Microsoft OS System features and Tools Flashcards
Master and relate concepts to the bigger picture
Task Manager
A tool for monitoring and managing running processes, applications, and system performance (CPU, memory, disk usage).The Traffic Cop of Your System.
Access: Ctrl + Shift + Esc or Right-click Taskbar > Task Manager
Relates to: Performance Monitor (both track system health).
MMC (Microsoft Management Console)
A framework for managing administrative tools. The Toolbox of Windows
Access: Win + R, type mmc
Relates to: Event Viewer, Task Scheduler, and Local Users and Groups (snap-ins for management).
Event Viewer
A tool for viewing logs related to system, security, and application events (used for troubleshooting).The Detective of Your System.
Access: eventvwr.msc
Relates to: Task Manager (after crashes) and Security Logs (connected to Local Security Policy).
Event Viewer - System
A log category that records hardware and system errors or warnings. The heartbeat of your system.
Access: eventvwr.msc > Windows Logs > System
Event Viewer - Application
A log category for application-related events, such as crashes or errors. The Stage Manager for Apps
Access: eventvwr.msc > Windows Logs > Application
Relates to: Task Manager (identifying misbehaving apps).
Event Viewer - Security
A log category for security events, including login attempts and user rights. The Guard Dog of Your System.
Access: eventvwr.msc > Windows Logs > Security
Relates to: Local Security Policy (defines login policies).
Event Viewer - Categories of Events
Types of events in Event Viewer: Information, Warning, Error, Audit Success. The Four Warning Signs
Relates to: Group Policy Editor (can control event logging).
Task Scheduler
A tool for automating tasks, such as running programs or scripts at scheduled times. The Personal Assistant.
Access: taskschd.msc
Relates to: Event Viewer (logs task events) and Services (manages scheduled service starts).
Certificate Manager
A tool for managing digital certificates used for secure communications. The Librarian of Digital IDs.
Access: certmgr.msc
Relates to: Local Security Policy (affects encryption and trust settings).
Local Users and Groups
A tool for managing local user accounts, groups, and their permissions. The Gatekeeper.
Access: lusrmgr.msc
Relates to: Local Security Policy (defines user rights and permissions).
Performance Monitor
A tool for tracking system performance, such as CPU usage, memory, and disk activity. The Fitness Tracker for Your Computer.
Access: perfmon.msc
Relates to: Task Manager (real-time stats vs. long-term monitoring).
Group Policy Editor
A tool for configuring policies that control user and computer behavior on a network. The Rulebook.
Access: gpedit.msc
Relates to: Event Viewer (controls what gets logged) and Local Security Policy (enforces security policies).
Local Security Policy
A tool for configuring security settings, such as password policies and account lockout rules. The Lock and Key.
Access: secpol.msc
Relates to: Event Viewer (logs security events) and Group Policy Editor (can override local settings).
Services
A tool for managing system services (background processes), allowing you to start, stop, or configure them. The Engine Room
Access: services.msc
Relates to: Task Scheduler (manages service schedules) and Event Viewer (logs service issues).
- Computer Management
A tool that provides access to various system management tools, including disk management, services, and event logs. The Control Center.
Access: Right-click This PC > Manage or compmgmt.msc
Relates to: Event Viewer (logs system tasks) and Services (includes service management).
