Using the Configuration Utility. Windows XP Setup Utilities

Every day multimedia applications, including games, are becoming more resource-demanding personal computer. Unfortunately, not every user has the opportunity (or desire) to upgrade the computer hardware. Of course, the problem can be solved at the hardware level, for example, by changing the jumper combination and thereby overclocking the processor to the maximum frequency. And yet, this method does not always give an effective and, especially, safe result. Another way change clock frequency by manipulating the BIOS. Here the risk is about 50 to 50, because if the wrong CPU Speed ​​Setting parameter is set, then the basic I/O system will refuse to boot at all, and the unfortunate experimenter will have to submit the ROM for repair, and he will most likely be told that the ROM cannot be repaired , requires replacement and is clearly not free. As you can see, both methods can lead to sad consequences. But we were told that a solution had been found, and, according to the developers, it was revolutionary: optimization programs. Today's story is about them.

Let's first try to understand the independent part of optimizing the operation of Windows OS.

For normal operation the system is enough for explorer.exe to be running (explorer, not to be confused with the browser Internet Explorer!), internat.exe (keyboard layout), systray.exe (taskbar), rundll.exe (launch dll libraries as applications) and cdi (laser disc recognition in a CD-ROM device). An elementary way to check their presence is to press the combination ++ once. Everything else is applications running in resident mode or used by the user on this moment. But this is only the bare minimum for self-optimization. The entire “bouquet” of downloadable services can be viewed using 2 methods. The first requires a convenient file manager(FAR, VC, NC): you need to find the file responsible for autoloading autoexec.bat in the root directory of your hard drive. Then, by pressing the file edit key (F4 in FAR), block extra launches, that is, enter a three-letter word (rem) before each of them. For example: REM C:\virus.exe. But in this way it is impossible to block everything and everyone, since this relates in a sense to the DOS side of Windows.

Second way: enter in command line Windows (Run...) the magic word msconfig and we get to System Settings. To run only vital services, just select Test run (or Diagnostic in Win XP). Next, we turn on the necessary services as needed (sound, antivirus, etc.).

Next step. It is highly advisable to remove wallpaper from the desktop and leave a minimum number of shortcuts on it.

All of the above actions should give a little extra percentage to the speed of completing the tasks assigned to the PC. But there are plenty hidden settings OS, access to which is very tricky. To simplify it, there are not only tweakers, but also automated utilities.

What is the essence of optimizer utilities? First you need to understand the complexity of the problem situation. We all know that almost any Windows OS has a very bad property of accumulating various parts of files, and they gradually not only clog HDD, but also negatively affect hardware performance. For more or less normal operation of a highly demanding application, full efficiency is required not only from the hardware, but also from the software environment. Utilities must “not touch” parts of the OS that are not responsible for the operation of the program, and at the same time constantly keep free those “gateways” through which the program must be executed. the right application. Examples of optimizers for amateurs computer games You've probably seen them in the 3D shooter Venom and the role-playing game Divine Divinity, which were adapted to the capabilities of the computer configuration. Both of them were, naturally, designed for the “metropolis” application.

Universal utilities

Win Accelerator
Status: Shareware
Copyright: Alex Klanovskij
Web: http://winaccelerator.8m.com
Size: 352Kb
OS: All Windows

The main purpose of the utility is to speed up the launch of programs. It allows an individual approach to each application by specifying any file with the *.exe extension. By default, the standard ones described above have been added to the list of file launch settings control system applications, and office programs. There are 4 speed setting modes available: min, norm, high, max. For example, let's add to the list of active programs graphic editor Photoshop (7th version), or rather its exe file. In normal mode, its loading time became 2530 seconds, after switching to max mode 7 seconds. Acceleration occurs due to the redistribution of memory, where and how it is distributed, the developers are modestly (or slyly) silent.

The utility has one drawback: it does not work, or rather, it displays a message about the program that performed an incorrect operation when you try to change the startup speed while the application is running. And one more thing: speed activation occurs only after the second launch of the application.

WinRAM Booster
Status: Shareware (Trial)
Copyright: Totalidea Software
Web: http://www.winram-booster.de
OS: All Windows

It turns out that the Germans know how not only to fight and play industrial music, but also to create universal RAM managers. The utility is very interesting in its external design: three graphs are constantly drawn on the screen (a kind of “cardiogram”): red Memory Used, light blue CPU Usage and lilac Swap File Usage. The utility's function is stated to be cleaning RAM without rebooting the computer. The importance lies in the constant operation of the system. In addition to graphs, 2 types of additional monitoring are available: viewing resource utilization and viewing all applications involved in the user’s work. WRAM is good for everyone, but one thing is not clear: the utility itself also takes up memory?..

Gaming utilities

The gamer will probably doubt the effectiveness of the method: “We have contemplated not such Kulibins. After their activities, there is zero benefit, and a lot of talk.” To be honest, your humble servant had a similar opinion until life gave him an ultimatum either new processor, video card and RAM, or, dear user, play Tetris and don’t bore the sellers with questions like “Will the game run fine on my 433?” Both options did not suit me, and then I remembered that a long time ago, when my computer was still new and one of the most powerful, a rumor reached my ears that there were programs that allowed games designed for, say, a frequency of 300 MHz, "fly" on 166 Pentiums. Having laughed, the author of these lines replied something like “It’s most likely not the games that will fly, but the motherboard.” However, after 4 years it was no longer a laughing matter, and I decided to take a risk.

Game XP Game Machine
Status: Freeware
Copyright: Theorica Software
Web: http://www.theorica.tk
Size: 344kb
OS: Windows 9x, ME, XP

In addition to the main files, the program package includes detailed instructions by use (*.html format), license agreement about refusal to use the program for commercial purposes and Readme. The reader can see the program interface in the screenshot. It is not difficult to guess that the first button is intended to accelerate, and the second to return to normal mode. The checkbox allows you to change some of the standard options if desired. Windows functions for higher efficiency. After selecting the checkbox and pressing the accelerator, a reboot followed...

The result of the utility left a very favorable impression, and yet there were system failures: after returning to the “default” mode, for some unknown reason the dsound.dll library (DirectX) stopped working, but the funny thing is that after switching to warp speed library is working again. The cause of this failure was determined using the mutual exclusion method, that is, by prohibiting changes standard features. Perhaps the determinant of this minus is the GXP predetermination specifically for the Windows XP OS, because the interface buttons cause more than serious deja vu. (If the author understood what he wrote in the last sentence, then we hope you do too. Note ed.)

GameGain
Status: Shareware
Copyright: PG Ware
Web: http://www.pgware.com/
Size: 604kb
OS: All Windows

A more complex and thoroughly made game optimizer. Based on the famous PC Medic. The seriousness of the approach to its creation is evidenced by a multi-level help file (*.chm format), an extensive version history (starting from 1.7.5 to 2.4.5 in total 42 versions) and the ability to apply for technical support(on English language). There are 2 types of acceleration available here: Fast mode and Fastest mode. There is also the possibility of correcting incorrect initialization of the processor type and OS. The second acceleration mode requires mandatory registration, as you probably already guessed, not free. You shouldn’t be upset about this, since Fastest is only slightly more effective than Fast, and the program itself is not a trial, so it does not require mandatory registration, although it reminds you of the need for it every time you start it (in general, the situation is painfully trivial.). No side effects were found during the entire period of work.

Finally, I want to give a warning, or rather, a parting word: do not install crack applications for the example described above, since their installation may result in the inability to return the operating system to default mode.

The disadvantage of both optimizers is that they are designed for applications that use polygon 3D graphics, and are ineffective for games with an isometric (pseudo-3D) “engine”. It is also inconvenient that the lack of display of changes in the system could be done simple entry V text file. It's sad, but imagine what will happen if you activate GXP and GG at the same time...

P.S. During the entire testing period, no hardware or system problems were noticed. The results of checking the system with the Sandra test package showed that the utilities did not have any effect on the computer hardware: the temperature of the processor and video card chip remained normal. The only thing that was noticed was a conflict with the K-Lite codec package, which was corrected by rolling back to GameGain.

Computer performance depends on both the power of hardware components and correctly configured operation. operating system. There is little benefit from increasing the amount of RAM if it is filled with useless programs. A powerful processor will not speed up if it is limited to save battery power. Fine-tuning Windows can significantly optimize system performance without additional material costs.

What affects system performance

The performance of Windows 7 is determined by many factors, some of which are the result of trade-offs between power, usability and battery consumption, and others of which depend on how well-maintained the computer is. Therefore, to increase performance, it is necessary to configure the system to maximum performance and remove all obstacles to its normal operation.

Perhaps an experienced user will want to independently debug each element of the system and configure the computer to suit their needs. For others the best solution will use special programs for fine-tuning the system (tweakers), which show problems in a convenient and understandable form and help eliminate them.

Optimization programs (free and paid)

Programs whose main purpose is to improve Windows operation 7, there are many on the market. There are universal large applications and small specialized utilities, programs with many customizable options and with one “red button”. Most programs have additional functions, not directly related to performance, but also important for the user, for example, the protection of personal data.

Universal

Usually, universal programs They have a large set of optimization utilities, but are paid. Packages with limited functionality or outdated versions are distributed free of charge.

Advanced System Care

Universal application Advanced System Care is an impressive set of fine products Windows settings, protection against malware, spyware and adware. Special utilities eliminate problems with the registry, security settings, and operations with intermediate files. Today the application is one of the best in this category.

Three acceleration modes available

The Advanced SystemCare interface stands out from other programs with its futuristic design. But at the same time it remains simple, convenient and intuitive.

Futuristic style and big start button

Acceleration is activated with one button

The free version of Advanced SystemCare also has good functionality, but the full capabilities of the program are truly revealed in the full paid package.

IN free version many functions are not available

The popular CCleaner package primarily specializes in cleaning the operating system, drives and RAM, hence its name. But many other optimization functions of Windows 7 are available to the user.

CCleaner's functionality is narrower than that of Advanced SystemCare, however special utilities much more powerful for cleaning:

The register is analyzed carefully

In 35 passes any information will be erased

Removing programs is organized very conveniently

Autoload can be edited with one click

The package interface is very simple and intuitive and does not require deep knowledge of the system.

The analysis is carried out very quickly

You can create backups before fixing

Old versions of CCleaner are distributed free of charge. To get more powerful updated packages you will have to pay.

AusLogics BoostSpeed

The BoostSpeed ​​package from AusLogics, a company with Australian roots, has an impressive set of utilities and a user-friendly interface. The stated main goal of the package is to increase the speed of the system.

The list of utilities is impressive

The functionality contains utilities for repairing the registry, configuring the system, and caring for the hard drive:

The advice even applies to hardware

Acceleration has many options

Personal data is also better protected

The interface is friendly, convenient, typical for programs in this category:

Future benefits can be assessed

The first analysis is always bad

To unlock all the features of the package, you will have to buy the paid version. The free version has significantly less functionality.

Mini programs for your computer or laptop

Small, compact programs that sometimes do not even require installation usually have limited specialized functionality and are distributed free of charge. These two qualities make them a good addition to an all-around package.

The SpeedUpMyPC package is positioned by the developer as a system accelerator. Cleaning up debris and system errors is considered part of performance enhancement procedures.

The functionality of SpeedUpMyPC contains utilities standard for this category of programs, as well as our own developments aimed at increasing performance:

Registry optimization is terse

The interface of the package is original and colorful, quite convenient:

Available background mode, but you need to register

You can fix found problems with one click

The program belongs to the shareware category and offers a free limited version with the ability to add utilities for a fee.

There is also technical support

Another free application Comodo System Cleaner with a strong block of cleaning utilities. The package also contains crash fixing functionality and Windows errors, hard drive care.

The functionality of the package has a clear “shift” towards cleaning, but some utilities relate to optimizing work using other methods.

The summary also doesn’t provide much information.

You can choose the cleaning depth

Removal may be forced

Permanent deletion may also be different

The Comodo System Cleaner interface is designed in the familiar “matrix” style, is intuitive and simple:

Not many settings

An additional advantage of the application is that it is free.

A small, free, installation-free utility for optimal system setup by cleaning the Windows registry.

The package also includes optimization utilities.

The functionality of the package is focused on operations with the system registry:

Registry defragmentation is not always necessary

Wise Registry Cleaner's interface is simple and intuitive.
Cleaning can be done at different depths

Nice to see there are no more bugs

The undoubted advantage of the package is its free distribution.

Easy Cleaner

The free EasyCleaner program cleans the system of unnecessary information, corrects the Windows 7 registry and presents disk information in a convenient graphical representation.

The functionality of the package is a little poorer than that of CCleaner, but it has its own characteristics:

The program interface is very simple and clear, the design is classic:

The disk status is presented very clearly

Since the program is free, it can be a good addition to an all-in-one package.

Red Button

The developers of the Red Button program put the simplicity and convenience of the interface first. Even the name of the application is not accidental - you can start optimization with one click on the big red button.

This button is hard to miss

Red Button has very good functionality, consisting of utilities that optimize the operation of the processor, RAM, hard drive and registry:

Registry cleaning is also modest

You can edit the list of what is considered garbage

CPU and RAM settings available

The program interface is very clear and simple, in the style of Windows 7 system services:

Hard drive care is a bit frugal

Until recently, the program was distributed free of charge, but the popularity of the package inspired the manufacturer to release paid versions. But previous free modifications also show good results.

Glary Utilities

Small program Glary Utilities also claims to be universal, but its strength can be considered its system analysis tools.

The functionality of Glary Utilities contains tools for checking and optimally configuring the system, privacy, hard drive care and updating existing drivers.

There are not many utilities, but there are rare ones

The download speed is presented very clearly

The application interface is friendly, very similar to the built-in system Windows utilities 7:

Many problems can be fixed with one click

You can sort programs according to several criteria

The somewhat limited functionality of the package is justified by the fact that it is distributed free of charge.

The nCleaner application, due to its small size and functionality, can be classified as a mini-program for system optimization. The program's main emphasis is on cleaning.

nCleaner functionality is focused on removing unnecessary information, but there are also additional tools:

• Cleaning. Tools for cleaning the system, registry, personal data.
• Garbage. A separate utility for searching and erasing intermediate and unnecessary files. There are preset modes for cleaning main folders (faster) and scanning all disks (slower, but complete).

You can scan individual folders or the entire disk

• Optimization. Tools for optimal configuration of Windows and various services to increase the speed and stability of your computer.
• Autoload. Editing the list of applications that are automatically launched during Windows startup.
• Confidentiality. Deleting information that cannot be restored and clearing unallocated hard disk space.
• Cleaning RAM. A separate utility for unloading unused blocks from RAM.

A separate utility for unloading RAM

• Schedule. It is possible to start automatically according to a user-specified schedule.

nCleaner does not have the traditional option to undo changes made or create backup copies of the system registry, which is justified given the small size of the application.

Of course, this mini-program is distributed free of charge.

Comparison table: which program to choose

As you would expect, the largest number of utilities needed to optimize system operation are contained in universal packages. But mini-programs also have their own strengths. They are more compact, easy to use, have advanced special functions and, as a rule, are free.

Specialized programs greatly simplify fine-tuning Windows, automate optimization processes and work with many options. The user can easily select the program to suit his own needs.

A modern person spends a lot of time at a computer, be it stationary equipment or a laptop, so it is advisable to create the most comfortable conditions for yourself when working on it.

In addition to external factors such as indoor lighting, a large role in ensuring comfortable and safe use play device settings.

For the most precise adjustments, you may need a program to configure the monitor.

Introduction

What are these programs and what are they for? Such software assumes fast access to all possible settings and computer screen settings. With it, you can adjust any monitor parameter optimally exactly “for yourself”.

Of course, access to most of the functions provided by such a program is can also provide the computer's own resources, for example, they can be accessed through the Control Panel.

However, do this via special program, in fact, with one click, much more convenient.

The functionality of such programs is quite wide - they help to change the color, brightness, screen resolution, screen management, adjust the position of buttons, panels and shortcuts, etc. That is, such software “collects” all the possibilities for changing screen parameters to simplify access to them .

In addition, some software helps you configure more complex settings that cannot be changed using the computer’s own resources.

Why is it so important to carefully fine-tune your monitor settings? This is due to the fact that the main load when working at a computer falls on the eyes, and it is the screen that creates it. Thus, with careful adjustment of the monitor, this load can be reduced, which can potentially even help maintain good vision.

Main characteristics

Choosing the most optimal program is often quite difficult, since it is necessary to simultaneously take into account a whole variety of parameters.

To simplify and speed up this process, the summary table below shows the main characteristics of everything software included in the TOP, which may be of primary importance when choosing.

Taking these parameters into account will allow you to quickly select the most suitable software for yourself.

UltraMon

The most functional and simple program of all those presented in the TOP. It is easy to work with and helps to carry out enough fine settings monitor, change even the most insignificant parameters over a wide range. It is distributed for a fee, but has a trial period.

Particularly convenient for working with multi-monitor systems - it allows you to copy and move desktops from one monitor to another, copy them, stretch the taskbar across multiple monitors, etc. It also allows you to technical setup screens - change color, resolution and more.

The advantages of such software are as follows:

Positive:

• “Tailored” for multi-monitor viewing;
• Simple controls and clear interface;
• Wide functionality.

Negative:

• Paid license;
• The functionality is quite narrow, namely setting technical parameters;
• A large number of functions that are not required by the average PC user.

And here’s what users who have already worked with this program say: “I couldn’t find anything better than this program”, “It doesn’t have some of the functions that Actual Multipal Monitors has, but overall I’m happy with the software”, “It works stably, the functionality is sufficient for optimization screen management."

Nokia Monitor Test

This is a small and lightweight utility designed to configure monitor parameters (geometry, contrast, etc.) without changing its control systems. The name should not confuse you - the software is designed to work specifically with computer and laptop screens.

It has high-quality Russification, and the help files installed in the utility will help you decide on the settings depending on the nature of your work and the volume of the load.

This will reduce eye strain when working at a computer.

Positive:

• No need to install the program;
• Availability of reference materials for setup;
• Minimum load on the hardware and memory of the device.

Negative:

• Narrow functionality;
• Lack of possibility of any adjustments other than “technical” ones;
• Works stably on most systems.

The opinions of users who are already actively using this program are as follows: “It’s a pity that it’s impossible to run X64 on Windows 8. I tried everything and nothing works”, “Allows you to properly adjust the monitor and evaluate all the main parameters of the picture. A set of tables is reference. Great program!”, “Helped to bring the monitor back to life.”

Power Strip

An application that allows you to configure technical parameters and control both one monitor and several at once. It is distributed for a fee due to its high complexity and wide functionality.

It differs in that it supports many video cards, including old ones.

It has 500 parameters for setting up the display and video card, both the simplest and the most complex. There is extensive and clear help for all complex and simple functions and parameters.

Positive:

• Multi-screen mode support;
• Very wide functionality;
• It is equally convenient both in working with multi-screen systems and with simple ones.

Negative:

• Paid software distribution;
• The need to install it;
• Quite a significant load on the memory and hardware resources of the computer.

And here’s what those who actively use it say about the program: “My favorite program,” “This program will allow you to open up new opportunities, so download it quickly,” “I’ve been using the program for a very long time, I consider it the most valuable of its kind.”

UD Pixel

Quite simple free program, which is suitable for setting up computer monitors and TVs.

It is mainly intended for restoring dead and stuck pixels on monitors, but it also allows you to make other settings. Quite light and functional.

The way the program works is that it causes pixels to change colors in high-speed mode.

In most cases, this helps to restore them, although no software can provide a 100% guarantee of recovery.

Positive:

• The only program in the TOP that allows you to restore pixels;
• Free distribution.

Negative:

• Lack of multimonitor mode;
• Quite a long time to restore a pixel (but this does not interfere with working on a PC);
• Inability to make other types of settings.

User reviews about this software are: “Very good utility, at work on one computer there were 2 broken pixels in different places of the screen, which was revived closer to the center, but not near the edge”, “I confirm the usefulness. The monitor has been cured of 2 red dots on the screen.”

Is My LCD OK

To a greater extent, this program is intended for diagnosing LED and LCD monitors, but it also allows for configuration.

It is distributed free of charge and is a utility, that is, it does not require installation on a computer and can be launched from removable media.

The principle of its operation is that the screen is alternately filled with different colors, as a result of which the user can detect defective pixels, and restore them. There are also several specific monitor tests.

Positive:

• Free distribution;
• Very light weight - only 29 KB;
• Really extensive monitor diagnostic options;
• Suitable for use with TVs.

Negative:

• Quite limited screen settings;
• “Focused” not so much on tuning, but on diagnostics;
• Troubleshooting is not always effective.

Not many users of Windows-based devices know that this operating system has a huge number of built-in useful utilities (narrowly focused applications that are designed to solve a specific task). A huge disadvantage is that they are not always easy to find in the system and not every beginner will be able to understand some of them. Therefore, third-party utilities are most often used.

However, built-in system functions useful and functional, and it will also be useful to know how to work with them in the absence of third-party applications.

system configuration

This is one of the main utilities. Mainly responsible for loading the operating system and allows you to change many parameters.

To launch it, just start writing in the search “ system configuration", and Windows will automatically show it in the results. Another option is to press simultaneously Win+ R and enter in the window that opens msconfig, and click Enter.

Understanding the configuration window is quite simple; it contains only five tabs:

System Information

You can launch the application in a standard way: Win+r and enter in the window msinfo32 . Allows you to obtain comprehensive information about installed system and physical equipment. In fact, many third party programs they do the same. Therefore, in many cases, instead of installing downloaded software, you can use system information.

Troubleshooting Windows

Launching it is quite simple:

Computer management

Computer management is not one utility, but a whole set of applications. Allows you to change and check many parameters, some of which we will consider below.

You can run it by pressing Win+R and using the command compmgmt.msc. It can also be found through search or in Start, in the administrative tools section.

Task Scheduler

This component is designed to run specific tasks on time. Here you can set to turn off the computer, launch files and programs, turn the Internet on and off, and much more.

You can run it through the control panel or enter the command taskschd.msc in the window that appears by pressing the Win+R keys.

By the way, it is very convenient to use the scheduler to start defragmentation or disk cleanup at a certain time.

The event log

Most system events of the system are recorded here. The logs contain diagnostic and informational alerts, as well as critical errors and warnings.

Event viewing can be customized as you wish; there are sets of filters and subscriptions.

When serious system errors occur, people will usually check this utility first to understand what went wrong.

The application is launched by entering the command eventvwr.msc after pressing Win+R, or through the control panel.

Resource Monitor

Another diagnostic utility. Allows you to monitor the operation of the system in real time. Makes it possible to monitor ongoing processes in the system, not only software, but also hardware.

So, here you can find out the load on the processor, look at disk and memory access, determine which running process is consuming traffic, etc.

You can run it using the command perfmon /res, after pressing the combination Windows + R. You can also get here through Computer management by selecting Performance – Resource Monitor.

Disk Management

A standard application that allows you to flexibly manage physical and local disks. Can be used as an alternative to third-party software. Can assign drive letters, repartition partitions, format into different file systems and much more

On Windows 10, you can launch it by clicking right click mouse on start and selecting the item of the same name. Or use Win+R and the command diskmgmt.msc.

System Stability Monitor

A powerful tool for checking the stability of the system as a whole. Allows you to track events over time and with a convenient chart.

The launch is standard - the combination Win + R, and then entering the command perfmon /rel.

Disk Cleanup

A small application that cleans the disk from unnecessary garbage. Doesn't clean like CCleaner, but allows you to remove unnecessary system files. Sometimes this way you can free up several gigabytes.

To run use the command cleanmgr in the Run window (Win+R).

Memory checkers

Lastly, let's look at a tool that allows you to check RAM without using third party software. It works quite effectively. You can run it with the command mdsched.exe from the command interpreter, which is launched with the Win+R combination.

Other utilities

We have not mentioned all useful system functions. In fact, there are many more of them, for example:

• Registry Editor– allows you to make changes to the system. A very serious tool that provides a lot of possibilities, but it can also completely destroy the OS.
• Task Manager- manages everyone running processes and program. Simple at first glance, but quite a powerful management tool. In recent Windows versions It even allows you to assign processor cores to each task.
• Editor group policy . Beginner users rarely encounter this tool. It allows you to change almost everything in the operation of the system. For example, it is with the help of this editor that you can prevent your computer from working with external drives.
• Firewall– built-in firewall. Allows you to protect your computer from attacks from the Internet. In version 10 of Windows, together with the built-in antivirus, you do not need to use third-party antivirus solutions at all.

And it's not full list what you can use without using the functionality of third-party software.

operating system Windows Vista is becoming increasingly popular among users. Today, most new computers and laptops are sold with the Windows Vista operating system pre-installed, and the problem of application compatibility with this OS has practically ceased to exist. At the same time, the problem of setting up the operating system Windows systems Vista is becoming more and more relevant.

The Windows Vista operating system, like any other operating system, can be configured in three ways: using its built-in configuration tools, by editing the registry, and using specialized configuration utilities (tweakers). Naturally, both in the case of customization tools built into the operating system and in the case of tweakers, customization ultimately comes down to editing the registry. But, unlike manual editing, the use of specialized utilities or OS tools allows you to do this quickly, safely, and most importantly - very simply. That is, any tweaker is just a convenient interface for specialized editing of the registry. After all, it is simply impossible to remember all the registry settings used to configure the OS. In addition, tweakers, as a rule, provide additional features, and therefore, in addition to tools for configuring and optimizing the operating system itself, tweakers may include tools for cleaning the registry and various tools that replace the built-in OS tools.

Just a year ago, you could find only a couple of tweakers for the Windows Vista operating system on the Internet. Today there are more than a dozen such tweakers, and therefore the user faces the problem of choice.

In this article we will look at latest versions the most popular tweakers for tuning Windows Vista 32-bit OS and compare them functionality. Note that many of the tweakers we reviewed are compatible with Windows XP, but in the future we will focus specifically on Windows Vista 32-bit. All tweakers discussed in this article were tested on a computer with the English version of the Windows Vista Ultimate 32-bit operating system installed.