7. Working with Programs

Chapter at a Glance

In this chapter, you will learn to:
	Install and remove programs.
	Start programs automatically.
	Specify the default program for a type of file.
	Use the programs that come with Windows Vista.
	Use and modify Sidebar.

Nowadays you can purchase a computer, plug it in, and start working without installing any additional software. New name-brand computers usually come with the operating system (in this case, Windows Vista) already installed. They often also include software packages that provide the programs you need to carry out specific tasks, such as word processing. Sooner or later, however, you will want to install additional programs, from a CD, a network server, or a Web site.

Most programs place a link on the Start menu. You can start the program by clicking that link or by opening a file of a type that is associated with the program. For example, double-clicking an image file in Windows Explorer starts Windows Photo Gallery and then displays the graphic. You can change the program associated with a file type. For example, if you are more likely to want to work with photographs in an image-editing program, you can instruct Windows to open any file with a .jpg extension in that program when you double-click it. To save time, you can have Windows start programs for you, when you log on to the computer. You can easily change a few settings to make working with programs more efficient.

When you are ready, you will want to explore the programs that come with Windows Vista. Some of these programs are in the form of gadgets displayed on Windows Sidebar that keep tools such as a calculator or notepad immediately available. Others are stand-alone programs that provide tools to help you perform common tasks, such as scheduling appointments, keeping track of contact information, communicating via e-mail, or collaborating with co-workers. Previously you might have had to purchase a special software program to provide these functions that now come already installed. Although you still have that option, these built-in programs can provide invaluable time-saving support by putting specialized tools at your fingertips.

In this chapter, you will learn about installing new programs on your computer and removing programs you no longer need. You will set up a program to start automatically when you turn on your computer, and you will specify which program will open files of a particular type when you double-click them. Finally, you will take a tour of some of the programs that come with Windows Vista, and you will experiment with Sidebar.