows-7-how-to-delete-files-protected-by-trustedinstaller/ * TrustedInstaller Permission and CPU Fix: http://howtoremove.guide/trustedinstaller-permission-cpu-fix-win7-win10/ * The Art of Becoming TrustedInstaller: http://tyranidslair.blogspot.com/2017/08/the-art-of-becoming-trustedinstaller.html * Registry keys affected by WOW64 64-bit (x64): http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/aa384253.aspx * Specific Registry keys for 64-bit (x64) Windows OSes: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Classes HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Wow6432Node HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Wow6432Node\AppId HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\AppId HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Wow6432Node\PROTOCOLS HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\PROTOCOLS HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Wow6432Node\Typelib HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Typelib More info: http://www.mdgx.com/reg.htm#RTS * Use Large System .FON/.TTF/.OTF Size = DPI Scaling 100%: http://www.superuser.com/questions/163430/1131693#1131693 Customize Windows 7 Font Face/Size + Taskbar Icons Size: http://www.wikihow.com/Customize-the-Size-of-the-Windows-7-Taskbar-Icons/ http://blogs.msdn.microsoft.com/developingfordynamicsgp/2009/12/01/more-on-windows-7-bitmap-fonts-and-dpi-settings/ Change Default System Fonts: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-desktop/how-to-change-system-default-font-in-all-parts/dfce15db-7337-420a-a42e-517521a8502e/ Change Dialog Boxes + Buttons Fonts: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1175-fonts-change.html -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Fonts] "Courier 10,12,15"="COURF.FON" "MS Serif 8,10,12,14,18,24"="SERIFF.FON" "MS Sans Serif 8,10,12,14,18,24"="SSERIFF.FON" "Small Fonts"="SMALLF.FON" "Small Fonts (120)"="SMALLF.FON" ; ------End cut & paste here------ * MS Sans Serif FON: 125% DPI font file | 100% DPI font file *************************************** SSERIFF.FON | SSERIFE.FON SSERIFFE.FON | SSERIFEE.FON SSERIFFG.FON | SSERIFEG.FON SSERIFFR.FON | SSERIFER.FON SSERIFFT.FON | SSERIFET.FON SSEF1255.FON | SSEE1255.FON SSEF1256.FON | SSEE1256.FON SSEF1257.FON | SSEE1257.FON SSEF874.FON | SSEE874.FON * MS Serif FON: 125% DPI font file | 100% DPI font file *************************************** SERIFF.FON | SERIFE.FON SERIFFE.FON | SERIFEE.FON SERIFFG.FON | SERIFEG.FON SERIFFR.FON | SERIFER.FON SERIFFT.FON | SERIFET.FON SERF1255.FON | SERE1255.FON SERF1256.FON | SERE1256.FON SERF1257.FON | SERE1257.FON * Courier FON: 125% DPI font file | 100% DPI font file *************************************** COURF.FON | COURE.FON COURFE.FON | COUREE.FON COURFG.FON | COUREG.FON COURFR.FON | COURER.FON COURFT.FON | COURET.FON COUF1255.FON | COUE1255.FON COUF1256.FON | COUE1256.FON COUF1257.FON | COUE1257.FON * Windows XP/2003/2008/7/8/2012 MDL Projects and Applications: http://forums.mydigitallife.info/forums/34-MDL-Projects-and-Applications * 175 Windows 7 Tweaks, Tips + How-tos: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/5391/ * 94 Windows 7 tips, tricks + secrets: http://www.techradar.com/us/news/computing-components/643861/ * Windows 7 Right-click Menu Tips, Tricks + Tutorials: http://www.thecustomizewindows.com/2011/08/windows-7-right-click-menu-tipstricks-and-tutorials-index/ * 20 Best Windows 7 Start Menu and Taskbar Tips + Tricks: http://www.howtogeek.com/77614/best-windows-7-start-menu-and-taskbar-tips-and-tricks/ * System Tweaking Freeware: http://www.snapfiles.com/freeware/system/fwsystweak.html * Change Default System Font [Registry hack]: http://www.edy.es/dev/docs/windows-tricks/ * Create Scheduled Task to Run @ Boot Time: http://www.myboogpages.com/2009/02/how-to-create-a-scheduled-task-that-runs-at-boot-time.html * Run BATch File as Service: http://www.serverfault.com/questions/226271/running-a-batch-file-as-a-system-service-in-windows-server-2003 * Pin Any File to Windows 7 Taskbar: http://www.howtogeek.com/66670/from-the-tips-box-pin-any-file-to-the-taskbar/ * Pin to Taskbar - Add or Remove from Context Menu in Windows 7: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/196235-pin-taskbar-add-remove-context-menu-windows-7-a.html * Pin an External Drive to Windows 7 Taskbar: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/27903/how-to-pin-an-external-drive-to-the-windows-7-taskbar/ * Windows 7 Workaround Removes Shortcut Arrow (+ adds Transparency) + Pins to Taskbar/Start Menu: http://www.mydigitallife.info/workaround-to-remove-shortcut-arrow-make-transparent-in-windows-7-yet-can-pin-to-taskbar-or-start-menu/ * Pin Special Windows Items to Taskbar: http://www.7tutorials.com/how-pin-special-windows-shortcuts-taskbar * Windows 7 File Association Fixes: http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/file-asso-fixes-for-windows-7/ http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/unassociate-file-types-windows-7-vista/ http://www.techsupportall.com/file-association-fixes/ * Files/Folders Access Denied + other (similar) Errors: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2623670/ http://www.thewindowsclub.com/access-is-denied-software-installation-windows/ http://www.stackoverflow.com/questions/8619541/ http://smallbusiness.chron.com/change-permissions-system32-drivers-50434.html http://www.blogsdna.com/2159/how-to-take-ownership-grant-permissions-to-access-files-folder-in-windows-7.htm * Remove Favorites/Libraries/Homegroup/My Folder: http://www.sevenforums.com/customization/23122-remove-favorites-libraries-homegroup-my-folder-2.html * Group Policy Administrative Templates Catalog: http://getadmx.com/ * Add + Customize Fonts in Command Prompt (DOS Console): http://smallvoid.com/article/winnt-cmd-add-font.html http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/windows-and-office/quick-tip-add-fonts-to-the-command-prompt/ http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/stupid-geek-tricks-enable-more-fonts-for-the-windows-command-prompt/ http://www.wikihow.com/Customize-the-Font-in-Windows-Command-Prompt/ * .MSI/.MSP/.MSU Installer (%windir%\SYSTEM32\MSIEXEC.EXE) Command Line Options: http://docs.microsoft.com/windows/desktop/msi/command-line-options/ http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/aa367988.aspx http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/aa372024.aspx http://helpnet.installshield.com/installshield21helplib/helplibrary/IHelpCmdLineMSI.htm http://www.silentinstall.org/msiexec/ * Disable Aero Snap in Windows 7/8/8.1/10: http://www.helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/disable-snap-assist-in-windows-7-8-10/ * Built-in Windows Commands: http://www.ccm.net/faq/403-command-prompts-for-windows * Easy Windows 7 Tweaks + Tips: http://www.theeldergeek.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=35719 * More Windows 7 Tips: http://www.theeldergeek.com/forum/index.php?showforum=55 * List of DOS Console Commands: http://www.c3scripts.com/tutorials/msdos/commands.html http://www.ss64.com/nt/ * LDID/DIRID values in Windows NTx OSes: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/ff553598.aspx * Tweaks + Hacks: http://www.isoftspot.com/ http://www.thewindowsclub.com/ http://www.winaero.com/ http://www.mydigitallife.info/ http://www.sevenforums.com/ http://www.door2windows.com/download/ http://www.howtogeek.com/ http://www.tweaks.com/windows-7/ http://www.tweaks.com/ http://www.ghacks.net/category/windows/ http://www.blogsdna.com/ http://www.techfeb.com/category/windows-7/ http://www.instantfundas.com/search/label/Windows%207 http://www.webtlk.com/list-of-how-to-windows-7/ http://www.techdows.com/ * Transformation Packs + Themes: http://winempyrean.net/category/shell-styles/ http://winempyrean.net/jarvis/ http://www.deviantart.com/#/art/Jarvis-Windows-7-Transformation-Pack-397222303 * Tutorials: http://sites.google.com/a/rmprepusb.com/www/tutorials/ http://www.7tutorials.com/ http://unlockforus.blogspot.com/2008/11/tutorials.html http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/ http://sector-seven.net/ http://www.technixupdate.com/tag/windows-7/ * MSKB: http://support.microsoft.com/products/windows?os=windows-7 http://support.microsoft.com/help/10164/ * Windows 7 system requirements: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/products/system-requirements/  Free(ware) BOOT Tools + Tweaks * Free(ware) Windows Boot Managers: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#BOO * BOOTCFG + BOOT.INI: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#BINI * Free(ware) DOS Boot Managers: http://www.mdgx.com/dos.htm#BTM * BellaVista 32-bit + 64-bit BOOT.INI, Boot Configuration Data (BCD) + BCDEdit.exe interface (GUI) tweaking tool: http://www.zezula.net/en/fstools/bellavista.html File: http://www.zezula.net/download/bellavista_en.zip * Visual BCD Editor (VBCDE) Boot Configuration Data (BCD) + BCDEdit.exe interface (GUI) tweaking tool: http://www.boyans.net/ VBCDE Download: http://www.boyans.net/DownloadVisualBCD.html File: http://www.boyans.net/VisualBcd/VisualBcd_0.9.3.1.msi VBCDE DOCument: http://www.boyans.net/VisualBCD_doc.htm VBCDE Guide: http://www.boyans.net/VBCD_HowTo.html * Dual-Boot Repair (DBR) tool: http://www.boyans.net/dual-boot-repair-windows-10.html File: http://www.boyans.net/dbr/dbr-1.3.0.0.zip * EasyBCD Community Edition 32-bit Boot Configuration Data (BCD), BCDEdit.exe + BOOT.INI interface (GUI) tweaking tool: http://www.neosmart.net/EasyBCD/ File: http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/OS-Enhancements/EasyBCD.shtml EasyBCD Online DOCumentation: http://www.neosmart.net/wiki/easybcd/ * MBRFix 32-bit + 64-bit command line MBR/EMBR create/backup/restore/repair tool: http://www.sysint.no/mbrfix/ File: http://www.sysint.no/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/mbrfix.zip http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/Hard-Disk-Utils/MBRFix.shtml * Switch Windows 7 Boot Disk from D: to C: using BCDBOOT.EXE: http://www.hanselman.com/blog/SwitchingMyWindows7BootDiskFromDToCWithBCDBootRatherThanBCDEdit.aspx http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/windows/en-US/1a909e7c-6ffe-48df-a179-6cba7256e836/ http://www.boyans.net/MoveWindows7BootFilesToAnotherDrive.html * Stop Check Disk (Chkdsk) from Running at Startup: http://www.top-password.com/blog/stop-check-disk-chkdsk-from-running-at-startup/ %windir%\SYSTEM32\CHKNTFS.EXE /X C: D: E: F: G: H: I: J: K: L: M: N: O: P: Q: R: S: T: U: V: W: X: Y: Z: Manually Clear or Set Dirty Bit on Windows Volume: http://www.top-password.com/blog/how-to-manually-clear-or-set-dirty-bit-on-windows-volume/ * Fsutil (FSUTIL.EXE): http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc753059.aspx Troubleshoot Disks and File Systems: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/bb457122.aspx Windows 7 FSUTIL.EXE Update improves compatibility with Advanced Format Disks: http://support.microsoft.com/help/982018/ FSUTIL.EXE: http://www.ss64.com/nt/fsutil.html File System Utility - Fsutil.exe: http://www.commandwindows.com/fsutil.htm FSUTIL behavior: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc785435.aspx FSUTIL quota: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc788136.aspx FSUTIL resource: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/ff621564.aspx FSUTIL usn: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc788042.aspx FSUTIL fsinfo: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc788080.aspx FSUTIL 8dot3name: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/ff621566.aspx FSUTIL dirty: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc788091.aspx FSUTIL file: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc788058.aspx Monitor Disk Space using FSUTIL: http://www.sqlservercentral.com/blogs/powersql-by-prashanth-jayaram/2016/09/27/sql-server-monitoring-disk-space-with-fsutil-command-line-utility/ Monitor File System using FSUTIL: http://tutorial.wmlcloud.com/windows_server/Windows-Server-2008-Server-Core---Monitoring-the-File-System-with-the-FSUtil-Command-(part-2)---FSInfo,-Hardlink,-ObjectID,-Quota---Repair.aspx Enable SSD TRIM = Turn ON DisableDeleteNotify -> 0 = ON | 1 = OFF : http://www.howtogeek.com/257196/how-to-check-if-trim-is-enabled-for-your-ssd-and-enable-it-if-it-isnt/ %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set DisableDeleteNotify 0 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set AllowExtChar 1 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set BugcheckOnCorrupt 0 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set DisableCompression 0 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set DisableEncryption 0 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set DisableLastAccess 0 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set EncryptPagingFile 1 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set MemoryUsage 2 %windir%\SYSTEM32\FSUTIL.EXE behavior set Disable8dot3 0 * BOOTCFG.EXE: Windows Recovery Console (WRC) command used to build or modify the BOOT.INI file in Windows 2000/XP/2003. Can be used to multi-boot with other operating systems (OSes), like Windows Vista/7/8/8.1, Linux, etc. BOOT.INI can be created/modified using a plain text/ASCII editor from within other OSes. Free(ware) Text Editors: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT Syntax: bootcfg /list /list = lists every entry in the boot list in the BOOT.INI file. bootcfg /scan /scan = scans all drives for Windows installations + displays the results. bootcfg /rebuild /rebuild = steps through the process of rebuilding the BOOT.INI file. bootcfg /default /default = sets the default boot entry in the BOOT.INI file. bootcfg /add /add = adds an entry manually in the BOOT.INI boot list. Examples: bootcfg /rebuild In this example the bootcfg command scans all drives for any Windows installations, displays the results, and steps through building the BOOT.INI file. NOTE: The bootcfg command is only available from within the Recovery Console in Windows 2000/XP/2003. * BCDBOOT.EXE: BCD boot file creation and repair tool. The bcdboot.exe command-line tool is used to copy critical boot files to the system partition and to create a new system BCD store. bcdboot [/l ] [/s ] [/v] [/m [{OS Loader ID}]] source Specifies the location of the windows system root. /l Specifies an optional locale parameter to use when initializing the BCD store. The default is US English. /s Specifies an optional volume letter parameter to designate the target system partition where boot environment files are copied. The default is the system partition identified by the firmware. /v Enables verbose mode. /m If an OS loader GUID is provided, this option merges the given loader object with the system template to produce a bootable entry. Otherwise, only global objects are merged. Examples: bcdboot c:\windows /l en-us bcdboot c:\windows /s h: bcdboot c:\windows /m {d58d10c6-df53-11dc-878f-00064f4f4e08} * BCDEDIT.EXE: Boot Configuration Data Store Editor. MS TechNet: BCDEdit Command Line Options: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc709667.aspx BCDEdit Guide: http://diddy.boot-land.net/bcdedit/ BCDEdit commands: http://diddy.boot-land.net/bcdedit/files/commands_list.htm BCDEdit command line tool: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/2676-bcdedit-how-use.html Use BCDEdit to dual-boot multiple Windows: http://www.superuser.com/questions/511582/ Dual-boot Windows 7 and Linux using BCDEdit: http://www.iceflatline.com/2009/09/how-to-dual-boot-windows-7-and-linux-using-bcdedit/ Loading/Installing Grub4Dos from Windows: http://diddy.boot-land.net/grub4dos/files/install_windows.htm The Bcdedit.exe command-line tool modifies the boot configuration data store. The boot configuration data store contains boot configuration parameters and controls how the operating system is booted. These parameters were previously in the Boot.ini file (in BIOS-based operating systems) or in the nonvolatile RAM entries (in Extensible Firmware Interface-based operating systems). You can use Bcdedit.exe to add, delete, edit, and append entries in the boot configuration data store. For detailed command and option information run: bcdedit.exe /? For example, to display detailed info about the /createstore command run: bcdedit.exe /? /createstore For an alphabetical list of topics in this help file run: bcdedit /? TOPICS Commands that operate on a store ================================ /createstore Creates a new and empty boot configuration data store. /export Exports the contents of the system store to a file. This file can be used later to restore the state of the system store. /import Restores the state of the system store using a backup file created with the /export command. /sysstore Sets the system store device (only affects EFI systems, does not persist across reboots, and is only used in cases where the system store device is ambiguous). Commands that operate on entries in a store =========================================== /copy Makes copies of entries in the store. /create Creates new entries in the store. /delete Deletes entries from the store. /mirror Creates mirror of entries in the store. Run bcdedit /? ID for information about identifiers used by these commands. Commands that operate on entry options ====================================== /deletevalue Deletes entry options from the store. /set Sets entry option values in the store. Run bcdedit /? TYPES for a list of datatypes used by these commands. Run bcdedit /? FORMATS for a list of valid data formats. Commands that control output ============================ /enum Lists entries in the store. /v Command-line option that displays entry identifiers in full, rather than using names for well-known identifiers. Use /v by itself as a command to display entry identifiers in full for the ACTIVE type. Running "bcdedit" by itself is equivalent to running: bcdedit /enum ACTIVE Commands that control the boot manager ====================================== /bootsequence Sets the one-time boot sequence for the boot manager. /default Sets the default entry that the boot manager will use. /displayorder Sets the order in which the boot manager displays the multiboot menu. /timeout Sets the boot manager time-out value. /toolsdisplayorder Sets the order in which the boot manager displays the tools menu. Commands that control Emergency Management Services for a boot application ========================================================================== /bootems Enables or disables Emergency Management Services for a boot application. /ems Enables or disables Emergency Management Services for an operating system entry. /emssettings Sets the global Emergency Management Services parameters. Command that control debugging ============================== /bootdebug Enables or disables boot debugging for a boot application. /dbgsettings Sets the global debugger parameters. /debug Enables or disables kernel debugging for an operating system entry. /hypervisorsettings Sets the hypervisor parameters. TOPICS IN THIS HELP FILE To display help for a topic run: bcdedit /? where is one of the following: bootdebug /bootdebug command. bootems /bootems command. bootsequence /bootsequence command. copy /copy command. create /create command. createstore /createstore command. dbgsettings /dbgsettings command. debug /debug command. default /default command. delete /delete command. deletevalue /deletevalue command. displayorder /displayorder command. ems /ems command. emssettings /emssettings command. enum /enum command. export /export command. FORMATS Formats for types. hypervisorsettings /hypervisorsettings command. ID Identifiers for entries.. import /import command. mirror /mirror command. set /set command. store /store command-line option. timeout /timeout command. toolsdisplayorder /toolsdisplayorder command. TYPES Types that apply to any entry. TYPES BOOTAPP Types that apply to boot applications. These include the boot manager, memory diagnostic application, Windows OS loader, and the resume application. TYPES BOOTMGR Types that apply to the boot manager. TYPES BOOTSECTOR Types that apply to the boot sector application. TYPES CUSTOMTYPES Custom types. TYPES FWBOOTMGR Types that apply to the firmware boot manager TYPES MEMDIAG Types that apply to the memory diagnostic application TYPES NTLDR Types that apply to the NTLDR based OS loader TYPES OSLOADER Types that apply to the Windows OS loader TYPES RESUME Types that apply to the resume application v /v command-line option TYPES The /set and /deletevalue commands require a as a parameter. uniquely identifies both the data format and meaning of the value. Data types are identified using either a name or a custom type. The names are listed below, along with their data formats (in parentheses) and a short description of the custom type. If a format is not specified, then the description lists the literal values that you can use for that type. For information about data formats run: bcdedit /? formats The following types are valid for any entry. For information about types that are specific to a particular entry, such as boot manager entries or the Windows OS Loader entries, see the end of this help topic. Entries ======= DESCRIPTION (string) Defines the description of the entry. PATH (string) Defines the path to the application. DEVICE (device) Defines the device that the application resides on. INHERIT (list) Defines the list of entries to be inherited. For information about additional types for device objects run: bcdedit /? TYPES DEVOBJECT For information about additional types for particular applications run: bcdedit /? TYPES where is one of the following: BOOTAPP Boot applications. These types also apply to the boot manager, memory diagnostic application, Windows OS loader, and the resume application. BOOTMGR Boot manager. BOOTSECTOR Boot sector application. CUSTOMTYPES Custom types. DEVOBJECT Device object additional options. FWBOOTMGR Firmware boot manager MEMDIAG Memory diagnostic application NTLDR OS loader that shipped with earlier Windows OS OSLOADER Windows Vista OS loader RESUME Resume application The following describes the formats of the data that are required for used with the /set command. The format that is required depends on the that you specify with the /set command. For more information about the formats associated with each , run "bcdedit /? TYPES". bool A boolean value. The following values correspond to TRUE: 1, ON, YES, TRUE The following values correspond to FALSE: 0, OFF, NO, FALSE device A device can be one of the following types: BOOT PARTITION= HD_PARTITION= FILE=[] RAMDISK=[], VHD=[], The options for these types are: A drive letter with a colon and no trailing backslashes. (Required) Can be either BOOT, LOCATE, or a drive letter with colon. The square brackets do not indicate that this is optional, but are a literal part of the syntax. A path to the file (or .wim file) from the root of the parent device. The identifier to the device options entry that contains the system deployment image (SDI) options for the RAM disk. This is usually {ramdisksdioptions}. Supplies an optional element used to locate a device within a VHD. The default locate element for a device is its application path (systemroot for an osdevice). Custom values must be specified using custom element sytax (see -help types customtypes), for example: locate=custom:22000002. id An entry identifier, which refers to an entry in the boot configuration data store. Run: bcdedit /? ID for more information about identifiers. integer A 64-bit integer type. Some integer types can be set using enumerated values. integerlist A list of one or more 64-bit integers, separated by spaces. This list should not be enclosed in quotation marks. list An entry identifier list. It contains one or more entry identifiers separated by spaces. The list should not be enclosed in quotation marks. string A literal string. If it contains spaces, it should be surrounded by quotation marks (""). DEVICE ADDITIONAL OPTIONS The following types apply to device additional options entries. For information about data formats for these types run: bcdedit /? FORMATS The following options are valid for the device additional options entry: Ramdisk EXPORTASCD (bool) Enables exporting the RAM disk as a CD. RAMDISKIMAGELENGTH (integer) Defines the image length for the RAM disk. RAMDISKIMAGEOFFSET (integer) Defines the image offset for the RAM disk. RAMDISKSDIDEVICE (device) Defines the device on which the SDI file is located. RAMDISKSDIPATH (string) Defines the path to the SDI file. RAMDISKTFTPCLIENTPORT (integer) Defines the Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) client port for the RAM disk Windows Imaging (WIM) file. RAMDISKTFTPBLOCKSIZE (integer) Defines the Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) block size for the RAM disk Windows Imaging (WIM) file. RAMDISKTFTPWINDOWSIZE (integer) Defines the Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) window size for RAM disk Windows imaging (WIM) file. RAMDISKMCENABLED (bool) Enables or disables Multicast for RAM disk Windows Imaging (WIM) file. RAMDISKMCTFTPFALLBACK (bool) Enables fallback to TFTP if Multicast fails. IDENTIFIERS Many of the Bcdedit commands require identifiers. An identifier uniquely identifies entries contained in the store. An identifier takes the form of a globally unique identifier, or GUID. A GUID has the following format, where each "x" represents a hexadecimal digit. {xxxxxxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxxxxxxxxxx} For example: {d2b69192-8f14-11da-a31f-ea816ab185e9} The position of the dashes (-) and the braces {} at the beginning and end of the GUID are required. Several entries can be identified by well-known identifiers. If an entry has a well-known identifier, BCDedit displays it in output unless the /v command-line switch is used. For more information run: bcdedit /? /v The well-known identifiers are as follows: {bootmgr} Specifies the Windows boot manager entry. {fwbootmgr} Specifies the firmware boot manager entry, specifically on systems that implement the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) specification. {memdiag} Specifies the memory diagnostic application entry. {ntldr} Specifies a OS loader (Ntldr) that can be used to start operating systems earlier than Windows Vista/2008/7. {current} Specifies a virtual identifier that corresponds to the operating system boot entry for the operating system that is currently running. {default} Specifies a virtual identifier that corresponds to the boot manager default application entry. {ramdiskoptions} Contains the additional options required by the boot manager for RAM disk devices. {dbgsettings} Contains the global debugger settings that can be inherited by any boot application entry. {emssettings} Contains the global Emergency Management Services settings that can be inherited by any boot application entry. {badmemory} Contains the global RAM defect list that can be inherited by any boot application entry. {globalsettings} Contains the collection of global settings that should be inherited by all boot application entries. {bootloadersettings} Contains the collection of global settings that should be inherited by all Windows boot loader application entries. {resumeloadersettings} Contains the collection of global settings that should be inherited by all Windows resume from hibernation application entries. {hypervisorsettings} Contains the hypervisor settings that can be inherited by any OS loader entry. This command sets an entry option value in the boot configuration data store. bcdedit [/store ] /set [{}] [ /addfirst | /addlast | /remove ] Specifies the store to be used. If this option is not specified, the system store is used. For more information run: bcdedit /? store Specifies the identifier of the entry to be modified. If not specified, {current} is used. For more information about identifiers run: bcdedit /? ID Specifies the option data type that will be created or modified. Run: bcdedit /? TYPES for more information about data types. Specifies the value that should be assigned to the option. The format of depends on the data type specified. Run: bcdedit /? FORMATS for more information about data formats. /addfirst This switch can only be used if datatype is an object list. Adds the specified entry identifier to the top of the list. If this switch is specified, only a single entry identifier may be specified. If the specified identifier is already in the list, it will be moved to the top of the list. /addlast This switch can only be used if datatype is an object list. Adds the specified entry identifier to the end of the list. If this switch is specified, only a single entry identifier may be specified. If the specified identifier is already in the list, it is moved to the end of the list. /remove This switch can only be used if datatype is an object list. Removes the specified entry identifier from the list. If this switch is specified, only a single entry identifier may be specified. If the identifier is not in the list then the operation has no effect. If the last entry is being removed, then the datatype value is deleted. Examples: The following command sets the application device to the partition C: for the specified operating system entry: bcdedit /set {cbd971bf-b7b8-4885-951a-fa03044f5d71} device partition=C: NOTE: Use 'hd_partiton=' syntax to explicitly disable automatic VHD detection, and create entries that are compatible for booting a virtual machine, i.e.: bcdedit /store F:\boot\bcd /set {default} device hd_partition=F: The following command sets the OS device to a VHD file (C:\vdisks\vdisk01.vhd) for the specified operating system entry: bcdedit /set {cbd971bf-b7b8-4885-951a-fa03044f5d71} osdevice vhd=[C:]\vdisks\disk01.vhd The following command sets the application path to \windows\system32\winload.exe for the specified operating system entry: bcdedit /set {cbd971bf-b7b8-4885-951a-fa03044f5d71} path \windows\system32\winload.exe The following command sets the NX policy to OptIn for the current operating system boot entry. bcdedit /set nx optin * BOOTREC.EXE: http://support.microsoft.com/help/927392/ You can use the Bootrec.exe tool in the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) to troubleshoot and repair the following items in Windows Vista or 7: * A master boot record (MBR). * A boot sector. * A Boot Configuration Data (BCD) store. NOTE: When you are troubleshooting startup issues by using Windows RE, you should first try the Startup Repair option in the System Recovery Options dialog box. If the Startup Repair option does not resolve the issue, or if you must troubleshoot more steps manually, use the Bootrec.exe tool. To run the Bootrec.exe tool you must start Windows RE. To do this, follow these steps: 1. Put the Windows Vista or 7 installation disc in the disc drive, and then start the computer. 2. Press a key when you are prompted. 3. Select a language, a time, a currency, a keyboard or an input method, and then click Next. 4. Click Repair your computer. 5. Click the operating system you want to repair, and then click Next. 6. In the System Recovery Options dialog box, click Command Prompt. 7. Type Bootrec.exe, and then press ENTER. NOTE: To start the computer from the Windows Vista or 7 DVD, the computer must be configured to start from the DVD drive. For more information about how to configure the computer to start from the DVD drive, see the documentation included with the computer or contact the computer manufacturer. The Bootrec.exe tool supports the following options. Use the option appropriate for your situation. NOTE: Use the Bootrec.exe tool to troubleshoot "Bootmgr Is Missing" issue. If rebuilding the BCD does not resolve the startup issue, you can export and delete the BCD, and then run this option again. By doing this, you make sure that the BCD is completely rebuilt. To do this, type the following commands at the Windows RE command prompt: bcdedit /export C:\BCD_Backup c: cd boot attrib bcd -s -h -r ren c:\boot\bcd bcd.old bootrec /RebuildBcd /FixMbr The /FixMbr option writes a Windows 7 or Vista compatible MBR to the system partition. This option does not overwrite the existing partition table. Use this option when you must resolve MBR corruption issues, or when you have to remove non-standard code from the MBR. /FixBoot The /FixBoot option writes a new boot sector to the system partition by using a boot sector that is compatible with Windows Vista or 7. Use this option if one of the following conditions is true: * The boot sector has been replaced with a non-standard Windows Vista or 7 boot sector. * The boot sector is damaged. * An earlier Windows operating system has been installed after Windows Vista or 7 was installed. In this scenario the computer starts by using Windows NT Loader (NTLDR) instead of Windows Boot Manager (Bootmgr.exe). /ScanOs The /ScanOs option scans all disks for installations compatible with Windows Vista or 7. Additionally, this option displays the entries currently not in the BCD store. Use this option when there are Windows Vista or 7 installations that the Boot Manager menu does not list. /RebuildBcd The /RebuildBcd option scans all disks for installations compatible with Windows Vista or 7. Additionally, this option lets you select the installations you want to add to the BCD store. Use this option when you must completely rebuild the BCD. Startup Repair can automatically recover from most BCD problems. If you prefer to manually analyze and repair problems, you can use the command line tool BootRec.exe by starting the System Recovery tools and then clicking Command Prompt in the System Recovery Options dialog box. BootRec.exe supports the following command line parameters: /FIXMBR writes a new MBR to the system partition. /FIXBOOT writes a new boot sector onto the system partition. /SCANOS scans all disks for Windows installations and displays entries currently not in the BCD store. /REBUILDBCD scans all disks for Windows installations and provides a choice of which entries to add to the BCD store. * BOOTSECT.EXE: Boot sector restoration tool. bootsect {/help|/nt60|/nt52} {SYS|ALL|:} [/force] [/mbr] Bootsect.exe updates the master boot code for hard disk partitions in order to switch between BOOTMGR and NTLDR. You can use this tool to restore the boot sector on your computer. /help Displays these usage instructions. /nt52 Applies the master boot code that is compatible with NTLDR to SYS, ALL, or . The operating system installed on SYS, ALL, or must be older than Windows Vista. /nt60 Applies the master boot code that is compatible with BOOTMGR to SYS, ALL, or . The operating system installed on SYS, ALL, or must be Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 or later. SYS Updates the master boot code on the system partition used to boot Windows. ALL Updates the master boot code on all partitions. ALL does not necessarily update the boot code for each volume. Instead, this option updates the boot code on volumes that could be used as Windows boot volumes, which excludes any dynamic volumes that are not connected with an underlying disk partition. This restriction is present because boot code must be located at the beginning of a disk partition. Updates the master boot code on the volume associated with this drive letter. Boot code will not be updated if either 1) is not associated with a volume or 2) is associated with a volume not connected to an underlying disk partition. /force Forcibly dismounts the volume(s) during the boot code update. You should use this option with caution. If Bootsect.exe cannot gain exclusive volume access then the file system may overwrite the boot code before the next reboot. Bootsect.exe always attempts to lock and dismount the volume before each update. When /force is specified, a forced dismount is attempted if the initial lock attempt fails. A lock can fail, for example, if files on the target volume are currently opened by other programs. When successful, a forced dismount allows exclusive volume access and a reliable boot code update even though the initial lock failed. At the same time, a forced dismount invalidates all open handles to files on the target volume. This could result in unexpected behavior from the programs that opened these files. Therefore, you should use this option with caution. /mbr Updates the Master Boot Record without changing the partition table on sector 0 of the disk that contains the partition specified by SYS, ALL, or drive letter. When used with /nt52 option, the master boot record is compatible with operating systems older than Windows Vista. When used with the /nt60 option, the master boot record is compatible with Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 or later. Example: To apply the master boot code that is compatible with NTLDR to the volume labeled E:, use the following command: bootsect /nt52 E:  Windows Side-by-Side (WinSxS) Folder * Move/delete WinSxS folder/files in Windows Vista/7/8/8.1: 01. Download + unzip PendMove (PendMove.exe) + MoveFile (MoveFile.exe) -> place them inside your C:\Windows\System32 folder. http://technet.microsoft.com/sysinternals/pendmoves.aspx File: http://download.sysinternals.com/files/PendMoves.zip 02. Explorer -> \Windows\WinSxS -> right-click on it -> Properties -> Security tab -> must list the owner of the directory user (Administrator) -> must grant Administrator Full Control. 03. Run an Administrator command prompt -> create dummy directory: mkdir C:\Windows\WinSxS.moved 04. Create junction (a.k.a. symbolic link): mklink /J C:\Windows\WinSxS.link WinSxS.moved 05. Delete WinSxS.moved directory: rmdir C:\Windows\WinSxS.moved 06. Use MoveFile to schedule renaming of WinSxS directory at next reboot. 07. Run Administrator command prompt: movefile C:\Windows\WinSxS C:\Windows\WinSxS.moved This will rename WinSxS directory before Windows can get a lock on it. 08. Run Administrator command prompt: movefile C:\Windows\WinSxS.link C:\Windows\WinSxS This restores new WinSxS directory back to avoid OS critical errors! 09. Run Administrator command prompt: pendmoves This shows the 2 pending moves you executed above with no errors -> reboot. 10. Upon reboot critical rename/move operations will execute and WinSxS directory will be unlocked + allowed to be moved. 11. Run Administrator command prompt: dir C:\Windows\WinSxS* Can see WinSxS.moved directory contents and WinSxS junction. If this doesn't work, MUST repeat steps above! 12. Explorer -> copy entire WinSxS.moved directory to \Windows directory on different drive/partition/volume (example D:). 13. Rename new directory from WinSxS.moved back to WinSxS . 14. Run Administrator command prompt: rmdir C:\Windows\WinSxS 15. Run Administrator command prompt: mklink /J C:\Windows\WinSxS D:\Windows\WinSxS 16. Explorer -> browse to C:\Windows\WinSxS -> should see all files, even if now physically located on different drive/partition/volume. 17. Reboot. 18. Now you should be able to delete C:\Windows\WinSxS.moved to free disk space. * Move/delete WU downloads folder in Windows Vista/7/8/8.1: Same process can be applied to Windows Updates (WU) list. Installed Windows Updates are configured to download to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution which will grow too large, and take too much space. Stop WU service -> moveCreate a directory junction -> restart WU service -> done. * Q: Should you delete files inside \WinSxS directory? And what's the deal with VSS? A: No. Why? Because component store (\WinSxS) is needed to repair OS binaries in the event file(s) become corrupted or compromised. Directories located under component store: \WinSxS\Catalogs = Security catalogs for each manifest on the system; \WinSxS\InstallTemp = Temporary location for install events; \WinSxS\Manifests = Component manifest for each specific component used during operation to make sure files end up in proper location; \WinSxS\Temp = Temp directory used for various operations, pending renames; \WinSxS\Backup = Backups of manifest files in case the copy in \WinSxS\Manifests becomes corrupted; \WinSxS\Filemaps = File system mapping to a file location; \WinSxS\ = Binary payloads for each specific component. So long as files in the \Windows\System32 directory are valid, most likely you wouldn't see any problems initially, the machine would most likely operate properly. However, the 1st time you attempt to update a binary, apply a service pack or service a component, it's going to fail because the backing components needed don't exist anymore. The way files end up in \System32 are via hardlinks. This should help answer another question regarding how VSS is used in servicing. Short answer: No. We use NTFS hardlinks to project the file to the file system from the component store. That's why the \WinSxS directory is so important. The files there can be seen as the "authoritative" versions on the file system. When there is an issue and a binary needs to be replaced, running SFC /SCANFILE against it verifies the directories above and if the version doesn't match, it will re-project it so it stars working again. See the hardlink via CLI (example): C:\Windows\System32\drivers>fsutil hardlink list ntfs.sys \Windows\System32\drivers\ntfs.sys \Windows\WinSxS\amd64_microsoft-windows-ntfs_31bf3856ad364e35_6.1.7600.16385_none_02661b64369ca03a\ntfs.sys You can see the NTFS file has a link to the \WinSxS directory and if that version of NTFS were to become corrupted, we could go back to the component store and find a new copy. The \WinSxS backup directory exists in the event the version in the main directory has also become corrupted. This is a good method of having decent OS protection without consuming a huge amount of space. New servicing structure does remove the $NTUninstall$ folders that many people have become accustomed to in Windows NT/2000/XP/2003. Updates, if they are marked as removable, no longer contain that structure. Instead, updates are recommended to be removed via Control Panel -> Programs -> Installed Updates. Updates can be removed via appropriate switches using DISM.EXE or PKGMGR.EXE, but Control Panel method tends to be cleaner. * WinSxSLite: http://www.dmitrybobrovsky.ru/2012/09/05/decrease-of-the-size-of-folder-winsxs-in-windows-7-or-how-to-use-winsxslite-bat/ NEWest: http://sites.google.com/site/winsxslite/ File: http://raw.githubusercontent.com/ferventcoder/nugetpackages/master/WinsxsLite1.88.zip OLD Version: http://www.dmitrybobrovsky.ru/wp-content/uploads/files/winsxslite.zip * Reduce size of WinSxS folder with COMPCLN.EXE: http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/tr-dojo/reduce-the-size-of-the-winsxs-folder-with-vsp1clnexe-and-compclnexe/ http://www.boshdirect.com/Blogs/Tech/how-to-reduce-size-of-winsxs.html * WinSxS = Reduce folder size by deleting some files: http://blogs.technet.com/b/askcore/archive/2008/09/17/what-is-the-winsxs-directory-in-windows-2008-and-windows-vista-and-why-is-it-so-large.aspx http://blogs.technet.com/b/joscon/archive/2010/08/06/should-you-delete-files-in-the-winsxs-directory-and-what-s-the-deal-with-vss.aspx http://www.helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/cleanup-the-winsxs-folder-in-windows-8-7/ * WinSxS = Delete duplicates by hand: http://www.msfn.org/board/Guide-WinSxS-Dupe-removel-t109131.html * Delete Windows 7/8 backup files: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/dn251565.aspx * DISM.EXE commands for component cleanup: http://docs.microsoft.com/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/what-is-dism/ http://docs.microsoft.com/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/dism-image-management-command-line-options-s14/ DISM.EXE /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup DISM.EXE /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup /ResetBase DISM.EXE /online /Cleanup-Image /SpSuperseded * Package Manager (PKGMGR.EXE) Command Line Options: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc749465.aspx Use Package Manager (PKGMGR.EXE) to Uninstall A Package: http://support.microsoft.com/help/940410/ * Windows 7 64-bit (x64) vLite extreme removal: http://www.msfn.org/board/topic/136837-windows-7-x64-vlite-extreme-removal/ * WinSxS Folder in Windows 7/8 explained: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/winsxs-folder-windows-7-8  Free(ware) Burn/Copy/Write/Install CDs/DVDs/BDs Tools * Create Windows 7 Live CD/DVD/USB using WinBuilder: http://www.instantfundas.com/2010/12/how-to-create-windows-7-live-cddvdusb.html * WinBuilder: http://reboot.pro/files/file/4-winbuilder/ http://reboot.pro/files/download/4-winbuilder/ WinBuilder Scripts: http://reboot.pro/files/category/5-winbuilder/ WinBuilder Download Center = Scripts: http://multipe.exec-se.de/ * Win7PE_SE: http://reboot.pro/topic/12427-win7pe-se-release/ Win7PE SE Downloads [144 MB]: http://w7pese.cwcodes.net/Compressed/ multiPE 62 script: http://reboot.pro/files/file/61-multipe/ * Get WAIK Tools without downloading entire ISO: http://www.msfn.org/board/topic/156869-get-waik-tools-wo-loading-the-huge-isos/ File: http://db.tt/2l5l22OE * Create Windows 7 Bootable Install USB Drive ISO: http://www.softlay.net/operating-system/create-windows-7-bootable-usb-install-disk-drive-iso.html * Windows 7 Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK): http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/confirmation.aspx?id=5753 Win7 WAIK ISO [1.7 GB]: http://download.microsoft.com/download/8/E/9/8E9BBC64-E6F8-457C-9B8D-F6C9A16E6D6A/KB3AIK_EN.iso Win7 WAIK ReadMe: http://docs.microsoft.com/previous-versions/windows/it-pro/windows-7/dd349350(v=ws.10) Win7 SP1 WAIK Supplement: http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=5188 Win7 SP1 WAIK Supplement ISO [1.3 GB]: http://download.microsoft.com/download/0/4/C/04C805CC-4C04-4D76-BE80-7D67B951CF73/waik_supplement_en-us.iso * GImageX GUI for Windows Imaging: http://www.autoitconsulting.com/site/software/gimagex/ * ei.cfg Removal Utility (Windows 7 Universal CD) Make Your Windows 7 Disc Universal: http://www.technibble.com/ei-cfg-removal-utility-repair-tool-of-the-week/ * Windows ISO Disc Image Utilities: http://code.kliu.org/misc/winisoutils/ * PEFactory: http://multipe.exec-se.de/Documentation/multiPE/PEF_index.htm * PEChecksum v1.4 (ModifyPE fixed to work with Windows Vista/2008/7/8/2012) corrects 32-bit portable executables (PE) file signatures: http://www.ryanvm.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5381 * Tools: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/list-freeware-releases-from-the-windows-club/ http://www.winaero.com/ http://www.xptsp.com/ http://www.blogsdna.com/ http://www.xp-smoker.com/ Themes: http://www.winaero.com/news.php?cat.2 Downloads: http://www.winaero.com/download.php?list.2 * WinCDEmu Portable: http://wincdemu.sysprogs.org/portable/ WinCDEmu 32-bit + 64-bit tool mounts CD/DVD/BD ISO/IMG images on HDD/SSD/USB: http://wincdemu.sysprogs.org/ File: http://wincdemu.sysprogs.org/download/ * WinFLASHTool writes raw disk images to flash/memory cards/sticks: http://winflashtool.sysprogs.com/ File: http://www.sysprogs.com/files/WinFLASHTool/v2/WinFlashTool.exe Download: http://winflashtool.sysprogs.com/download/ * cdrtfe Audio/CD/XCD/VCD/DVD/BD ISO/bootable burning tool: http://cdrtfe.sourceforge.io/ http://sourceforge.net/projects/cdrtfe/ Download: http://cdrtfe.sourceforge.io/cdrtfe/download_en.html Portable: http://sourceforge.net/projects/cdrtfe/files/cdrtfe%20portable/ Tools: http://cdrtfe.sourceforge.io/tools/index_en.html Download: http://sourceforge.net/projects/cdrtools/ File: http://sourceforge.net/projects/cdrtools/files/ * Sevenize: http://www.sevenize.com/ * Hide Windows 7 Completely: Shell, Logos, Icons, Start etc: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=113896.0 * Completely hide Windows and SHELL with 3rd party Front End: http://www.gameex.com/Community/InstantShellerandShellingGuide.aspx * Windows 7 Boot Updater: http://www.coderforlife.com/projects/win7boot/  OEM + WAT * OEM licensing terms: http://www.microsoft.com/oem/en/licensing/sblicensing/pages/licensing_faq.aspx OEM versions of Windows 7 are identical to Full License Retail (FLR) except... - OEM versions do not offer any free Microsoft direct support from Microsoft support. - OEM licenses are tied to the 1st computer you install and activate it on. - OEM versions allow all hardware upgrades except for an upgrade to different model mobo. - OEM versions cannot be used to directly upgrade from older Windows OS.  Updates/(Hot)Fixes + Windows Update (WU) * NOTE: All these Microsoft Updates/Upgrades/Service Packs (SPs)/(Hot)Fixes/Patches/etc are for English [en-US] Operating Systems (OSes). See Microsoft web pages for information how to download Windows updates in other languages. * Must uninstall Windows 7/7 SP1 Updates/Upgrades/(Hot)Fixes/Patches/etc which expose your computer(s) to: - invasion of privacy, - telemetry ("phone home"), - data collection/logging, - customer experience, - unwanted "offers", - spyware, - adware, - forced upgrade to Windows 10: http://www.mdgx.com/xptoy.htm#10BLK http://gist.github.com/xvitaly/eafa75ed2cb79b3bd4e9/ http://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/a-complete-list-of-all-updates-you-should-uninstall-to-block-windows-10/ http://www.sevenforums.com/installation-setup/413301-reinstall-win7-what-updates-avoid-telemetry-winx-preparation-3.html Similar tools: http://www.majorgeeks.com/mg/sortname/windows_10_fixes.html All Microsoft Updates/Upgrades/(Hot)Fixes/Patches/etc listed at the web sites above should be uninstalled immediately: Open Notepad or similar/better free(ware) plain text/ASCII editor: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT and save BATch file below as Uninstall_BUGGY_Updates.bat . Right-click on Uninstall_BUGGY_Updates.bat -> "Run as Administrator" -> reboot. -----Begin cut & paste here----- @ECHO OFF IF NOT "%OS%"=="Windows_NT" GOTO END IF NOT EXIST %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE GOTO END :: KB971033: Windows Activation Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:971033 /quiet /norestart :: KB2952664: Get Windows 10 (GWX) Assistant: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:2952664 /quiet /norestart :: KB2990214: Get Windows 10 (GWX): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:2990214 /quiet /norestart :: KB3012973: Upgrade to Windows 10 Pro: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3012973 /quiet /norestart :: KB3021917: Performance Improvements Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3021917 /quiet /norestart :: KB3022345: Customer Experience and Diagnostic Telemetry Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3022345 /quiet /norestart :: KB3035583: Get Windows 10 (GWX) App: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3035583 /quiet /norestart :: KB3044374: Get Windows 10 (GWX) Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3044374 /quiet /norestart :: KB3068708: Customer Experience and Diagnostic Telemetry Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3068708 /quiet /norestart :: KB3075249: Telemetry Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3075249 /quiet /norestart :: KB3080149: Customer Experience and Diagnostic Telemetry Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3080149 /quiet /norestart :: KB3112343: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3112343 /quiet /norestart :: KB3083711: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3083711 /quiet /norestart :: KB3083325: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3083325 /quiet /norestart :: KB3075853: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3075853 /quiet /norestart :: KB3072318: OOBE Update to upgrade to Windows 10: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3072318 /quiet /norestart :: KB3065988: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3065988 /quiet /norestart :: KB3064683: OOBE Update to upgrade to Windows 10: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3064683 /quiet /norestart :: KB3058168: Activate Windows 10 from Hosts Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3058168 /quiet /norestart :: KB3050267: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3050267 /quiet /norestart :: KB2976978: Compatibility Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:2976978 /quiet /norestart :: KB2977759: Compatibility Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:2977759 /quiet /norestart :: KB3081954: Work Folders Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3081954 /quiet /norestart :: KB3123862: Upgrade Capability Update: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3123862 /quiet /norestart :: KB3138612: Windows Update Client (WUC): START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3138612 /quiet /norestart :: KB3172605: July 2016 Update Rollup: START "Uninstalling..." /B /WAIT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE /uninstall /KB:3172605 /quiet /norestart TIMEOUT /T 5 /NOBREAK :END EXIT ------End cut & paste here------ * Windows 7/7 SP1 Updates Catalog: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/search.aspx?q=Windows%207%20Update Download desired Update(s)/Fix(es)/Patch(es) to your local disk -> right-click .EXE/.MSI/.MSP/.MSU file -> Run as Administrator -> reboot (if prompted). * Windows 7/7 SP1 Updates History: http://support.microsoft.com/help/4009469/ * Windows 7 SP1 System Update Readiness (SUR) tool: http://support.microsoft.com/help/947821/ - SUR 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/E/8/D/E8DAA970-1036-447F-B5EA-716D4BA70EC5/Windows6.1-KB947821-v34-x64.msu - SUR 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/7/A/47A0F7B9-1F0F-41B0-AA42-00FD16337268/Windows6.1-KB947821-v34-x86.msu Windows Update Errors in Windows Vista/2008/7 Fixed by System Update Readiness (SUR) tool: http://support.microsoft.com/help/947821/ Fix Windows Update Error 00009C48 in Windows 7: http://www.sevenforums.com/windows-updates-activation/213912-i-cant-update-windows-due-windows-up-date-error-00009c48.html * Windows 7 SP1 Servicing Stack Update (SSU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/3020369/ - SSU 64-bit [10 MB]: http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/D/0/5D0821EB-A92D-4CA2-9020-EC41D56B074F/Windows6.1-KB3020369-x64.msu - SSU 32-bit [8 MB]: http://download.microsoft.com/download/C/0/8/C0823F43-BFE9-4147-9B0A-35769CBBE6B0/Windows6.1-KB3020369-x86.msu * Windows 7 SP1 Monthly Rollup Update (MRU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/4093118/ - MRU 64-bit [219 MB]: http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/secu/2018/04/windows6.1-kb4093118-x64_5ea1778b896fcc764e0db8da7d094f62dc98d82f.msu - MRU 32-bit [131 MB]: http://download.windowsupdate.com/c/msdownload/update/software/secu/2018/04/windows6.1-kb4093118-x86_2bbb81cd98fb80623b7afa3dcb2da73f28322ea3.msu * Windows 7 SP1 Convenience Rollup Update (CRU) + VNIC.VBS VBScript: http://support.microsoft.com/help/3125574/ - CRU 64-bit [477 MB]: http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/updt/2016/05/windows6.1-kb3125574-v4-x64_2dafb1d203c8964239af3048b5dd4b1264cd93b9.msu - CRU 32-bit [317 MB]: http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/updt/2016/05/windows6.1-kb3125574-v4-x86_ba1ff5537312561795cc04db0b02fbb0a74b2cbd.msu * Windows 7 SP1 Security Quality Rollup (SQR): http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/search.aspx?q=Security+Quality+Rollup+Windows+7+SP1 SQR is updated every month. * Windows 7 SP1 Stop Errors with Multiple CPUs TCPIP.SYS Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2905412/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=2905412&kbln=en-us - TCPIP.SYS Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix476701/7600/free/470223_intl_x64_zip.exe - TCPIP.SYS Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix476701/7600/free/470191_intl_i386_zip.exe All TCPIP.SYS Hotfixes for Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016: http://www.mskbfiles.com/tcpip.sys.php * Windows 7 Stop Errors with Large SATA HDD MSAHCI.SYS Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/977178/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/hotfix/KBHotfix.aspx?kbnum=977178&kbln=en-us - SATA HDD Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix306215/7600/free/404474_intl_x64_zip.exe - SATA HDD Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix306215/7600/free/404472_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7 Registry Hive Ntkrnlpa.exe + Ntoskrnl.exe Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/983544/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=983544&kbln=en-US - Registry Hive Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix322114/7600/free/413807_intl_x64_zip.exe - Registry Hive Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix322114/7600/free/413805_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7/8/8.1 DirectX 9.0c (DX9c)/10.0 (DX10)/11.x (DX11) 32-bit + 64-bit: http://www.mdgx.com/dx.htm#DX9 * Windows 7 SP1 DirectX (DX) Graphics Update: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2028560/ - DX Graphics 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/F/1/A/F1A02F0C-0F64-4E87-9BC1-EFA8CDE464FE/Windows6.1-KB2028560-v2-x64.msu - DX Graphics 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/9/7/6/976634BE-DC4D-4B7B-9567-209811D7AF14/Windows6.1-KB2028560-v2-x86.msu * Windows 7 SP1 DirectX (DX) Direct3D (D3D) App Crash Full Screen Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2400157/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=2400157&kbln=en-US - DX D3D Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix347381/7600/free/425610_intl_x64_zip.exe - DX D3D Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix347381/7600/free/425608_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7 SP1 Performance and Functionality Update (FPU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/2454826/ - FPU 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/D/B/D/DBD62263-2627-49CB-B675-AA1601EBE0BD/Windows6.1-KB2454826-v2-x64.msu - FPU 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/E/4/5E404378-9A5D-41AB-AFBA-1AC04F3B2A13/Windows6.1-KB2454826-v2-x86.msu * Windows Vista/2008/7/8/8.1 Windows Help (.HLP) + Compiled HTML Help (.CHM) WinHlp32.exe Fix: http://www.mdgx.com/add.htm#HHU * USBView (USBView.exe): http://docs.microsoft.com/windows-hardware/drivers/debugger/usbview/ Available as part of Windows 10 SDK for Windows 7 SP1/8/8.1/10: http://developer.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windows-10-sdk/ SETUP ONLY: http://download.microsoft.com/download/8/C/3/8C37C5CE-C6B9-4CC8-8B5F-149A9C976035/windowssdk/winsdksetup.exe Requires Universal C Runtime Update for Windows 7 SP1/8/8.1: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2999226/ USBView.exe installed in: - 64-bit Windows OS (x64): C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Kits\10\Debuggers - 32-bit Windows OS (x86): C:\Program Files\Windows Kits\10\Debuggers * Windows 7 SP1/8/8.1 Universal C Runtime Update: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2999226/ - Windows 8.1 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/9/6/F/96FD0525-3DDF-423D-8845-5F92F4A6883E/Windows8.1-KB2999226-x64.msu - Windows 8.1 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/E/4/6/E4694323-8290-4A08-82DB-81F2EB9452C2/Windows8.1-KB2999226-x86.msu - Windows 7 SP1 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/1/5/11565A9A-EA09-4F0A-A57E-520D5D138140/Windows6.1-KB2999226-x64.msu - Windows 7 SP1 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/F/E/4FE73868-5EDD-4B47-8B33-CE1BB7B2B16A/Windows6.1-KB2999226-x86.msu * Windows 7 SP1 Platform Update (PU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/2670838/ - PU 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/4/9/14936FE9-4D16-4019-A093-5E00182609EB/Windows6.1-KB2670838-x64.msu - PU 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/4/9/14936FE9-4D16-4019-A093-5E00182609EB/Windows6.1-KB2670838-x86.msu * Windows 7 SP1 0x00000050 Stop Error after installing Platform Update (PU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/2834140/ - PU Error Fix 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/A/5/5A548BFE-ADC5-414B-B6BD-E1EC27A8DD80/Windows6.1-KB2834140-v2-x64.msu - PU Error Fix 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/F/1/4/F1424AD7-F754-4B6E-B0DA-151C7CBAE859/Windows6.1-KB2834140-v2-x86.msu * FixIt! Windows Installer MSI/MSU Errors: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2438651/ FixIt! problems that block programs from being installed/removed: http://support.microsoft.com/help/17588/ File: http://download.microsoft.com/download/7/E/9/7E9188C0-2511-4B01-8B4E-0A641EC2F600/MicrosoftProgram_Install_and_Uninstall.meta.diagcab Repair MSI (Windows Installer) Automated Scripts: http://www.tweaking.com/content/page/repair_msi_windows_installer.html File: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/tweaking_com_repair_msi_(windows_installer).html Microsoft .NET Framework (NetFX) Repair Tool: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2698555/ Download: http://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=30135 File: http://download.microsoft.com/download/2/B/D/2BDE5459-2225-48B8-830C-AE19CAF038F1/NetFxRepairTool.exe Fatal Error 0x80070643: Failed to install .NET/MSI package: http://www.google.com/search?q=Error+0x80070643%3A+Failed+to+install+MSI+package http://stackoverflow.com/questions/41720158/ http://www.windows101tricks.com/fix-error-0x80070643-failed-to-install-msi-package/ http://social.msdn.microsoft.com/Forums/vstudio/14ccc37f-d70a-454d-bea2-a0244394ac5e/ http://blogs.msdn.microsoft.com/vsnetsetup/2014/10/ http://support.microsoft.com/help/10164/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cBg_A5axNI * FixIt! Windows Installer MSI/MSU Install Error 0x8007000D: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2230957/ File: http://download.microsoft.com/download/B/3/2/B3259ACE-2BFC-47D3-9627-A21372C1D4B5/MicrosoftFixit50485.msi * FixIt! Disable "Test mode" message: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2509241/ File: http://download.microsoft.com/download/C/7/9/C796E9A8-E2F2-4281-9A53-9BF67BB259FC/MicrosoftFixit50756.msi * Windows 7 Computer Stops Responding Randomly Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2265716/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=2265716&kbln=en-us File: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix322397/7600/free/417036_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7 SP1 Stop Error 0x00000050 in NTKRNLPA.EXE Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2516405/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/hotfix/KBHotfix.aspx?kbnum=2516405&kbln=en-us - NTKRNLPA.EXE Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix368160/7600/free/430477_intl_x64_zip.exe - NTKRNLPA.EXE Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix368160/7600/free/430476_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7 32-bit Variable %UserDomain% not resolved Profprov.dll + Profsvc.dll Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2664408/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=2664408&kbln=en-us File: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix397022/7600/free/444149_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7/7 SP1 ROBOCOPY.EXE incorrectly skips files Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2680906/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/Hotfix/KbHotfix?kbnum=2680906&kbln=en-US - ROBOCOPY.EXE Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix396879/7600/free/445248_intl_x64_zip.exe - ROBOCOPY.EXE Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix396879/7600/free/445246_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7 Audiodg.exe Memory Leak Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/981013/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/Hotfix/KbHotfix?kbnum=981013&kbln=en-US - Audiodg.exe Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix307914/7600/free/409416_intl_x64_zip.exe - Audiodg.exe Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/WindowsServer%202008%20R2/sp1/Fix307914/7600/free/409414_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7/7 SP1 defective WaitToKillServiceTimeout Registry value Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2549760/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/Hotfix/KbHotfix?kbnum=2549760&kbln=en-US - WaitToKillServiceTimeout Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix367694/7600/free/435571_intl_x64_zip.exe - WaitToKillServiceTimeout Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix367694/7600/free/435569_intl_i386_zip.exe * Windows 7/7 SP1 slow Startup (ReadyBoot) with many Restore Points Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2555428/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/Hotfix/KbHotfix?kbnum=2555428&kbln=en-US - ReadyBoot Hotfix 64-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix368028/7600/free/433314_intl_x64_zip.exe - ReadyBoot Hotfix 32-bit: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%207/Windows%20Server2008%20R2%20SP1/sp2/Fix368028/7600/free/433313_intl_i386_zip.exe * How to extract files from .MSU installers and install them in automated mode: http://blogs.msdn.microsoft.com/astebner/2008/03/11/knowledge-base-article-describing-how-to-extract-msu-files-and-automate-installing-them/ http://support.microsoft.com/help/934307/ Extract .MSU contents (example): %windir%\SYSTEM32\EXPAND.EXE -f:* "Q000000.msu" %temp%\Q000000 Then use extracted file (.XML) to install .MSU by using Package Manager (PkgMgr.exe), after renaming .XML file if needed (example): %windir%\SYSTEM32\PKGMGR.EXE /n:%temp%\Q000000\Q000000.xml Install .MSU directly using Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA.exe) (example): %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUSA.EXE "Q000000.MSU" /quiet /norestart * Toubleshoot: Missing Windows Installer Cache files: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/missing-windows-installer-cache-files-rebuild * Microsoft: FixIt!: http://support.microsoft.com/fixit/ * Fix problems with programs that canNOT be installed or uninstalled: http://support.microsoft.com/mats/Program_Install_and_Uninstall/ * FixIt! How to disable "Test mode" message: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2509241/ FixIt!: http://download.microsoft.com/download/C/7/9/C796E9A8-E2F2-4281-9A53-9BF67BB259FC/MicrosoftFixit50756.msi * Download ALL FixIt! Files: - FixIt! PORTABLE INSTALL = RECOMMENDED ! : http://download.microsoft.com/download/E/2/3/E237A32D-E0A9-4863-B864-9E820C1C6F9A/MicrosoftFixit-portable.exe - FixIt! LOCAL INSTALL: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2970908/ * FixIt! Disable network adapter power management setting: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2740020/ File: http://download.microsoft.com/download/0/A/F/0AFE6980-A813-42DD-86EC-58BF7A6A7B1B/MicrosoftEasyFix55016.msi * Troubleshoot Intel Network Adapters Power Management: http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000005879/network-and-i-o/wireless-networking.html * Stop Network Adapter from Getting Disabled in Windows 7: http://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/stop-network-adapter-from-getting-disabled-in-windows-7/ * Prevent Windows from Turning OFF USB Devices: http://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/prevent-windows-from-powering-off-usb-device/ * 5 Tools to Prevent Windows from Sleeping or Turning OFF the Display: http://www.raymond.cc/blog/dont-sleep-prevent-windows-from-standby-shutdown-hibernate-and-restart/ * DSKCACHE.EXE Hotfix for Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016: http://support.microsoft.com/help/811392/ Hotfix: http://support.microsoft.com/en-us/hotfix/kbhotfix?kbnum=811392 Files: http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%202000/sp5/Fix178740/2195/free/266264_ENU_i386_zip.exe http://hotfixv4.trafficmanager.net/Windows%202000/nosp/PKG37835/2195/free/109780_ENU_i386_zip.exe Enable write cache + power protection for all connected drives/volumes (example): DSKCACHE.EXE +p +w Registry settings [1 = enabled | 0 = disabled]: "UserWriteCacheSetting"=dword:1 "CacheIsPowerProtected"=dword:1 * How to Keep Your Computer Awake without Touching the Mouse or Keyboard: http://www.technorms.com/41354/keep-your-computer-awake-touching-mouse-keyboard/ * Mouse Jiggler: http://archive.codeplex.com/?p=mousejiggler File: http://github.com/cerebrate/mousejiggler/releases/download/1.6/MouseJiggle.exe http://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhancements/Other-Desktop-Enhancements/Mouse-Jiggler.shtml Requires Microsoft .Net Framework Redistributable (NFR) 2.0 (free): http://www.mdgx.com/add.htm#NFR DOCumentation: http://github.com/cerebrate/mousejiggler/ Command: MouseJiggle.exe -j -z -m * Save/view/print list of installed Windows Updates (WU) from the command line: http://www.rakhesh.com/windows/get-a-list-of-recently-installed-windows-updates-via-the-command-line/ Save updates list(s) to text file(s) (examples): %windir%\SYSTEM32\WMIC.EXE QFE>UPD_QFE.TXT %windir%\SYSTEM32\WMIC.EXE QFE LIST FULL>UPD_FULL.TXT %windir%\SYSTEM32\DISM.EXE /Online /Get-packages>UPD_LIST.TXT %windir%\SYSTEM32\DISM.EXE /Online /Get-Packages /Format:Table>UPD_TABLE.TXT %windir%\SYSTEM32\systeminfo.exe>UPD_INFO.TXT View text file(s) using Notepad. * How to Uninstall IE9: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2579295/ File: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2970908/ IE UNINSTALL Command: %windir%\SYSTEM32\FORFILES.EXE /P %windir%\Servicing\Packages /M Microsoft-Windows-InternetExplorer-*9.*.mum /c "CMD /C ECHO Uninstalling package @fname && START /W pkgmgr /up:@fname /norestart" * Install / Uninstall IE9 in Windows 7: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/how-do-i-install-or-uninstall-internet-explorer-9/ * Uninstall IE10 and Reinstall IE9 in Windows 7: http://news.softpedia.com/news/How-to-Remove-IE10-and-Get-Back-to-IE9-on-Windows-7-308998.shtml * Install / Uninstall IE10 in Windows 7: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/282216-internet-explorer-10-install-uninstall-windows-7-a.html * Searching, Downloading and Installing Updates: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/desktop/aa387102.aspx Searching, Downloading and Installing Specific Updates: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/desktop/aa387101.aspx Using the Windows Update Agent API: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/desktop/aa387287.aspx Using WUA to Scan for Updates Offline: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/desktop/aa387290.aspx MSKB: Error code 0x80000FFFF when using Windows Update or Microsoft Update: http://support.microsoft.com/help/946414/ MSKB: How to get latest version of Windows Update Agent: http://support.microsoft.com/help/949104/ MSKB: Unable to install Updates: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2509997/ SevenForums: Windows Update will not start: http://www.sevenforums.com/windows-updates-activation/120431-windows-update-will-not-start.html#post1039097 SevenForums: Windows Update service not working: http://www.sevenforums.com/windows-updates-activation/102472-windows-update-service-not-working.html Fix WU: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Tweak/System-Tweak/Fix-WU.shtml MDGx: Windows Update Client (WUC) + Windows Update Agent (WUA): http://www.mdgx.com/xptoy.htm#WUC * Enable Windows Updates (WU) in Windows 7/8/8.1: http://support.microsoft.com/help/4056895/ http://support.microsoft.com/help/4056894/ -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\QualityCompat] "cadca5fe-87d3-4b96-b7fb-a231484277cc"=dword:0 ; ------End cut & paste here------ * Portable Update (PortUp): http://www.portableupdate.com/ PortUp: http://www.portableupdate.com/public/PortUp.zip PortUp DOCumentation: http://www.portableupdate.com/docs/documentation.aspx * Microsoft: Windowss Updates (WU): http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ * WSUS Offline tool: http://download.wsusoffline.net/ * Start WuauServ (WU Service): %windir%\SYSTEM32\NET.EXE START wuauserv %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE CONFIG wuauserv START= demand * Run Windows Automatic Updates (WUA): %windir%\SYSTEM32\WUAPP.EXE * Repair/Reinstall Windows Update (WU): http://www.winhelp.us/reinstall-windows-update.html File: http://www.winhelp.us/files/MicrosoftFixit50202.msi * Fix WU Utility: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/repair-fix-windows-updates-with-fix-wu-utility/ File: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/downloads/Fix%20WU.zip * FixIt! Windows Update (WU): http://support.microsoft.com/mats/windows_update/ FixIt! WU PORTABLE: http://download.microsoft.com/download/E/2/3/E237A32D-E0A9-4863-B864-9E820C1C6F9A/MicrosoftFixit-portable.exe FixIt! WU ONLINE: http://download.microsoft.com/download/F/2/2/F22D5FDB-59CD-4275-8C95-1BE17BF70B21/WindowsUpdateDiagnostic.diagcab * Repair Windows 7 Update Issues: http://www.dell.com/support/troubleshooting/us/en/19/KCS/KcsArticles/ArticleView?docid=404587 * Hide/Restore Hidden Windows Updates in Windows 7/8/8.1: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/24376-windows-update-hide-restore-hidden-updates.html * Windows Hotfix Downloader (WHDownloader.exe) for Windows 7/8/8.1/10: http://forums.mydigitallife.net/threads/whdownloader-support-and-chat.44645/ File: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/windows_hotfix_downloader.html * Windows Updates Downloader (WUD): http://www.windowsupdatesdownloader.com/ Files: http://www.windowsupdatesdownloader.com/ProgramFiles.aspx Updates List (ULZ): http://www.windowsupdatesdownloader.com/UpdateLists.aspx * Windows Update Checker (KUC): http://windows-update-checker.com/ Files: http://windows-update-checker.com/download/ * TheHotfixShare (THS) Windows Hotfixes: http://www.thehotfixshare.net/board/index.php?autocom=downloads THS forum membership is free. * Repair & Fix Windows Vista/7 problems with FixWin: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/repair-fix-windows-7-vista-problems-with-fixwin-utility/ File: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/downloads/FixWin.zip Guide: http://www.windowsvalley.com/download-fixwin-utility-reform-your-windows/ * Windows Update Client (WUC) + Windows Update Agent (WUA): http://www.mdgx.com/xptoy.htm#WUC * System Update Readiness Tool fixes WUA errors in Windows Vista/7/2008/8: http://support.microsoft.com/help/947821/ * Windows 7 Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) Core Fonts Blurred Text Fix: http://support.microsoft.com/help/2545698/ - IE9 Text Fix 64-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/0/5/6/05675ADF-21AB-4476-8731-95182643D02C/Windows6.1-KB2545698-x64.msu - IE9 Text Fix 32-bit: http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/C/7/4C7D491B-6F78-4DB7-B87C-71777BF41E3F/Windows6.1-KB2545698-x86.msu * Windows 7 + 2008 R2 Application Compatibility Update (ACU): http://support.microsoft.com/help/974332/ * Windows 7 Application Compatibility List for IT Professionals: http://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=2394 * Windows 7 + 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1): http://support.microsoft.com/help/976932/ File: http://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=5842 * Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE): http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/ * Windows 7 Review: http://www.activewin.com/reviews/software/operating-sys/windows7/ * Windows 7 ISOs: http://www.mydigitallife.info/2009/11/10/windows-7-iso-x86-and-x64-official-direct-download-links-ultimate-professional-and-home-premium/ * Windows NT Backup Restore Utility for Windows 7: http://support.microsoft.com/help/974674/ Hotfix [request links in e-mail]: http://support.microsoft.com/hotfix/KBHotfix.aspx?kbnum=974674&kbln=en-us http://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=18924  Application (IN)Compatibility * Application Compatibility Info, Guides + Tips: To DEP or not to DEP... DisableNXShowUI: http://blogs.technet.com/b/askperf/archive/2008/06/17/to-dep-or-not-to-dep.aspx Script Compatibility Layers in Windows XP: http://support.microsoft.com/help/286705/ Configure "Compatibility" tab: http://www.intrntpirate.com/?p=562 How to Use Windows Application Compatibility Mode (ACM): http://technet.microsoft.com/library/bb456979.aspx How to Use Compatibility Administration tool in Windows 10: http://docs.microsoft.com/windows/deployment/planning/using-the-compatibility-administrator-tool/ How to Use Compatibility Administration tool in Windows 7: http://www.sourcedaddy.com/windows-7/using-the-compatibility-administrator.html http://support.microsoft.com/help/317510/ http://docs.microsoft.com/previous-versions/windows/it-pro/windows-7/cc749034(v=ws.10) http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/windows-and-office/selectively-disable-uac-for-your-trusted-vista-applications/ How to Use Compatibility Administration tool in Windows XP: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/bb456983.aspx Get Rid of UAC Prompts using Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT): http://www.ghacks.net/2010/07/08/get-rid-of-uac-prompts-with-microsofts-application-compatibility-toolkit/ Fix OLd Games using Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT): http://classicgamefixes.wixsite.com/home/act-toolkit/ Create Shim/Fix using Compatibility Administrator tool: http://www.msigeek.com/4823/ Using Program Compatibility Mode in Windows 7: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/10436/using-program-compatibility-mode-in-windows-7/ Use Compatibility Mode to Fix App Problems: http://www.reviversoft.com/blog/2013/01/compatibility-mode/ Using RunAsHighest Fix: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/dd638322.aspx UAC and Application Run Levels: http://www.slickit.ca/2009/05/uac-and-application-run-levels.html How to disable UAC for certain applications: http://web.archive.org/web/20080204172644/http://support.microsoft.com/help/946932 Selectively disable UAC for trusted Vista/newer applications: http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/selectively-disable-uac-for-your-trusted-vista-applications/635 Exclude Programs from Program Compatibility Assistant (PCA): http://support.microsoft.com/help/2545347/ Application Compatibility: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/bb757005.aspx Application Compatibility: Program Compatibility Assistant (PCA): http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/bb756937.aspx Program Compatibility Assistant (PCA) - Part 2: http://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/askperf/2007/10/05/the-program-compatibility-assistant-part-two/ Add/Remove Compatibility Tab from Properties: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/237405-compatibility-tab-add-remove-properties.html * Microsoft Windows 2000 SP4/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7/8/8.1/2012/10/2016 Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT) (English): http://www.microsoft.com/download/details.aspx?id=7352 ACT 5.6 [12.2 MB]: http://download.microsoft.com/download/D/3/3/D33A8F5D-A7E1-4BBE-B04D-7A688785A229/ApplicationCompatibilityToolkitSetup.exe Requires Microsoft .Net Framework Redistributable (NFR) 3.5 (free): http://www.mdgx.com/add.htm#NFR * AppCompatFlags "Layers" Registry REG_SZ (String) values are case insensitive: All Users (system wide): HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AppCompatFlags\Layers Current User (logged on user): HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AppCompatFlags\Layers Enumeration of multiple values allowed on the same line: they must be separated by 1 space (if more than 1). Meaning: http://www.verboon.info/2011/03/running-an-application-as-administrator-or-in-compatibility-mode/ Windows Vista = VISTARTM Windows Vista SP1 = VISTASP1 Windows Vista SP2 = VISTASP2 Windows XP SP3 = WINXPSP3 Windows XP SP2 = WINXPSP2 Windows 2000 = WIN2000 Windows 98/ME = WIN98 Windows 95 = WIN95 Run in 65536 colors (16-bit) = 16BITCOLOR Run in 256 colors (8-bit) = 256COLOR Run in 640x480 screen resolution = 640X480 Disable visual themes = DisableThemes Disable desktop composition = DisableDWM Disable display scaling on high DPI settings = HighDPIAware Run this program as Administrator = RunAsAdmin Enable program to work with SkyDrive = PlaceHolderFiles List of parameters: EveryOne-full (?) 16BITCOLOR 256COLOR 640X480 AlcatelLayer DisableCicero DisableDWM DisableNXHideUI DisableNXShowUI DisableThemes ElevateCreateProcess EnableNXShowUI HighDPIAware International LUA LUACleanUp NT4SP5 PlaceHolderFiles PlayerGetProcAddrExOverride ProfilesSetup RunAsAdmin RunAsInvoker RunAsHighest VISTARTM VISTASP1 VISTASP2 WIN95 WIN98 NT4SP5 WIN2000 WIN7RTM WIN8RTM WINSRV03SP1 WINSRV08SP1 WINXPSP2 WINXPSP3 * Program Compatibility Assistant (PCA) Service: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/4161/disable-program-compatibility-assistant-in-windows-7-and-vista/ Disabled: ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\NET.EXE STOP PcaSvc %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE CONFIG PcaSvc START= demand Enabled: ECHO Y|%windir%\SYSTEM32\NET.EXE START PcaSvc %windir%\SYSTEM32\SC.EXE CONFIG PcaSvc START= auto * APPCOMPAT.REG Registry file optimizes Application Compatibility parameters + availability: -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 ; * Windows 32-bit (x86) + 64-bit (x64): [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\AppCompat] ; http://www.windows-security.org/a9e1f3187a2d9e753e52bc92a558b867/remove-program-compatibility-property-page/ ; http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/237405-compatibility-tab-add-remove-properties.html "DisablePropPage"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/13372c6a0a2d392443dc146ceb94d720/turn-off-application-telemetry/ "AITEnable"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/7be7ad4dce7009d71a3061f872f610e0/turn-off-steps-recorder/ "DisableUAR"=dword:1 ; http://www.windows-security.org/dc93a8ca81b69891762057593d8d2ccd/prevent-access-to-16-bit-applications/ "VDMDisallowed"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/a6c2ac5e5f13a880f6254303a16e20a4/turn-off-application-compatibility-engine/ "DisableEngine"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/6412ea982640d8a1dd2090387e2e5b29/turn-off-program-compatibility-assistant/ "DisablePCA"=dword:1 ; http://www.windows-security.org/36ff6b13efb41d27cc12094bc252b9f3/turn-off-switchback-compatibility-engine/ "SbEnable"=dword:1 ; * Windows 64-bit (x64) only: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\AppCompat] ; http://www.windows-security.org/a9e1f3187a2d9e753e52bc92a558b867/remove-program-compatibility-property-page/ ; http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/237405-compatibility-tab-add-remove-properties.html "DisablePropPage"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/13372c6a0a2d392443dc146ceb94d720/turn-off-application-telemetry/ "AITEnable"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/7be7ad4dce7009d71a3061f872f610e0/turn-off-steps-recorder/ "DisableUAR"=dword:1 ; http://www.windows-security.org/dc93a8ca81b69891762057593d8d2ccd/prevent-access-to-16-bit-applications/ "VDMDisallowed"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/a6c2ac5e5f13a880f6254303a16e20a4/turn-off-application-compatibility-engine/ "DisableEngine"=dword:0 ; http://www.windows-security.org/6412ea982640d8a1dd2090387e2e5b29/turn-off-program-compatibility-assistant/ "DisablePCA"=dword:1 ; http://www.windows-security.org/36ff6b13efb41d27cc12094bc252b9f3/turn-off-switchback-compatibility-engine/ "SbEnable"=dword:1 ; ------End cut & paste here------ Open Notepad or similar/better free(ware) plain text/ASCII editor: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT and save Registry file above as APPCOMPAT.REG . Right-click on APPCOMPAT.REG -> "Run as Administrator" -> answer Yes/OK to all prompts to register its information into your Registry.  Control Panel (CP) + Master Mega (a.k.a. "god") Mode * Wikipedia: Windows Master Control Panel shortcut: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Master_Control_Panel_shortcut * MSDN: Canonical Names of Control Panel Items: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/ee330741.aspx * MSDN: Executing Control Panel Items: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/cc144191.aspx * Windows 7: Inside the Ultimate Control Panel (UCP): http://technet.microsoft.com/magazine/hh706157.aspx * Master "Mega" Mode (all Control Panel items in bulleted list form): - as Folder: @.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C} - as Shortcut: EXPLORER.EXE SHELL:::{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C} Create New Shortcut [.lnk] or New Folder. * Control Panel: - as Folder: @.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D} - as Shortcut: EXPLORER.EXE SHELL:::{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D} Create New Shortcut [.lnk] or New Folder. * Control Panel -> All Control Panel Items -> Personalization -> Window Color and Appearance: EXPLORER.EXE SHELL:::{26EE0668-A00A-44D7-9371-BEB064C98683}\1\::{ED834ED6-4B5A-4bfe-8F11-A626DCB6A921}\pageColorization or: CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.Personalization /page pageColorization Create New Shortcut [.lnk] or New Folder. * Control Panel -> All Control Panel Items -> AutoPlay: EXPLORER.EXE SHELL:::{9C60DE1E-E5FC-40f4-A487-460851A8D915} or: CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.AutoPlay Create New Shortcut [.lnk] or New Folder. * Windows 7 CLSID Key (GUID) Shortcuts: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/110919-clsid-key-list-windows-7-a.html Windows 8/8.1 CLSID Key (GUID) Shortcuts: http://www.eightforums.com/threads/clsid-key-guid-shortcuts-list-for-windows-8.13591/ Windows 10 CLSID Key (GUID) Shortcuts: http://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/3123-clsid-key-guid-shortcuts-list-windows-10-a.html * Tips: http://www.nogeekleftbehind.com/2010/01/16/more-windows-7-god-mode-hacks/ http://tips.vlaurie.com/ http://www.winbeginners.com/ http://www.commandwindows.com/ http://www.vlaurie.com/computers2/winXP.htm http://www.vlaurie.com/computers2/internet.htm * Executing Windows Control Panel Items: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/desktop/cc144191.aspx http://support.microsoft.com/help/192806/ http://social.technet.microsoft.com/wiki/contents/articles/4486.accessing-the-control-panel-via-the-commandline.aspx * Personalization: ****************** Font Size and DPI DpiScaling.exe Screen Resolution CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl,Settings,@Settings Display CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl,Settings,@Settings Themes CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl,Themes,@Themes Screen Saver CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl,screensaver,@screensaver Multi Monitor CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl,Monitor,@Monitor Color Scheme CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.Personalization /page pageColorization Desktop Background CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.Personalization /page pageWallpaper * System: ********* Performance SystemPropertiesPerformance.exe Remote Access SystemPropertiesRemote.exe Computer Name SystemPropertiesComputerName.exe System Protection SystemPropertiesProtection.exe Advanced System Properties SystemPropertiesAdvanced.exe * Programs and Features: ************************ Add/Remove Programs CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.ProgramsAndFeatures Windows Features OptionalFeatures.exe * Regional and Language Options: ******************************** Keyboard CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.RegionalAndLanguageOptions /page /p:keyboard Location CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.RegionalAndLanguageOptions /page /p:location Administrative CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.RegionalAndLanguageOptions /page /p:administrative * Folder: ********* Folder searching RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 2 File associations CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.DefaultPrograms /page pageFileAssoc View RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 7 General RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 0 * Power: ******** Edit current plan settings CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.PowerOptions /page pagePlanSettings System settings CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.PowerOptions /page pageGlobalSettings Create a power plan CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.PowerOptions /page pageCreateNewPlan Advanced Settings CONTROL.EXE powercfg.cpl,,3 * Accessibility (Ease of Access): ********************************* Ease of Access Center CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.EaseOfAccessCenter * Canonical Windows Vista/newer: ******************************** CONTROL.EXE desktop Display Properties CONTROL.EXE color Display Properties Appearance tab CONTROL.EXE date/time Date and Time Properties CONTROL.EXE international Regional and Language Options CONTROL.EXE mouse Mouse Properties CONTROL.EXE keyboard Keyboard Properties CONTROL.EXE printers Printers and Faxes folder CONTROL.EXE fonts Fonts folder * Windows 2000/newer: ********************* CONTROL.EXE folders Folder Options window CONTROL.EXE netware Novell NetWare window (if installed) CONTROL.EXE telephony Phone and Modem Options window CONTROL.EXE admintools Administrative Tools folder CONTROL.EXE schedtasks Scheduled Tasks folder CONTROL.EXE netconnections Network Connections folder CONTROL.EXE infrared Infrared Monitor window (if installed) CONTROL.EXE userpasswords User Accounts window * Control Panel tool Command ****************************************************************************** Accessibility Options CONTROL.EXE access.cpl Add New Hardware CONTROL.EXE sysdm.cpl add new hardware Add/Remove Programs CONTROL.EXE appwiz.cpl Date/Time Properties CONTROL.EXE timedate.cpl Display Properties CONTROL.EXE desk.cpl FindFast CONTROL.EXE findfast.cpl Fonts Folder CONTROL.EXE fonts Internet Properties CONTROL.EXE inetcpl.cpl Joystick Properties CONTROL.EXE joy.cpl Keyboard Properties CONTROL.EXE main.cpl keyboard Microsoft Exchange (Windows Messaging) CONTROL.EXE mlcfg32.cpl Microsoft Mail Post Office CONTROL.EXE wgpocpl.cpl Modem Properties CONTROL.EXE modem.cpl Mouse Properties CONTROL.EXE main.cpl Multimedia Properties CONTROL.EXE mmsys.cpl Network Properties CONTROL.EXE netcpl.cpl Password Properties CONTROL.EXE password.cpl PC Card CONTROL.EXE main.cpl pc card (PCMCIA) Power Management (Windows 95) CONTROL.EXE main.cpl power Power Management (Windows 98) CONTROL.EXE powercfg.cpl Printers Folder CONTROL.EXE printers Regional Settings CONTROL.EXE intl.cpl Scanners and Cameras CONTROL.EXE sticpl.cpl Sound Properties CONTROL.EXE mmsys.cpl sounds System Properties CONTROL.EXE sysdm.cpl * Using RUNDLL32.EXE in Windows Vista, 2008, 7, 2012, 8, 8.1, 10 + 2016: http://www.windows7tips.com/rundll32-vista-windows-7.html http://www.robvanderwoude.com/rundll.php http://www.vlaurie.com/computers2/Articles/control.htm http://best-windows.vlaurie.com/rundll32.html http://www.commandwindows.com/windows7-commands.htm http://www.commandwindows.com/command3.htm http://www.commandwindows.com/runline.htm Syntax: RUNDLL32.EXE , Commands can be used in shortcuts, BATch files, scripts, etc. RUNDLL32.EXE Commands: Add/Remove/Uninstall Programs + Features: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL appwiz.cpl,,0 Content Advisor: RUNDLL32.EXE msrating.dll,RatingSetupUI Control Panel: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL Delete Temporary Internet Files (TIF): RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 8 Delete Cookies: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 2 Delete History: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 1 Delete Form Data: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 16 Delete Passwords: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 32 Delete All: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 255 Delete All + Files and Settings stored by Add-ons: RUNDLL32.EXE InetCpl.cpl,ClearMyTracksByProcess 4351 Date and Time Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL timedate.cpl Ease of Access Center: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL access.cpl Display Settings: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL access.cpl,,3 Device Manager: RUNDLL32.EXE DEVMGR.DLL,DeviceManager_Execute Folder Options - General: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 0 Folder Options - File Types: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_Options 2 Folder Options - Search: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 2 Folder Options - View: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 7 Forgotten Password Wizard: RUNDLL32.EXE KEYMGR.DLL,PRShowSaveWizardExW Hibernate: RUNDLL32.EXE POWRPROF.DLL,SetSuspendState Internet Explorer Internet Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL Inetcpl.cpl,,6 Keyboard Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL main.cpl @1 Lock Screen: RUNDLL32.EXE USER32.DLL,LockWorkStation Swap Left and Right Mouse Buttons: RUNDLL32.EXE USER32.DLL,SwapMouseButton Mouse Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL main.cpl @0,0 Map Network Drive Wizard: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL Connect Network Connections: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL ncpa.cpl Organize IE Favorites: RUNDLL32.EXE SHDOCVW.DLL,DoOrganizeFavDlg Open With: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,OpenAs_RunDLL Any_File-name.ext Printer User Interface: RUNDLL32.EXE PRINTUI.DLL,PrintUIEntry /? Printer Management Folder: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL PrintersFolder Power Options: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL powercfg.cpl Process Idle Tasks: RUNDLL32.EXE ADVAPI32.DLL,ProcessIdleTasks Regional and Language Options: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL Intl.cpl,,0 Usernames and Passwords: RUNDLL32.EXE KEYMGR.DLL,KRShowKeyMgr Safely Remove Hardware: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL HotPlug.dll Sound Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL Mmsys.cpl,,0 System Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL Sysdm.cpl,,3 System Properties - Advanced: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL sysdm.cpl,,4 System Properties - Automatic Updates: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL sysdm.cpl,,5 Taskbar Properties: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Options_RunDLL 1 User Accounts: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL nusrmgr.cpl Unplug/Eject Hardware: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL hotplug.dll Windows Security Center (WSC): RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL wscui.cpl Windows - About: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,ShellAboutW Windows Fonts Installation Folder: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL FontsFolder Windows Firewall: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL firewall.cpl Wireless Network Setup: RUNDLL32.EXE SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL NetSetup.cpl,@0,WNSW * Administrative Tools: Administrative Tools = CONTROL.EXE admintools Authorization Manager = azman.msc Component Services = dcomcnfg.exe Certificate Manager = certmgr.msc Direct X Troubleshooter = dxdiag.exe Display Languages = lpksetup.exe ODBC Data Source Administrator = odbcad32.exe File Signature Verification Tool = sigverif.exe Group Policy Editor = gpedit.msc Add Hardware Wizard = hdwwiz.cpl iSCSI Initiator = iscsicpl.exe Iexpress Wizard = iexpress.exe Local Security Settings = secpol.msc Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool = msdt.exe Microsoft Management Console = mmc.exe Print management = printmanagement.msc Printer User Interface = printui.exe Problems Steps Recorder = psr.exe People Near Me = p2phost.exe Registry Editor = regedit.exe or regedt32.exe Resoure Monitor = resmon.exe System Configuration Utility = msconfig.exe Resultant Set of Policy = rsop.msc SQL Server Client Configuration = cliconfg.exe Task Manager = taskmgr.exe Trusted Platform Module = tpm.msc TPM Security Hardware = TpmInit.exe Windows Remote Assistance = msra.exe Windows Share Folder Creation Wizard = shrpubw.exe Windows Standalong Update Manager = wusa.exe Windows System Security Tool = syskey.exe Windows Script Host Settings = wscript.exe Windows Version = winver.exe Windows Firewall with Advanced Security = wf.msc Windows Memory Diagnostic = MdSched.exe Windows Malicious Removal Tool = mrt.exe * Computer Management: Computer Management = compmgmt.msc or CompMgmtLauncher Task Scheduler = CONTROL.EXE schedtasks or taskschd.msc Event Viewer = eventvwr.msc Shared Folders/MMC = fsmgmt.msc Local Users and Groups = lusrmgr.msc Performance Monitor = perfmon.msc Device Manager = devmgmt.msc Disk Management = diskmgmt.msc Services = services.msc Windows Management Infrastructure = wmimgmt.msc * Control Panel: Control Panel = CONTROL.EXE Action Center = wscui.cpl AutoPlay = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.AutoPlay Backup and Restore = sdclt.exe Create a System Repair disc = recdisc.exe BDE Administrator = bdeadmin.cpl Color Management = colorcpl.exe Credential Manager = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.CredentialManager Credential Manager Stored User Names and Passwords = credwiz.exe Date and Time Properties = timedate.cpl Default Programs = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.DefaultPrograms Set Program Access and Computer Defaults = CONTROL.EXE appwiz.cpl,,3 or ComputerDefaults Devices and Printers = CONTROL.EXE Printers Devices and Printers Add a Device = DevicePairingWizard.exe Display = dpiscaling.exe Screen Resolution = desk.cpl Display Color Calibration = dccw.exe Cleartype Text Tuner = cttune.exe Folders Options = CONTROL.EXE Folders Fonts = CONTROL.EXE Fonts Getting Started = GettingStarted.exe HomeGroup = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.HomeGroup Indexing Options = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.IndexingOptions Internet Properties = inetcpl.cpl Keyboard = CONTROL.EXE keyboard Location and Other Sensors = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.LocationandOtherSensors Location Notifications = LocationNotifications.exe Mouse = CONTROL.EXE mouse or main.cpl Network and Sharing Center = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.NetworkandSharingCenter Network Connections = CONTROL.EXE NetConnections or ncpa.cpl Notification Area Icons = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.NotificationAreaIcons Parental Controls = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.ParentalControls Performance Information = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.PerformanceInformationandTools Personalization = CONTROL.EXE Desktop Windows Color and Appearance = CONTROL.EXE Color Phone and Modem Options = telephon.cpl Power Configuration = powercfg.cpl Programs and Features = appwiz.cpl or CONTROL.EXE appwiz.cpl Optional Features Manager = optionalfeatures or CONTROL.EXE appwiz.cpl,,2 Recovery = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.Recovery Regional and Language = intl.cpl RemoteApp = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.RemoteAppandDesktopConnections Sound = mmsys.cpl Volume Mixer = sndvol.exe System Properties = sysdm.cpl or WinKey + Pause/Break SP ComputerName Tab = SystemPropertiesComputerName.exe SP Hardware Tab = SystemPropertiesHardware.exe SP Advanced Tab = SystemPropertiesAdvanced.exe SP Performance = SystemPropertiesPerformance.exe SP Data Execution Prevention = SystemPropertiesDataExecutionPrevention.exe SP Protection Tab = SystemPropertiesProtection.exe SP Remote Tab = SystemPropertiesRemote.exe Windows Activation = slui.exe Windows Activation Phone Numbers = slui.exe 4 Taskbar and Start Menu = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.TaskbarandStartMenu Troubleshooting = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.Troubleshooting User Accounts = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.UserAccounts User Account Control Settings = UserAccountControlSettings.exe User Accounts Windows 2000/domain version = netplwiz or CONTROL.EXE Userpasswords2 Encryption File System = rekeywiz.exe Windows Anytime Upgrade = WindowsAnytimeUpgradeui.exe Windows Anytime Upgrade Results = WindowsAnytimeUpgradeResults.exe Windows CardSpace = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.cardspace Windows Firewall = firewall.cpl WindowsSideshow = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.WindowsSideshow Windows Update = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.WindowsUpdate (CONTROL.EXE update) (wuapp.exe) Windows Update -> Change Settings = CONTROL.EXE /name Microsoft.WindowsUpdate /page pageSettings * Accessories: Calculator = calc.exe Command Prompt = cmd.exe Connect to a Network Projector = NetProj.exe Presentation Settings = PresentationSettings.exe Connect to a Projector = displayswitch.exe or WinKey + P Notepad = notepad.exe Microsoft Paint = mspaint.exe Remote Desktop Connection = mstsc.exe Run = WinKey + R Snipping Tool = snippingtool.exe Sound Recorder = soundrecorder.exe Sticky Note = StikyNot.exe Sync Center = mobsync.exe Windows Mobility Center [Laptops/Portables ONLY] = mblctr.exe or WinKey + X Windows Explorer = explorer.exe or WinKey + E Wordpad = write.exe or wordpad.exe Ease of Access Center = utilman.exe or WinKey + U Magnifier = magnify.exe Narrator = Narrator.exe On Screen Keyboard = osk.exe Private Character Editor = eudcedit.exe Character Map = charmap.exe Ditilizer Calibration Tool = tabcal.exe Disk Cleanup Utility = cleanmgr.exe Defragment User Interface = dfrgui.exe Internet Explorer (IE) = iexplore.exe Rating System = ticrf.exe Internet Explorer (No Add-ons) = iexplore.exe -extoff Internet Explorer (No Home) = iexplore.exe about:blank Phone Dialer = dialer.exe Printer Migration = PrintBrmUi.exe System Information = msinfo32.exe System Restore = rstrui.exe Windows Easy Transfer = migwiz.exe Windows Media Player = wmplayer.exe Windows Media Player DVD Player = dvdplay.exe Windows Fax and Scan Cover Page Editor = fxscover.exe Windows Fax and Scan = wfs.exe Windows Image Acquisition = wiaacmgr.exe Windows PowerShell ISE = powershell_ise.exe Windows PowerShell = powershell.exe XPS Viewer = xpsrchvw.exe * Other Shell/User Folders: Open Documents folder = Documents Open Pictures folder = Pictures Open Music folder = Music Open Videos folder = Videos Open Downloads folder = Downloads Open Favorites folder = Favorites Open Recent folder = Recent Logs out of Windows = Logoff Locks User Account = WinKey + L * Shell Commands in Windows 7/8/8.1/10: http://www.ss64.com/nt/shell.html Shell Command Description ****************************************************************************** shell:AccountPictures Account Pictures shell:AddNewProgramsFolder Get Programs Control panel item shell:Administrative Tools Administrative Tools shell:AppData C:\Users\%UserName%\Appdata\Roaming folder - %appdata% shell:Application Shortcuts Folder for all Modern apps shortcuts shell:AppsFolder Virtual folder for all installed Modern apps shell:AppUpdatesFolder Installed Updates Control panel item shell:Cache IE Cache folder [Temporary Internet Files (TIF)] shell:CD Burning Temporary Burn Folder shell:ChangeRemoveProgramsFolder Uninstall program Control panel item shell:Common Administrative Tools Administrative Tools folder for all users shell:Common AppData C:\ProgramData - %ProgramData% shell:Common Desktop Public Desktop - same for all users shell:Common Documents Public Documents shell:Common Programs All Users Programs - part of Start menu + used by Start screen shell:Common Start Menu All Users Start Menu folder shell:Common Startup Startup folder - all users shell:Common Templates Startup folder - new documents, templates (Microsoft Office) shell:CommonDownloads Public Downloads shell:CommonMusic Public Music shell:CommonPictures Public Pictures shell:CommonRingtones Public Ringtones folder shell:CommonVideo Public Videos shell:ConflictFolder Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Sync Center\Conflicts item shell:ConnectionsFolder Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Network Connections item shell:Contacts Contacts folder - Address book shell:ControlPanelFolder Control Panel shell:Cookies IE Cookies folder shell:CredentialManager C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Credentials shell:CryptoKeys C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Crypto shell:CSCFolder Not valid in Windows 7/8/8.1 - Access to Offline files item shell:Desktop Desktop - different for each user shell:Device Metadata Store C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\DeviceMetadataStore shell:DocumentsLibrary Documents Library shell:Downloads Downloads folder shell:DpapiKeys C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Protect shell:Favorites Favorites shell:Fonts C:\Windows\Fonts shell:Games Games Explorer item shell:GameTasks C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\GameExplorer shell:History C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\History - IE browsing history shell:HomeGroupCurrentUserFolder Home Group folder for current user shell:HomeGroupFolder Home Group root folder shell:ImplicitAppShortcuts C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\ImplicitAppShortcuts shell:InternetFolder Starts Internet Explorer (IE) shell:Libraries Libraries shell:Links Favorites folder - Explorer menu shell:Local AppData C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Local shell:LocalAppDataLow C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\LocalLow shell:LocalizedResourcesDir Not valid in Windows 8/8.1 shell:MAPIFolder Microsoft Outlook folder shell:MusicLibrary Music Library folder shell:My Music My Music folder (not "Library" folder) shell:My Pictures My Pictures folder (not "Library" folder) shell:My Video My Videos folder (not "Library" folder) shell:MyComputerFolder Computer/Drives view shell:NetHood C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Network Shortcuts shell:NetworkPlacesFolder Network Places folder - Computers and Devices on your network shell:OEM Links Does nothing in Windows 8 Retail edition, maybe works in Windows 8 OEM editions [?] shell:Original Images Not functional in Windows 8/8.1 shell:Personal My Documents folder (not "Library" folder) shell:PhotoAlbums Saved slideshows - Not implemented yet shell:PicturesLibrary Pictures Library shell:Playlists Stored WMP Playlists shell:PrintersFolder Classic "Printers" folder (not "Devices and Printers") shell:PrintHood C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Printer Shortcuts shell:Profile User profile folder - %UserProfile% = C:\Users\%UserName% shell:ProgramFiles C:\Program Files - %ProgramFiles% shell:ProgramFilesCommon C:\Program Files\Common Files shell:ProgramFilesCommonX86 C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files - Windows 64-bit (x64) only shell:ProgramFilesX86 C:\Program Files (x86) - Windows 64-bit (x64) only shell:Programs C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs - Per user Start Menu Programs folder shell:Public C:\Users\Public shell:PublicAccountPictures C:\Users\Public\AccountPictures shell:PublicGameTasks C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\GameExplorer shell:PublicLibraries C:\Users\Public\Libraries shell:Quick Launch C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch shell:Recent Recent Items folder - Recent Documents shell:RecordedTVLibrary Recorded TV Library shell:RecycleBinFolder Recycle Bin shell:ResourceDir C:\Windows\Resources where visual styles are stored shell:Ringtones C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Ringtones shell:Roamed Tile Images Not implemented yet - reserved for future use shell:Roaming Tiles C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\RoamingTiles shell:SavedGames Saved Games shell:Screenshots The folder for Win+Print Screen screenshots shell:Searches Saved Searches shell:SearchHomeFolder Windows Search UI shell:SendTo Folder with items visible in "Send to" menu shell:Start Menu C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu - Per-user Start Menu folder shell:Startup Per-user Startup folder shell:SyncCenterFolder Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Sync Center shell:SyncResultsFolder Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Sync Center\Sync Results shell:SyncSetupFolder Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Sync Center\Sync Setup shell:System C:\Windows\System32 - %windir%\System32 shell:SystemCertificates C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\SystemCertificates shell:SystemX86 C:\Windows\SysWOW64 - %windir%\SysWOW64 - Windows 64-bit (x64) only shell:Templates C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Templates shell:User Pinned C:\Users\%UserName%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned - Pinned items for Taskbar and Start screen shell:UserProfiles C:\Users - Users profiles main folder shell:UserProgramFiles Not implemented yet - reserved for future use shell:UserProgramFilesCommon same as above shell:UsersFilesFolder Current user profile shell:UsersLibrariesFolder Libraries shell:VideosLibrary Videos Library shell:Windows C:\Windows - %windir%  Public Root DNS Servers * Public Root DNS Servers: http://www.lifewire.com/free-and-public-dns-servers-2626062 http://twitgoo.com/best-free-dns-servers/ http://public-dns.info/ http://public-dns.info/nameserver/us.html http://servers.opennicproject.org/ http://www.publicdns.xyz/ http://www.tech-faq.com/public-dns-servers.html http://www.getdriver.com/how-to/2498/free-fast-public-dns-server-faster-browsing-experience.html http://www.zerodollartips.com/best-public-dns-servers-fastest-dns-servers/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root_name_server * Fix DNS by using Public Root DNS Servers: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/networking/fixing-dns-woes-for-comcast-users-and-everyone-else/382 * Fastest + closest DNS Servers to your location -> run DNSBench -> click Benchmark button: http://www.grc.com/dns/benchmark.htm File: http://www.grc.com/files/DNSBench.exe * Complete Internet Repair (CIR) suite 32-bit + 64-bit tool includes DNS lookup + repair: http://www.rizonesoft.com/downloads/complete-internet-repair/ CIR Portable: http://www.rizonesoft.com/genesis/ComIntRep/ComIntRep_3852.zip File: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/complete_internet_repair.html * NameServer REG_SZ Registry values: http://technet.microsoft.com/library/cc978468.aspx Customize IPv4 root DNS servers in the Registry (example using default home computer internet connection name: "Local Area Connection" and Cloudflare public root DNS servers): Open Notepad or similar/better free(ware) plain text/ASCII editor: http://www.mdgx.com/toy.htm#TXT and save BATch file below as Root_DNS_Servers.bat . Right-click on Root_DNS_Servers.bat -> "Run as Administrator" -> reboot. -----Begin cut & paste here----- @ECHO OFF IF NOT "%OS%"=="Windows_NT" GOTO END :: Cloudflare public root DNS servers: :: * Windows 7/7 SP1 only: %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface ip set dns "Local Area Connection" static 1.1.1.1 %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface ip add dns "Local Area Connection" 1.0.0.1 index=2 :: * Windows 8/8.1/2012/10/2016 only: :: %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface ipv4 set dns "Local Area Connection" static 1.1.1.1 :: %windir%\SYSTEM32\NETSH.EXE interface ipv4 add dns "Local Area Connection" 1.0.0.1 index=2 :END EXIT ------End cut & paste here------ * Windows 7 setup: Start menu -> Control Panel -> Network and Sharing Center -> View network status and tasks -> View Active networks -> click item to right of Connections -> "your Network Connection name" (typical examples): "Ethernet" (direct cable modem connection) or "Local Area Connection" (direct router connection) or "Wi-Fi" (Wi-Fi connection) -> click Connection Status General tab -> click Properties -> click Connection Properties General tab -> scroll down -> select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) -> click Properties -> click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) Properties General tab -> in lower section select (x) Use following DNS server addresses -> type desired IP addresses (example using Cloudflare DNS servers): Preferred (1st) DNS Server: 1.1.1.1 Alternate (2nd) DNS Server: 1.0.0.1 Click OK -> exit all dialogs/windows -> reboot. * Windows XP setup: Start menu -> Control Panel -> Network Connections -> select current connection -> "your Network Connection name" (typical examples): "LAN" (Local Area Network connection) or "Wireless" (Wi-Fi connection) -> click Connection Status General tab -> click Properties -> click Connection Properties General tab -> scroll down -> select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) -> click Properties -> click Internet Protocol Version (TCP/IP) Properties General tab -> in lower section select (x) Use following DNS server addresses -> type desired IP addresses (example using Cloudflare DNS servers): Preferred (1st) DNS Server: 1.1.1.1 Alternate (2nd) DNS Server: 1.0.0.1 Click OK -> exit all dialogs/windows -> reboot. * Router Setup: Type router IP address in your web browser (example): http://192.168.1.1/ Type User name + password (if any) to log in into router interface (example): router Menu -> DNS Server settings: -> Status -> router -> Basic Setup -> type Clouflare DNS servers IP addresses (example): Primary Static DNS Server (DNS1): 1.1.1.1 Secondary Static DNS Server (DNS2): 1.0.0.1 router Basic Setup Help -> Save changes -> reset router. * Router IP: Router IP address in Windows NTx OSes: Start -> Run... -> type CMD -> click OK -> type: IPCONFIG press Enter -> Default Gateway IP address -> same as router IP address. * Router users: MUST set DNS servers in Windows (PC) to router IP address: 192.168.1.1 Router caching DNS server will redirect query to currently configured (default) ISP routers or assigned (default if not changed) public DNS servers. Router static DNS IP addresses should be selected from outside DHCP range (example) to avoid conflicts: 192.168.1.2 - 192.168.1.9 * Upgrade WRT54G2 router to DD-WRT Firmware: http://blogs.gurulabs.com/mike/2009/03/upgrading-a-cisco-linksys-wrt5.html WRT54G2 Set up web server behind router: http://sanzon.wordpress.com/2008/04/04/setting-up-web-server-behind-router-wrt54g2/ WRT54G2 Static IP config and reconfig: http://sanzon.wordpress.com/2008/04/09/wrt54g2-static-ip-configuration-and-reconfiguring-router/ WRT54G2 Assign Static IP(s): http://www.superuser.com/questions/8574/ * Cloudflare public root DNS servers: http://www.cloudflare.com/learning/dns/what-is-1.1.1.1/ 1.1.1.1 1.0.0.1 * Quad9 public root DNS servers: http://www.quad9.net/faq/ 9.9.9.9 149.112.112.112 * Level3 public root DNS servers: http://www.dnsserverlist.org/ 4.2.2.1 4.2.2.2 4.2.2.3 4.2.2.4 4.2.2.5 4.2.2.6 Level3 alternate public root DNS servers: 209.244.0.3 209.244.0.4 * Comodo Secure DNS public root DNS servers: http://www.comodo.com/secure-dns/ 8.26.56.26 8.20.247.20 * Advantage DNS (UltraDNS) public root DNS servers: http://www.neustar.biz/security/dns-services 156.154.70.1 156.154.71.1 * Verisign public root DNS servers: http://www.verisign.com/en_US/security-services/public-dns/ 64.6.64.6 64.6.65.6 * OpenDNS public root DNS servers: http://www.opendns.com/setupguide/ 208.67.222.222 208.67.222.220 Install Guide: http://use.opendns.com/ * OpenNIC public root DNS servers: http://www.opennic.org/ 52.173.73.208 45.56.117.118 * Open public root DNS servers: http://servers.opennicproject.org/ 68.15.165.12 [ns1.la.us.opennic.glue] 63.226.12.96 [ns1.phx.us.opennic.glue] 64.151.103.120 [ns1.sfo.us.opennic.glue] 216.87.84.209 [ns1.co.us.opennic.glue] * Cisco public root DNS servers: http://docs.umbrella.com/deployment-umbrella/docs/point-your-dns-to-cisco/ 208.67.222.222 208.67.220.220 Cisco alternate public root DNS servers: 128.107.241.185 192.135.250.69 * Google public root DNS servers: http://developers.google.com/speed/public-dns/ 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4 Install Guide: http://developers.google.com/speed/public-dns/docs/using/ * Norton public root DNS servers: http://dns.norton.com/ 198.153.192.40 198.153.194.40 Norton ConnectSafe public root DNS servers: http://dns.norton.com/dnsweb/homePage.do Norton ConnectSafe Home Users: http://dns.norton.com/dnsweb/dnsForHome.do Norton ConnectSafe FAQ: http://dns.norton.com/dnsweb/faq.do Norton ConnectSafe Network Map: http://dns.norton.com/dnsweb/faq.do#filtering_policies Norton DNS Status: http://status.nortondns.com/ Norton DNS Servers: http://wiki.hidemyass.com/NortonDNS Norton ConnectSafe: Configure Router: http://dns.norton.com/dnsweb/huConfigureRouter.do When done -> Test Norton ConnectSafe DNS servers: http://setup.nortondns.com/ Norton recursive public root DNS servers: 198.153.192.1 198.153.194.1 Norton DNS Servers: http://wiki.hidemyass.com/NortonDNS Norton DNS Install: http://www.wilderssecurity.com/showthread.php?p=1999221  Chrom(ium), Firefox + IE Web Browsers Links, Guides + Tweaks * MDGx Internet Power Toys: http://www.mdgx.com/nettoys.htm * MDGx Firewalls, Anti-Spyware + Internet Monitors: http://www.mdgx.com/fw.htm * Internet Explorer (IE) 9/10/11/newer Block Tracking (Geolocation Detection) + Automatic Upgrade: http://unlockforus.blogspot.com/2012/09/do-not-allow-websites-to-get-your.html http://support.microsoft.com/help/2843950/ http://www.itninja.com/question/ie10-turn-off-auto-updates/ -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Geolocation] "BlockAllWebsites"=dword:1 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main] "EnableAutoUpgrade"=dword:0 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main] "EnableAutoUpgrade"=dword:0 ; ------End cut & paste here------ * Disable Internet Explorer (IE) Security Check: http://www.windows-security.org/65c2e8edd3108cdb6fc985493bb2fa38/turn-off-the-security-settings-check-feature/ -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Security] "DisableSecuritySettingsCheck"=dword:1 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Security] "DisableSecuritySettingsCheck"=dword:1 ; ------End cut & paste here------ * MSKB: Attachment Manager: http://support.microsoft.com/help/883260/ Windows 7: Open File -> Security Warning -> Unblock File: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/124367-open-file-security-warning-unblock-file.html Windows 7: Open File Security Warning - Enable or Disable: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/182353-open-file-security-warning-enable-disable.html Windows 7: Open File -> Security Warning -> Allow or Prevent to Unblock File: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/124427-open-file-security-warning-allow-prevent-unblock-file.html -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Attachments] "ScanWithAntiVirus"=dword:1 "SaveZoneInformation"=dword:1 "HideZoneInfoOnProperties"=- [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Attachments] "ScanWithAntiVirus"=dword:1 "SaveZoneInformation"=dword:1 "HideZoneInfoOnProperties"=- ; ------End cut & paste here------ * Create "Local Area Network Connection Status" Shortcut in Windows 7/8: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/12421-local-area-connection-status-create-shortcut.html * MSKB: Configure IPv6 for advanced users: http://support.microsoft.com/help/929852/ * Lockdown Windows: Customize/Disable Network/Internet + Security Settings: http://forums.techguy.org/threads/locking-down-windows.829647/ * Chromium/Chrome ***************** MDGx: Internet Power Toys: Chromium + Chrome: http://www.mdgx.com/nettoys.htm#CHR Chromium Raw Build Snapshot [+/- UNSTABLE!]: http://download-chromium.appspot.com/ X-Chromium Portable: http://www.winpenpack.com/en/download.php?view.1082 File: http://sourceforge.net/projects/winpenpack/files/X-Chromium/releases/ http://www.winpenpack.com/en/request.php?1082 Chromium Portable: http://sourceforge.net/projects/crportable/ Chromium Portable ALL Files: http://sourceforge.net/projects/crportable/files/ Chromium Portable: http://www.thumbapps.org/2015/06/Chromium-browser-portable-32-64-bit.html File: http://sourceforge.net/projects/thumbapps/files/Internet/Chromium/ Chromium Precompiled EXEcutable (Portable ZIP) 64-bit + 32-bit: http://chromium.woolyss.com/ http://download-chromium.appspot.com/ http://getchromium.wasil.org/ http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/chromium.html Allow Flash in Chrom(ium): http://community.spiceworks.com/topic/1971514/ Chrom(ium) Group Policy Templates (ADML + ADM): http://www.chromium.org/administrators/policy-templates/ File: http://dl.google.com/dl/edgedl/chrome/policy/policy_templates.zip Chrom(ium) Group Policy Administrative Templates Catalog: http://getadmx.com/?Category=Chrome Install + Tweak Chrom(ium) Group Policies: http://www.chromium.org/administrators/windows-quick-start/ Import + tweak ADM(L) policies: Start -> Run... -> GPEdit.msc -> Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> right-click -> Add/Remove Templates -> browse to chrome.adm(l) (example): C:\PORT\CHROME\chrome.adml -> Close button -> Administrative Templates folder -> Google folder -> Chrome folder -> double-click -> tweak desired policies. Disable Flash Out of Date Notice: AllowOutdatedPlugins: http://getadmx.com/?Category=Chrome&Policy=Google.Policies.Chrome::AllowOutdatedPlugins http://getadmx.com/?Category=Chrome&Policy=Google.Policies.Chrome::DefaultPluginsSetting http://www.chromium.org/administrators/policy-list-3#RunAllFlashInAllowMode -----Begin cut & paste here----- REGEDIT4 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Google\Chrome] "AllowOutdatedPlugins"=dword:1 "RunAllFlashInAllowMode"=dword:1 "DefaultPluginsSetting"=dword:1 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Google\Chrome] "AllowOutdatedPlugins"=dword:1 "RunAllFlashInAllowMode"=dword:1 "DefaultPluginsSetting"=dword:1 ; ------End cut & paste here------ Add parameter to ALL Chrome/Chromium command lines: CHROME.EXE --allow-outdated-plugins * Export Chrome/Chromium passwords to CSV file: 1. Chrome/Chromium -> chrome://flags/#PasswordForceSaving -> Force-saving of passwords -> Enabled -> RELAUNCH NOW. 2. Chrome/Chromium -> chrome://flags/#PasswordImport -> Password Import -> Enabled -> RELAUNCH NOW. 3. Chrome/Chromium -> chrome://settings/passwords -> Saved Passwords -> vertical dotted line -> Export Passwords... -> confirm EXPORT PASSWORDS... -> desired folder -> Save -> Yes (overwrite). * Import Chrome/Chromium passwords from saved CSV file: Chrome/Chromium -> chrome://settings/passwords -> Saved Passwords -> dotted line -> Import -> saved CSV folder -> Open. Force Chrome/Chromium to save passwords -> create new Bookmark in Bookmark Bar: javascript:(function(){var e=document.querySelectorAll("input[autocomplete=off]");for(var i=0;i