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Windows 10 Journal

Updated 7 March 2023

This is my journal on using and tweaking the Windows 10 experience. This is by no means a definitive guide. This is just a page I use for my own reference and if anybody gets value out of it then that fine as well. Features and settings are updated and changed as operating system updates get deployed. These notes are based on my personal experience and will not work for everyone.

Best Windows 10 User Hacks & Tweaks

Check your browser for thumbprinting

EFF Cover Your Tracks

Cover Your Tracks demonstrates how trackers view your browser.

When you use the internet, websites and online services can track you and your activities. They do this by using cookies, which are small files stored on your device, and by collecting information about your device and web browser, such as its type and version.

This information, when combined, creates a unique digital fingerprint that can be used to identify you and track your activities across different websites and services. This is often done without your knowledge or consent, and can be used for targeted advertising or other purposes.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) is a non-profit organization that advocates for digital privacy and security. They created a tool called Panopticlick that allowed users to test their browser fingerprint and see how unique and trackable it was.

Recently, EFF has replaced Panopticlick with a new tool called "Cover Your Tracks". This tool evaluates your browser fingerprint and gives you recommendations on how to protect your privacy and avoid being tracked online. It's a helpful tool for anyone who wants to understand and protect their online privacy.

Windows 10 task view guide

Microsoft Windows Task View

Microsoft Windows Task View is a useful feature that allows you to manage and switch between multiple open applications or virtual desktops with ease. Introduced in Windows 10, this feature has become a go-to for many users who need to multitask and manage multiple windows efficiently. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to make the most out of their Windows experience, the Task View feature is worth exploring. In this article, we will take a closer look at Task View, its benefits, and how you can use it to enhance your productivity.

This is the best guide that we've found that details how to best use the virtual desktop function. This feature has been sorely missing in previous versions of Windows. The virtual desktop feature is quite basic by modern standards with limited customization. Our main wish is that the desktops can be renamed.

How to Access Microsoft Windows God Mode

Windows 10 God Mode

Microsoft Windows God Mode is a special feature that allows users to access all the settings and options of their Windows system in one place. It provides an easy and convenient way to manage and customize various aspects of the operating system, such as user accounts, security settings, system performance, and more. While it may sound like an advanced and intimidating feature, it is actually quite simple to activate and use, making it a popular tool among power users and enthusiasts.

Create a directory with the following name:
GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}

Warning: This mode gives you full access configuring Windows 10 and should be used with care.

How to change drive letter in Microsoft Windows 10

Changing a drive letter

When you connect a new external hard drive or USB device to your Windows computer, it automatically assigns a drive letter to the device. However, you may find that the letter assigned is not to your liking or conflicts with another drive. In such cases, changing the drive letter can be useful. It can also be helpful when you want to organize your drives and make them more easily identifiable. This can be done easily through the Windows Disk Management tool. In this article, we will explore the process of changing drive letters in Microsoft Windows and how it can benefit your computer usage.

Microsoft has written a detailed IT Pro Center article (wayback) on changing drive letters for Windows 10. Refer to this article before you take any steps, but in short, the method is similar to:

  1. Click Windows start and type Create and format hard disk partitions
  2. Go to the desired drive partition, right click and select Change Drive Letter and Paths
  3. Follow the promts and change to the desired letter

Warning: this should only be undertaken by experienced administrators and do so at own risk!

How to remove OnDrive from the navigation pane

Add & Remove OneDrive from Navigation Pane

OneDrive is a cloud storage service offered by Microsoft that allows users to store and access files and folders from any device with internet access. The service is integrated into Windows 10, and by default, the OneDrive folder is displayed in the navigation pane of File Explorer. However, some users may not use OneDrive and prefer not to have it displayed in the navigation pane. On the other hand, some users may rely heavily on OneDrive and would like to have it displayed more prominently in the navigation pane. In either case, knowing how to add or remove OneDrive from the navigation pane can help users customize their Windows experience and increase productivity.

This tutorial will show you how to add or remove the OneDrive folder from the navigation pane of File Explorer for your account without disabling OneDrive in Windows 10.

Microsoft Office tips and tricks guide

Microsoft Office shortcuts and tips

Infographics can be a powerful tool for visual communication and information sharing. When it comes to Microsoft Office products, there are numerous features and functions to learn and remember, which can be overwhelming for new or even experienced users. Infographics can simplify and condense this information into easily digestible and visually appealing graphics, making it easier for users to understand and remember. They can also highlight lesser-known features or tips and tricks that can increase productivity and efficiency when using these products. Overall, infographics can be a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Great ways to work with Office. Infographic and shoprtcut posters for your favourite Office-365 applications.

Windows printer test page and calibration

Windows Printer Test Page

When it comes to printing, it can be frustrating when your output doesn't match your expectations. Whether it's the wrong color balance or misaligned lines, it's important to ensure that your printer is calibrated correctly. One way to achieve this is by printing test pages with color grades and line calibration charts. These pages provide a visual reference for the printer's capabilities and can help identify any issues that may need to be addressed. By printing and analyzing these pages, users can ensure that their printer is functioning at its best, which can ultimately lead to better quality prints and greater satisfaction.

I have looked at many different print test pages available for free on the Internet and to our eyes, the printer test page from MIR-AUS is the best. An alternative source for this page is on wayback.

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