Discover Hidden Features in Windows You’ve Overlooked After Years of Use

Windows is a powerful operating system filled with features that can enhance your experience, many of which remain overlooked even by long-time users. Are you aware of these hidden capabilities that could streamline your workflow and boost productivity?

8 Task Scheduler

The Task Scheduler is a valuable utility that enables you to automate specific tasks on your computer at scheduled times, including those that recur regularly. Though it may appear complex at first, mastering this tool opens up a world of possibilities, such as launching your essential applications automatically upon login or establishing routine scripts for file cleanup.

To access Task Scheduler, simply type “task scheduler”into the Start menu’s search bar. The interface features a multi-pane layout: folders on the left, tasks in the center, and options to the right. You will likely find numerous pre-existing tasks created by various applications as well as built-in ones located under Microsoft > Windows.

Disable UpdateOrchestrator in Task-Scheduler — Screenshot by Jayric Maning –no attributions required

To create a new task, click on Create Task in the sidebar; be aware that Create Basic Task only accommodates straightforward tasks like launching a program or displaying a message. Delving into the full application provides greater flexibility.

Make good use of the options found under the Conditions and Settings tabs. The former enables you to set parameters such as waiting for an idle computer state or waking a sleeping PC, while the latter allows you to control actions if a task encounters failure or exceeds its time limit.

7 Quick Assist

If you have ever used remote assistance tools like TeamViewer, you’ll appreciate Quick Assist, which is integrated into Windows. This feature allows you to provide help to someone else by viewing their screen and controlling it if needed.

To utilize Quick Assist, search for it in the Start menu. Upon opening, select Help someone if you are the one assisting; doing so will generate a code for your partner to enter. There’s also an option to Give instructions for the other person to follow, making the process simpler, especially if you cannot view their screen directly.

Quick Assist app on Windows 11 — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

After the individual enters the code, you gain access to their screen along with features such as a laser pointer and chat functionalities. If the other party wishes, you can request control of their device, allowing you to operate it directly (pending their approval).

However, exercise caution when allowing remote access to your computer; trust is paramount, as there are scams that exploit these tools for fraudulent purposes.

6 Dynamic Lock

Dynamic Lock enhances security by automatically locking your PC when the Bluetooth connection with your smartphone weakens. This feature is particularly useful for preventing unauthorized access if you forget to manually lock your device when you leave your workstation.

To enable Dynamic Lock, navigate to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and check the box for Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away. If you have not yet paired your phone with your computer, you will need to go to Bluetooth & devices to do so.

Setting up Windows Dynamic Lock feature — Screenshot by Jayric Maning –no attributions required

The Phone Link feature provides additional advantages, making it worthwhile to set up if you haven’t yet explored its benefits.

5 Built-in Screen Recording

No need for third-party applications when you require screen recording capabilities; Windows includes a straightforward option. Press Win + Shift + S to launch the Snipping Tool, which not only allows for screenshots but also features a simple screen recording function.

To start, click on the Video icon in the tool’s interface, then select the area you would like to record. You can toggle the icons to capture audio from both the microphone and the system sound. Once finished, your recording will open in an editor, providing options to trim, copy, convert to a GIF, or export to Clipchamp for advanced editing.

The Snipping Tool screen recording feature menu in Windows 11 — Image by Abhishek Kumar Mishra — no attribution

Your screen recordings will be conveniently stored in [Your username] > Videos > Screen Recordings.

4 Windows Sandbox

Windows Sandbox is one of the platform’s most underrated features, providing a virtual environment to safely execute applications without impacting your primary operating system. It’s an ideal solution for testing new software or running potentially harmful files without risk.

Windows Sandbox with folder mapping and disabled networking — Screenshot by Jayric Maning –no attributions required

For a deeper dive into Windows Sandbox and its security benefits, consider checking out our comprehensive overview.

3 File Explorer Check Boxes

When managing multiple files in File Explorer, using the Ctrl or Shift keys to select items can be cumbersome. A handy alternative involves enabling checkboxes in File Explorer for easier selections. To activate this feature, open a File Explorer window, click on View, then select Show > Item check boxes.

Windows Enable Check Boxes File Explorer — Screenshot by Ben Stegner; no attribution required

This change allows you to select items effortlessly across File Explorer, in addition to conventional keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + A for selecting all files in a folder.

2 Live Captions

While various video platforms offer automatic captioning, Windows provides a Live Captions feature that caters to scenarios where captions are unavailable or inconsistent. This tool ensures a smoother viewing experience.

To activate Live Captions, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Captions and enable the option. You can toggle it at any time using Win + Ctrl + L.

Using live captions on a video in Windows 11 — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

If you enjoy communicating with emojis, Windows has simplified access to a wide array of them. Press Win + Period to open an emoji menu that includes GIFs, emoticons, and a handy search function for quick access to the perfect symbol, ensuring you can express yourself fully, just like on mobile devices.

A screenshot showing the emoji picker tool on a Windows PC — Screenshot by Adaeze Uche

Be mindful of how you use popular emojis to avoid common mistakes!

Windows is rich with features that often go unnoticed until you actively seek them out. Exploring these tools can not only change how you interact with the operating system but can also lead to discovering new capabilities that enhance your overall user experience.

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