Windows - Tips'n'Tricks

Replacement for standart Windows Task Manager

Friday, 04 June 2010 16:56 |

Written by tushev |

Despite Windows Task Manager is a well-balanced program, there are more options to be desired. First of all, I'd like to be able to see the whole process structure - including hidden processes and the sequence of calling. As well I'd like to see more information on each process - including it's libraries, open network connections, perfomance statistics, command line parameters etc.

Process Explorer from Sysinternals has all of this features. It's a lightweight (~4MB, 1.5 MB zipped) and useful program. It can be downloaded from Microsoft TechNet - http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb896653.aspx.

I installed this program once, and never more used ordinary task manager. Process explorer completele replaces its functionallty, as well adding a bunch of new capabilities and tools. So I activated Options->Replace Task Manager ;-)

Using Recovery console to restore and backup system registry

Friday, 04 June 2010 16:18 |

Written by tushev |

We all know that it's diffucult to make backup of Windows registry. This is because OS prevents direct access to the files, even for reading, so we have to use an alternate tools. But when you are running a Recovery console (as well as any other OS) you can access those files, copy and replace them.

Putting yourself on a safe ground - installing a recovery console

Friday, 04 June 2010 16:09 |

Written by tushev |

This tip is suitable only if you are running Windows XP, 2000, 2003 Server, MCE 2005. Windows Vista and 7 do not include this feature - look here for more info: http://windowslive.com/Connect/Post/E8E5CC039D51E3DB-2123982

Windows Recovery console is a tool that helps you to recover your OS from serious errors. In fact, it's a small operating system from Microsoft (but incapable of running any programs, except several built-in commands). It is available from some installation CDs (when booting from them), but as well you can always install it on a hard drive - indo a hidden folder, cmdcons, on a boot partition.

To install it, press Win+R, type cmd, press ok, then type X:\i386\winnt32 /cmdcons (replace X with actual letter of your optical drive). After installation, a new option appears in your boot menu - it's a Recovery console. If a problem occures, you can use it to fix the issues.

Using command line to close hanged apps

Friday, 04 June 2010 16:07 |

Written by tushev |

Sometimes we find ourseleves in situation, in which an app hanged up(especially a full screen one), but we still have control over the machine - we can use start menu, other app etc. However, we cannot see what's going on because of the hanged app (and remove it from running processes in Task Manager (or Process Explorer).

tushev.org