Windows 7 is perhaps the most powerful and feature-loaded operating system to date. However, default settings aren’t always the best settings. A few tweaks here and there are needed to get Windows 7 running to the best of its abilities. Here are a few optimization tips:
The world’s a dangerous place for a Windows 7 user to be living in. Stay protected by getting quality anti-virus on your system. The best free anti-virus software would probably be AVG Anti-Virus but F-Secure Internet Security and McAfee Total Protection are other virus protection software worth a try.
Change Windows 7 taskbar settings. The Windows 7 taskbar can be confusing especially if you’re new to it. Settings can be reverted to the more classical look. Right-click the taskbar, choose Properties and from the “Taskbar buttons list,” select “Combine when taskbar is full.” Opting to “use small icons” can save screen space.
Customize Explorer. Explorer’s default settings are rather questionable. The default navigation lists only a few folders and drives which results in faster loading, but slower navigation. Select a folder option that’s comfortable for you to work with. If the Vista navigation is what you want, select “Automatically expand to current folder” and “Show all folders.” It’s also handy to show file extensions and hidden files since Explorer doesn’t in default.
Increase power plan settings. Windows 7’s default power plan is set to “balanced” which sacrifices performances to save energy. When you’re using a desktop or your laptop’s plugged, trying to save energy may seem pretty pointless. Head to the Control Panel and choose Hardware and Sound. Power Options will be displayed and pick “High Performance.” Plan settings can also be customized to meet your needs.
Use old software. Windows 7 is pretty compatible with old software but occasional problems do arise. Install Microsoft XP Mode, a virtual version of XP for a Windows 7 desktop that allows you to run older problematic software smoothly. Your hardware specs need to be up-to-date to run this though.
Ready yourself for disaster. Windows 7 may seem like a huge improvement from Vista, but it’s too early to tell if there may be serious errors in the system. Play safe and create a system repair disc to backup your files. The system repair disc boots for you when you’re encountering problems booting.

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