August 26th, 2024

Microsoft backtracks on deprecating the 39-year-old Windows Control Panel

Windows includes built-in tools for system configuration, such as the Settings app, Task Manager, and Event Viewer, allowing users to customize settings and monitor performance effectively.

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Microsoft backtracks on deprecating the 39-year-old Windows Control Panel

Windows offers a range of built-in system configuration tools designed to help users customize and manage their devices effectively. These tools cater to both novice and advanced users, allowing for precise adjustments to system settings. Key tools include the Settings app, which serves as the primary interface for managing Windows configurations, and Task Manager, which monitors system performance and resource usage. The Computer Management console provides a centralized location for managing various system components, while the Event Viewer allows users to track system and application events for troubleshooting purposes. Other important utilities include System Configuration for startup management, System Information for hardware and software details, and the Registry Editor for low-level system settings. The Local Group Policy Editor is available for managing local policies, and Advanced System Settings offers access to additional configuration options. Each tool has specific access methods, and users are advised to proceed with caution, especially when making changes that could affect system stability.

- Windows provides various built-in tools for system configuration and management.

- The Settings app is the main interface for customizing Windows settings.

- Task Manager helps monitor system performance and manage running applications.

- Advanced tools like the Registry Editor and Local Group Policy Editor require careful handling.

- Each tool has specific access methods to facilitate user interaction.

Link Icon 5 comments
By @nerdjon - 5 months
That is just so lovingly on brand for every UI transition Microsoft has attempted to do with Windows since Vista.

I get it, this is a lot of work and there are a lot of things that need to change. But having 2 places for system settings is wild.

By @Terretta - 5 months
Three days ago HN discussed the deprecation here:

Deprecation discussion: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41331851

However, the same Ars URL now bears this post's headline, with a new story that points to this support document with updated language removing the deprecation notice:

Revised article: https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/08/microsoft-formally-d...

Support doc basis: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/system-configura...

By @gjvc - 5 months
As a company, they seem to have lost their way with Windows as a usable desktop operating system on every desk and in every home.

I'm sure there are still great programmers working on it, but outwardly, the appearance is awful.

By @jessekv - 5 months
If you have to use Windows and want maximum configuration, try Microsoft PowerToys.
By @papichulo2023 - 5 months
Man that was fast, I thought it wa going to take them 5 years to re introduce it.