Windows Vista may be the next big thing, but it still contains enough quirks and unaccountable behaviors to vex anyone. This unique guide not only discusses the most irritating features of the latest Microsoft operating system and how to get around them, but also explains how to improve Windows and do more with the software than Microsoft intended. You'll find information on setup, installation, upgrade from other Windows versions, the revamped interface, new security features, user accounts, troubleshooting, and the markedly improved Internet Explorer 7. Other chapters cover a wide range of key topics: * Media Center - tips on photos, videos, music, TV tuners, HD, and the media center engine * The Registry - explains the background and tools for working with Windows' database of settings * Tinkering Techniques - offers hacking-style customization and problem-solving topics * Networking and Wireless - includes LAN setup, WiFi sniffers and access points, connection sharing, firewalls, routers, and FTP * Scripting and Automation - introduces simple programming using the Windows Scripting Host for automating repetitive tasks No other book takes our patented cranky, solutions-oriented approach. Our collection of tips, tools and techniques will improve your experience with Windows Vista, so you can control the OS — rather than the other way around.

The recent release of Microsoft's latest Windows operating system received mixed reviews, with many users complaining about loading speed, quirky logic and the dreaded User Account Control. Karp, a freelance technology writer and founder of Annoyances.org, shows Vista users and programmers how to circumvent these problems through exploring, managing and some old-fashioned hacking. This guide offers a comprehensive set of troubleshooting protocols, and also offers tips on how to make this OS perform flawlessly in the context of a larger network. A free online edition of this book is available with purchase. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)