Back Cover

Back Cover

"Why didn't they ask me before they did that?"

Vista is the most radical revamping of Windows since 1995. But along with all the fantastic improvements, there are a couple of things that drive you up the wall. Maybe you're not seeing the performance you expect. Security is better, but boy, is it annoying. And what's with that interface thing that's just in the way? Well, you can fix all that. When you and Steve Sinchak are finished, you'll think Microsoft designed Vista just for you.

How to improve the view

A few of the things you'll learn to do

• Tweak logon screen settings
• Build custom Sidebar gadgets
• Personalize Aero Glass with themes and visual styles
• Customize Internet Explorer 7
• Configure BIOS for maximum boot speed
• Crank up Windows Explorer
• Turn your PC into an HDTV Media Center
• Fine-tune your firewall

About the Author

Steve Sinchak is an entrepreneur who has started several technology-related businesses. Steve is currently running a web development firm known as Advanced PC Media LLC, which owns and operates several Web sites geared toward computer enthusiasts. In addition to writing for his Web sites and running Advanced PC Media LLC, he works as a Systems Engineer for a Global 100 company in the financial services sector.

Steve has been working with computers for more than 15 years. Starting with a desktop that had a 286-based processor, 1MB of RAM, and Windows 3.1, he taught himself how to make Windows run faster on the slow hardware. Driven by a strong curiosity to understand how Windows works, he spent countless hours researching and experimenting with its inner workings and features. Over the years, he has worked closely with all versions of Windows. In 2005 and 2006, Microsoft honored him with the Most Valued Professional (MVP) award for his work with Windows and his contributions to the Windows community.