Settings is a central hub for managing various aspects of your PC. It offers a simple interface to customize and control your Windows device, ensuring a more personalized and efficient experience.
Whether you're adjusting display settings, configuring network connections, or managing privacy options, Settings offers a comprehensive suite of tools to meet your needs.
To open Settings you can use one of the following methods:
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Right-click on Start and select Settings
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Use the keyboard shortcut +I
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Use the link:
Settings
Getting around in Settings
Settingsisdesigned to help you quickly find and manage your Windows preferences. It features a navigation panel, with clearly labeled categories. Each category is represented by an icon and a name, such asSystem,Bluetooth & devices, andPrivacy & security.
You can explore Settings in two ways:
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Use search: use the search bar to find settings by entering a keyword, such as "display"or "notifications".
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Browse by category: Use the navigation panel to select a category. Each category opens a dedicated page with grouped settings or cards that provide controls and information for specific Windows features. Some pages also include links to subpages for more detailed options.
The combination of searchand settings categoriesensures you can quicklylocateand adjust the settings that matter most to you.
Settings categories
Expand the following sections to learn more about each Settings category and discover how you can make the most of your Windows device.
 | When you open Settings, Home is typically the first page displayed. The Home page surfaces account-related actions and simplifies access to frequently used device settings through interactive cards like Recommended Settings, Personalization, Bluetooth, Storage, and more. |
 | The System page in Settings provides a comprehensive overview of your PC's core functionalities and configurations. It includes options for managing display settings, notifications, power and sleep settings, storage, optional features, and more. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
System
To learn more:Display settings in Windows.
 | From the Bluetooth & devices page you can manage connected devices such as printers, scanners, and Bluetooth devices. It also includes settings for mouse, keyboard, pen, and touchpad configurations. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
To learn more:Hardware in Windows.
 | The Network & internet page covers settings related to Wi-Fi, Ethernet, VPN, mobile hotspot,and data usage. Use this page to connect to networks, manage connections, and monitor data consumption. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
To learn more:Essential Network Settings and Tasks in Windows.
 | Use the Personalizationpage tocustomize the appearance of your PC, including themes, backgrounds, colors, lock screen, Start menu, and taskbar settings. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Personalization
To learn more:Windows personalization help.
 | The Apps page lets you manage all your applications effortlessly. You can view, install, uninstall, and update apps, choose default apps, configure startup appsand actions, all in one place. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Apps
To learn more:Uninstall or remove apps and programs in Windows.
 | From the Accountspage you can manage your Microsoft account, work or school account,family settings, and sign-in options. It also includes settings for email and app accounts. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Accounts
To learn more: Help for accounts in Windows.
 | Use the Time & Language page to adjust date and time settings, language preferences, and region settings. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
To learn more:Set time, date, and time zone settings in Windows.
 | The Gaming page includes settings for the game bar, game mode, and game streaming. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Gaming
To learn more:Windows gaming features and tips.
 | From the Accessibility page you can change Windows accessibility options to make your PC easier to use, including settings for vision, hearing, and interaction. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Accessibility
To learn more:Discover Windows accessibility features.
 | The Privacy & security page covers settings related to location, camera, microphone, and other privacy options. You can control app permissions, manage diagnostic data, configure encryption, and find a lost or stolen device. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
To learn more:Change privacy settings in Windows.
 | Use the Windows Updatepage to configure Windows updates, active hours, and other update options. You can also enroll in the Windows Insider Program to get preview builds of Windows. |
You can use the following link to access the page:
Windows Update
To learn more:Install Windows Updates.
Other configuration options
While Settings is the main tool for configuring Windows, there are other options available. To learn more about these tools,seeSystem Configuration Tools in Windows.
