How To Nerd: Customizing Windows Part 1

So this series is going to focus on Windows 7, but most of the tips and tricks I give can be used in Windows 8 as well.

"But Piper!", you scream, "Windows 7 is old. Don't you know that Windows 8 has been out for over a year?". Well yes I am quite aware, concerned reader. However, quite frankly, I have been sourly disappointed with Windows 8. That, however will not be the main focus of my writings and I will save it for a later time. Aside from my dislike for Windows 8, its predecessor is still a very relevant OS. In fact, I am not alone in preferring it over the new one. Windows 7 is actually meant to outlive Windows 8 in terms of LTS.

Never-the-less! On to how to pimp out your boring Windows 7 computer!

This may be what your desktop looks like. And that's sad. Well maybe you have changed the background to one of built in ones! Still sad. Perhaps you've gone in the internet and downloaded a wallpaper, maybe it was even the right screen resolution for your monitor... you might have also changed the themes and sounds your computer makes! Kudos.
Nope, still sad. Today, you will learn how to REALLY customize your computer and make it unique (unlike those aluminum unibody robots out there).

Basics:

1. If you haven't done anything I previously mention, go do it now. Mess around with the Personalize settings. Start by right clicking your desktop and going to "Personalize". Now have fun! If you're looking for some cool wallpapers, head over to www.wallpaperswide.com. Come back when you're done messing around.

2. Alright into the fun stuff! First we're gonna play with the Taskbar a little bit. The Taskbar is the bar at the bottom of your screen that has the Start button on it. It also holds minimized windows and the notification bar as well. Right click it. Go properties and check off "Auto-hide the taskbar" and "Use small icons". Also, try changing the location to the top or sides of the screen. You can change the behavior of buttons as well. Alright your desktop is starting to look a little different!

3. Okay, next order of business: Warning. Some of these programs may make your computer run slower. If you have a newer processor along with sufficient RAM you'll be fine. This warning only applies to people who are on a computer that's rubbish, and if that's you... go do yourself a favor and upgrade! You'll thank me I'm sure.

If you're ready to get serious go check out: Part 2.

Here's a sneak peek at what you'll be able to do after you've read my full How To.