Whether you’re new to computing, or just looking to enhance your system, there are a number of key tips and tricks to make your laptop work better for you

TIP 1 - MASTER THE TASKBAR

The taskbar in Windows XP plays an important role, as it allows you to set up the navigation system to work in the way that best suits you. Whether this is merely having the clock on show, or setting up which applications you wish to have in your Start up menu, the taskbar is a one-stop solution. Right-click on the taskbar at the foot of the screen and choose Properties. The dialogue box that will appear offers a host of options. You can choose whether to have the taskbar active all the time, so you can see which windows you have open or have it only pop up when you move the mouse cursor to the base of the screen.

If you have a number of favourite applications that you regularly launch, we suggest setting the Show Quick Launch, so you can arrange your favourites on the taskbar. This option will also place the Show Desktop icon, which allows you to minimise all windows at the click of a button – ideal if you like to keep prying eyes away from your active windows.

TIP 2 - SET PASSWORDS

If you don’t want other people to access your information and files without your permission, the best way to keep things private is by setting a password for each user who uses the system. To add a password, open User Accounts from the Control Panel and click Change An Account. Click the account you want to password protect and click Create A Password. You will need to enter the password twice, once to set it up and the second time to verify it. It is worth remembering that passwords are case-sensitive and that the best passwords are those that are made up of a combination of letters and numbers. You can enter a password hint, but doing so makes your password less secure, as other users may use it to guess your password. To do this click the Create Password button. Windows may ask if you want to make your files and folders private, which prevents users with limited accounts from viewing your documents and files.