In this Part 2 of my Windows 7 Control Panel tutorial, I’ll begin a presentation of the Action Center.

In my opinion Windows 7 Control Panel Action Center is far more useful and informative than Vista’s Security Center. It provides maintenance features as well as a one stop location to view the status of your computer security settings and services. It also continually monitors Windows 7 security settings and informs you via pop-up notification balloons if there’s a problem.

Note: If your Control Panel is set to ‘Viewed by’ Category, click System and Security. If it’s set to ‘Viewed by’ Large or Small icons, click on Action Center.

Novice users - please pay attention! When you open your Action Center for the first time, be sure to click on the Security. The current status of all your most important settings will be displayed.
To include the status of your:
1. Network Firewall and what firewall is currently protecting your computer.
2. Windows Update and how it’s installed.
3. Virus Protection.
4. Spyware and unwanted software protection. Click on the link to view your installed anti spyware program(s).
5. Internet security settings.
6. User Account Control with a link to change settings.
7. Network access protection if it applies.

Obviously the status of your system’s security is important enough for you to schedule a periodic visit to your Action Center. Important enough for you to right click on Action Center and send a shortcut to your Desktop if you are a bit memory challenged.

Next, click on Maintenance. It includes settings for:
1. Check for solutions to problem reports.
2. Backup.
3. Check for updates.
4. Troubleshooting: System Maintenance with a link to Change troubleshooting settings. Note: Go there! Make sure you are satisfied with the settings.

Action Center will notify you when items need your attention.
* Red items are Important. They indicate significant issues that should be addressed ASAP.
* Yellow items are suggested tasks you should consider addressing e.g., recommended maintenance tasks.

To quickly see whether there are any new messages in Action Center, place your mouse over the Action Center icon in the Notification area at the far right of the taskbar. Click the icon to view more detail and click a message to address the issue.

If you’re having a problem with your computer and it has not been identified, click on the Action Center Troubleshooting link. It has multiple troubleshooting features. Though they’ll never replace a qualified technician, they are safe and novice friendly.

Here’s wishing you a good Boot.