Windows 7 needs to run in a predictable manner so you don’t pull your hair out. The operating system is the program in charge on your computer and if it is running rampant and out of your control, all yell can and likely will break loose.
It appears Windows 7 has realized this important point and has provided two locations to help you keep things running correctly. There is the Action Center and Troubleshooting window that contains all sorts of troubleshooting tools.
The Action Center
The Action Center window displays a list of pending problems, situations and potential disasters that might be looming. The first indication of the Action Center existence is its notification icon. This icon looks like a tiny flag and is probably a thoughtful symbol. Raising a flag that something is about to run amuck. Clicking the icon displays a pop-up list of items that need attention.
To visit the Action Center window:
- Open the Control Panel window
- Click on Review Your Computers Status which is found under the System and Security heading.
When something requires serious attention the Action Center notification icon turns red. Click on the icon to see what’s up. Or, more appropriately, what’s down.
The Troubleshooting Window
Troubleshooting Windows 7 has a new window for aiding you in diagnosing problems and learning how to fix them. To get to the Troubleshooting window open the Control Panel and click on the link Find and Fix Problems found under the System and Security heading.
The Troubleshooting window is great but it’s not a treasure of secret and unobtainable solutions in Windows 7. Most of the options presented in the Troubleshooting window can be accessed from other parts of Windows usually by right-clicking an item and choosing the Troubleshoot command.
Getting the infamous “blue screen” used to be most frustrating event previous Versions would provide. Many a Windows enthusiast would curse and use non-sanctioned sign language to display in earnest the moment of their discontent.
Windows 7 has made an effort to appease these feelings of “ I hate Windows. I would get a Mac in a moment if they cost the same.” Windows 7 is better than it used to be so make sure you know how to use the Action Center and Troubleshooting window to make potential hair pullers less likely to happen.