Getting the most out of your Windows PC begins with understanding and customizing the built-in system tools. For beginners, this may sound technical, but Windows makes many key customization tasks straightforward. This guide will walk you through the essentials of system tool customization, using real-world examples to show how you can enhance your computer’s performance and personalize your Windows experience.
What Are Windows System Tools and Why Customize Them?
System tools are utilities built into Windows to help you manage, maintain, and troubleshoot your PC. Customizing these tools allows you to adapt your computer to your needs, improve speed and reliability, and make daily tasks easier.
Common system tools include Task Manager, Disk Cleanup, File Explorer, and Control Panel. Customizing them doesn’t just make maintenance easier—it can also improve your workflow and keep your PC running smoothly.
How Can You Customize Task Manager for Better Performance?
Task Manager is your window into what’s running on your PC. For beginners, it’s helpful to customize Task Manager to highlight the information you need most.
1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Task Manager.
2. If you only see a simple list, click “More details” at the bottom.
3. Reorganize the columns in the Processes tab by dragging and dropping them, so you can place “CPU,” “Memory,” or “Disk” usage where it’s most visible for you.
4. Right-click any column header to add or remove information. For example, add “GPU” usage if you want to monitor graphics performance.
Why Should You Personalize File Explorer’s View?
File Explorer helps you navigate your files and folders. Customizing its look and behavior saves time and makes file management less confusing.
1. Open File Explorer (Windows + E).
2. Click the “View” tab at the top.
3. Choose between “Details,” “Large icons,” or “List” views depending on your preference.
4. Click “Options” at the far right, then “Change folder and search options.”
5. Under the “General” tab, you can set File Explorer to open to “This PC” or “Quick access” on startup.
6. Use the “View” tab in Folder Options to show hidden files or file extensions, which can make organizing and troubleshooting easier.
How Do You Use Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense?
Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense are built-in tools designed to free up space and keep your computer tidy.
Disk Cleanup:
1. Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu and open the app.
2. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
3. Check boxes for items like “Temporary files” and “Recycle Bin.”
4. Click “OK” to delete selected files.
Storage Sense:
1. Go to Settings > System > Storage.
2. Turn on Storage Sense to let Windows automatically clean temporary files.
3. Click “Configure Storage Sense or run it now” to set how often it runs and what it deletes (like files in the Recycle Bin older than 30 days).
What Are Control Panel Shortcuts and Favorites?
Control Panel contains many key settings, but it can be confusing to navigate. Create shortcuts for quick access to the tools you use most.
1. Open Control Panel from the Start menu.
2. Switch “View by” to “Large icons” or “Small icons” for easier navigation.
3. Right-click any tool (like “Device Manager” or “Programs and Features”) and select “Create shortcut.” Windows will offer to place the shortcut on your desktop.
How Can Glary Utilities Help Beginners with System Tool Customization?
While Windows provides many built-in tools, beginners may find it easier to manage and customize their PC using an all-in-one solution like Glary Utilities. This program brings together cleanup, optimization, and customization tools in one simple interface.
With Glary Utilities, you can:
– Clean your disk and registry with a single click.
– Easily manage startup programs to speed up boot times.
– Use the 1-Click Maintenance feature for automated cleanup.
– Schedule regular maintenance so you don’t have to remember to run cleanup tools.
– Find duplicate files, repair shortcuts, and more—all without needing to search through different Windows menus.
It’s a great way for beginners to take control of system maintenance without feeling overwhelmed.
What Other Simple Customizations Can Improve Your Experience?
Pin Common Tools to Start or Taskbar:
Right-click any app or tool (like Task Manager or Glary Utilities) and select “Pin to Start” or “Pin to taskbar.” This gives you one-click access.
Set Up Quick Actions:
Go to Settings > System > Notifications & actions. Click “Edit your quick actions” to choose which system utilities appear in your Action Center for fast access.
Summary
Customizing Windows system tools is a beginner-friendly way to make your computer more efficient and easier to use. By adjusting Task Manager, File Explorer, Disk Cleanup, and Control Panel settings—and exploring all-in-one tools like Glary Utilities—you’ll keep your PC running smoothly and save time every day. Don’t be afraid to explore these built-in features; with a few simple changes, you can become a confident Windows user.