Objective 1.4: Configure the Operating System to Support Applications

Windows XP provides a configurable platform with which to organize, launch, and switch between applications. In addition to providing the overall interface that you use for managing applications, Windows XP also provides services to the applications themselves—services such as file access and security, printing, and network connectivity.

As a DST, you should know how to configure Windows XP to support the use of applications. This knowledge includes configuring Windows XP elements, such as the desktop, Start menu, taskbar, and notification to best suit the way a user works with applications. From a troubleshooting standpoint, you must be able to isolate operating system problems from application problems, and also understand how each affects the other.

To answer the questions in this objective, you should know how to configure the Windows desktop, especially with regard to launching and managing running applications. You should also be able to solve basic operating system issues involving the major desktop features.