Adjusting your computer's settings

Adjusting your computer's settings

When you start using a new computer, you may want to begin by adjusting the computer's settings. Adjusting your settings can range from simple tasks such as changing your desktop background to more advanced tasks like adjusting your security or keyboard settings. On PCs, the Control Panel is used to adjust settings. On Macs, you'll use System Preferences.

To access your computer's settings:

• In Windows 7 or earlier, click the Start button, then select Control Panel.
  
• In Windows 8, you can open the Control Panel directly from the Start screen. Using your keyboard, typeControl Panel and press the Enter key.
  
• On a Mac, click the Apple icon, then select System Preferences.
  

For more information on changing settings on a PC, check out the Adjusting Your Settings lesson in ourWindows Basics tutorial.

For more information on changing settings on a Mac, take a look at the Adjusting Your Settings lesson in our OS X Basics tutorial.