WHAT IS WINDOWS OS

Microsoft Windows, commonly referred to as Windows, is a group of several proprietary graphical operating system families, all of which are developed and marketed by Microsoft. Each family caters to a certain sector of the computing industry.

Editions of Windows

Starting with Windows XP, Microsoft has published various editions of Windows. Each of these Windows editions has the same core operating system, but some editions have additional features, at an additional cost.

The two most common editions of Windows for home computers are Windows Home and Windows Professional.

Windows Home

Windows Home (also called Win Home) is the basic edition of Windows. It provides all the fundamental functions of Windows, such as connecting to the Internet, browsing the web, watching videos, using office software, and playing video games. It is the least expensive edition of Windows, and it comes preinstalled on many new computers.

Windows Pro

Windows Professional (also called Windows Pro, or Win Pro) is an enhanced Windows edition, for power users, and small to medium sized businesses. It includes all the features of Windows Home, plus the following:

• Remote desktop – allows you to remotely control another Windows computer connected to the Internet.
• Bitlocker – Microsoft’s integrated file encryption
• Trusted Boot – provides encryption of the boot loader, protecting the computer against rootkits
• Hyper-V – a Windows hypervisor for running virtual machines equivalent to third-party software, such as VirtualBox.
• Windows Sandbox – provides a lightweight, sandboxed Windows 10 instance. You can use this isolated “Windows within Windows” environment to safely run suspicious or untrusted software. Windows Sandbox requires a Windows Insider build of Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise.
• Group policy management – Administrators can define group policies for managing multiple Windows users in a business or organization.
• Support for more than 128  GB of RAM
• Greater Windows update installation options, including more flexible scheduling and postponement for up to 35 days.

Business editions

Windows Professional for Workstations and Windows Enterprise provide advanced features for professional studios and large businesses. For more information, refer to the side-by-side comparison in the official microsoft windows business edition comparism chart

This guide shows you how to fix a corrupted registry for the following Windows versions: Windows , 7, 8, 8.1, or 10.

Best Features of Windows Operating System

1. Speed

Even aside from incompatibilities and other issues that many people had with Vista, one of the most straightforward was speed – it just felt too sluggish compared to XP, even on pumped up hardware. Windows 7 brings a more responsive and sprightly feel and Microsoft has spent a lot of time and effort getting the Start Menu response just right.

Microsoft has also recognized the need for improved desktop responsiveness, which gives the impression that the computer is responding to the user and that they are in control – something that was often lacking with Vista.

You can also expect faster boot times. And the boot sequence is now not only prettier than it was with Vista, but it’s speedier too.

2. Compatibility

In simple terms, compatibility on Windows 7 will be far better than it was with Vista. Many programs that individuals and companies used on Windows XP did not work immediately and required updates, but with Windows 7 almost all applications that work on Vista should still run.

3. Lower Hardware Requirements

Vista gained a reputation for making even the beefiest hardware look rather ordinary. Windows 7, however, will run well on lower end hardware, making the transition from Window XP less painful.

Microsoft is even pushing Windows 7 for netbooks. This could provide a modern replacement for Windows XP, which has found a new lease of life as the OS of choice on netbooks, supplanting Linux. The downside is that Windows 7 Starter Edition, as it will be called, will be limited to only three applications running at the same time.

4. Search and Organization

One of the best things about Windows 7 is the improved search tool, which now rivals Mac OS X’s Spotlight to be able to find what you need quickly and easily. For example, typing ‘mouse’ will bring up the mouse option within the control panel or typing a word will display it and split it up neatly into files, folders and applications.

Also introduced is the concept of Libraries, which takes the ‘My Documents’ concept a stage further. The various Libraries, such as Documents and Pictures, will watch multiple locations which you can add yourself, so you don’t have to keep everything in one place.

5. Safety and Security

New security features in Windows include two new authentication methods tailored towards touchscreens (PINs and picture passwords), the addition of antivirus capabilities to Windows Defender (bringing it in parity with Microsoft Security Essentials) Smart Screen filtering integrated into Windows, and support for the “Secure Boot” functionality on UEFI systems to protect against malware infecting the boot process. Family Safety offers Parental controls, which allows parents to monitor and manage their children’s activities on a device with activity reports and safety controls. Windows 8 also provides integrated system recovery through the new “Refresh” and “Reset” functions, including system recovery from USB drive. Windows 8’s first security patches would be released on November 13, 2012; it would contain three fixes deemed “critical” by the company.

6. Interface and Desktop

Windows introduces significant changes to the operating system’s user interface, many of which are aimed at improving its experience on tablet computers and other touchscreen devices. The new user interface is based on Microsoft’s Metro design language, and uses a Start screen similar to that of Windows Phone as the primary means of launching applications. The Start screen displays a customizable array of tiles linking to various apps and desktop programs, some of which can display constantly updated information and content through “live tiles”. As a form of multitasking, apps can be snapped to the side of a screen. Alongside the traditional Control Panel, a new simplified and touch-optimized settings app known as “PC Settings” is used for basic configuration and user settings. It does not include many of the advanced options still accessible from the normal Control Panel.

Microsoft Windows 8.1

7. Taskbar/Start menu

At first glance, the task bar looks like nothing has much has changed since Vista. In fact, that’s not the case and it’s a lot more powerful. Microsoft is now making best use of its aero technology. By default, taskbar icons are now larger and items are grouped together and are not labelled with clumsy text.

If you have multiple Word documents or Windows Explorer windows open then you’ll see a stack appear on the task bar. Hover the mouse over the app and each Window will be visible in a thumbnail. Hover over each thumbnail and it will become visible, while all other open windows temporarily disappear, save for their outlines. You can close each document or Window down from the thumbnail directly or click on it to bring it to the front.

In the Start menu, a small arrow to the right of applications such as Word now expands to give a list of recent documents and any can be pinned so you can keep one permanently on the list.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Microsoft Windows

The biggest advantage of Windows is that it provides ready-made solutions that can be implemented by just about anyone who’s ever used a computer.

Microsoft Office is also 100% compatible with any file or document produced in the office space in America. In fact, MS Office isn’t compatible with other software and systems, so much as other software and systems strive to be compatible with Office!

Finally, software services are in large supply when it comes to Windows. From Microsoft’s official services, to Maryland software support, to Microsoft certification training for individuals, there is no lack of software support for Windows.

Of course, Windows detractors will tell you that there is more need for software services when it comes to Windows. And while this worldwide operating system is far from trash, it is often not as stable as its Mac or Linux counterparts.

The only other major disadvantage of using Windows in the workplace is that over 95% of all viruses and malicious software are written for the Windows OS. This means you have to double-down all security measures if you’re using Microsoft software across the board.

Fix a corrupt registry in Windows 7

To fix a corrupt registry in Windows 7, you can try any of the following:

• Run start up repair
• Perfom an upgrade install
• Copy back up files from the Regback folder using command prompt

Startup Repair

To run Startup Repair, follow these instructions.

Method #1

1. Insert the original Windows 7 installation DVD in the disc tray
2. Reboot the computer
3. Press any key when it says “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD..”
4. Select a language and keyboard option
5. Click Repair your computer
6. Select your operating system
7. Choose Startup RepairWindows 7 System Recovery Options Screen
8. Follow the wizard instructions to complete the procedure

Method #2

1. Restart your computer
2. Press the F8 key several times during booting before the Windows 7 logo appears
3. At the Advanced Options screen, select Repair your computerAdvanced Boot Options on Windows 7
4. Select a keyboard and language
5. Select Startup RepairWindows 7 System Recovery Options Screen
6. Follow the wizard instructions to complete the process

Upgrade Install

An Upgrade Install may fix a corrupt registry as this option will install your Windows 7 again without affecting your personal files.

While Upgrade procedure shouldn’t touch your personal files, backup your files before you continue to make sure.

The instructions are:

1. Boot into Windows 7Important: You need to run the Windows 7 DVD while you’re logged in Windows 7.
2. Insert the Windows 7 DVD
3. If AutoPlay doesn’t open automatically, open the DVD directly from Computer
4. Click Install Now
5. Make sure the I want to help make Windows installation better option is unchecked
6. Click Go online to get the latest updates for installation
7. Accept the license terms
8. Click Next
9. Click Upgrade
10. Uncheck the Automatically activate Windows when I’m online option
11. Click Next
12. Click Ask me later at the Help protect your computer and improve Windows automatically screen. You can install updates for your Windows 7 once this process is done.
13. Continue with the instructions to complete the upgrade

Once this process is done, go and activate your license key:

1. Go to Control Panel
2. Go to System
3. At the Windows activation section, click Change product key

Command Prompt

To replace the registry in a Windows 7 system, follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt
2. Type C:\, where C: is the letter of the drive where your Windows 7 is installed
3. Press Enter
4. Type cd Windows\System32\Config
5. Press Enter
6. Type MD Temp and press Enter
7. Type the following commands and press Enter:copy BCD­Template Temp copy COMPONENTS Temp copy DEFAULT Temp copy SAM Temp copy SECURITY Temp copy SOFTWARE Temp copy SYSTEM TempBacking up the registry hives
8. Type the following commands and press Enter after each:ren BCD­Template BCD­Template.bak ren COMPONENTS COMPONENTS.bak ren DEFAULT DEFAULT.bak ren SAM SAM.bak ren SECURITY SECURITY.bak ren SOFTWARE SOFTWARE.bak ren SYSTEM SYSTEM.bakRenaming the old the registry hives
9. Then type these commands, one by one, and press Enter after each:copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\BCD­Template C:\Windows\System32\Config\BCD­Template copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\COMPONENTS C:\Windows\System32\Config\COMPONENTS copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\DEFAULT C:\Windows\System32\Config\DEFAULT copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\SAM C:\Windows\System32\Config\SAM copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\SECURITY C:\Windows\System32\Config\SECURITY copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\SOFTWARE C:\Windows\System32\Config\SOFTWARE copy C:\Windows\System32\Config\Regback\SYSTEM C:\Windows\System32\Config\SYSTEMRestoring the registry hives

Fix a corrupt registry in Windows 8 or 8.1

To repair a corrupt registry in Windows 8 or 8.1, you have these options:

• Run automatic repair
• RefreshThe Refresh option will not affect your files. Windows 8 will reinstall any applications you installed and create a copy of these applications on your desktop, but backup your data before you do a refresh.
• Reset A Reset option will remove all your personal files and delete any settings or configuration you did on your computer.

Run Automatic Repair

To run Automatic Repair which will attempt to fix a corrupt registry on your Windows 8 or 8.1 system, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings panel
2. Go to General
3. At the Advanced Startup panel, click Restart nowWindows 8 Advanced Startup
4. At the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot
5. At the Advanced Options screen, click Automated Repair
6. Choose an account and login, when prompted to do so
7. Automatic Repair should now start and your computer may reboot during this process

Windows 8 Advanced Startup screen

Refresh

To perform a Refresh on your Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 system, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Settings panel
2. Go to Change PC Settings
3. Click Update and recovery
4. Click Recovery
5. At the Refresh your PC without affecting your files section, click Get started
6. Follow the instructions to complete the refresh procedure

Windows 8 Recovery Screen

Reset

To do a Reset of your Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 system, follow these steps:

A Reset procedure will erase personal data from your computer. Backup your files before you continue.

1. Go to Settings > Change PC Settings
2. Click Update and recovery
3. Click Recovery
4. At the Remove everything and reinstall Windows section, click Get started
5. Follow the instructions to complete the refresh procedure

Windows 8 Recovery Screen

Fix a corrupt registry in Windows 10

To repair a corrupt registry in Windows 10, you have these options:

• Run automatic repair
• Refresh The Refresh option will not affect your files. Windows 10 will reinstall any applications you installed and create a copy of these applications on your desktop, but backup your data before you do a refresh.
• Reset A Reset option will remove all your personal files and delete any settings or configuration you did on your computer.

Run Automatic Repair

To run Automatic Repair which will attempt to fix a corrupt registry on your Windows 10 system, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings panel
2. Go to Update & Security
3. At the Recovery tab, click Advanced Startup -> Restart now
   Windows 10 Advanced Startup
4. At the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot
5. At the Advanced Options screen, click Automated Repair
6. Choose an account and login, when prompted to do so
7. Automatic Repair should now start and your computer may reboot during this process’

Windows 10 Advanced Startup screen

Refresh

To perform a Refresh on your Windows 10 system, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Settings panel
2. Go to Update and Security
3. Click Recovery
4. Click Get Started
5. At the Reset This PC section, click Get started
6. Click Keep My Files
7. Follow the instructions to complete the refresh procedure

Windows 10 Recovery screen

Reset

To do a Reset of your Windows 10 system, follow these steps:

A Reset procedure will erase personal data from your computer. Backup your files before you continue.

1. Go to the Settings panel
2. Go to Update and Security
3. Click Recovery
4. Click Get Started
5. At the Reset This PC section, click Get started
6. Click Remove Everything
7. Follow the instructions to complete the refresh procedure

Conclusion

A word of caution: The security vulnerabilities of Windows operating systems make them popular targets for programmers of malicious code. Whether these vulnerabilities are due to their enormous share of the market (making them enormously attractive) or coding errors on the part of Microsoft, the result is the same: There is a constant need for every system administrator and computer owner to proactively keep all Windows systems as secure as possible through vigilant access control and patch management.

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