The control panel is basically a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that has been there in almost all versions of Windows Operating System. It is quite useful because it makes it easier for both novices and professionals to make all the necessary changes that they might require on their computer systems. Using the control panel, users can perform a wide range of tasks such as those described below:

  • Changing program accessibility options
  • Adding new hardware
  • Adding or removing software programs
  • Managing administrative tools and options
  • Making changes to the automatic update option
  • Setting time and date
  • Changing display settings
  • Changing folder options
  • Managing fonts and graphics
  • Changing Internet settings
  • Changing mouse and keyboard settings
  • Setting up or remove network connections
  • Installing or linking printers, faxes, scanners, and cameras
  • Managing system tools and settings
  • Changing user settings and parameters
  • Setting up a wireless network connection
  • Making changes in Windows firewall settings
  • Changing the taskbar and start menu settings and options

The control panel in Windows is displayed as a separate folder, but you will be surprised to know that it does not physically exist on your system. The page that is displayed when you click on the “control panel” contains only the shortcuts to all the various applets that are available in Windows. The actual applets are in fact .CPL files, all of which are stored in the system32 folder of Windows.

To access control panel, you just have to click on ‘Start’ and select “control panel” from the list. Making changes and managing all the various tools and options is also easy and everything gets done in just a few clicks. However, it’s necessary that you log in as an administrator or a user having administrative rights because some components such as the administrative tools, date and time, firewall settings and others require you to have administrative rights. Just ensure this and you will easily be able to make all the desired changes in your computer.