- Helps you get the most out of the Windows XP operating system
- Tricks and tips to speed up startup and shutdown and system performance
- Tweak the interface and remove or change "unchangeable" desktop icons
- User should be "comfortable" with the concept of editing the registry
- O'Reilly Publishing's Hacks series brings respect back to being called a "hacker"
- Filled with tips and tricks to help you get the maximum performance from your Windows XP system
- Make Windows XP more efficient or just customize it to look and act the way you want it to
- For more hacks you can also visit the web site at http://hacks.oreilly.com
Before the media hijacked the term to apply ubiquitously to all things malicious regarding computer security, hacking was a noble profession and being called a "hacker" was more a term of respect than one of disparagement. This book collects the tips, tricks and tools of many of these old-school hackers to share with you and help you get the most out of your Windows XP system.
While this book is not about security, there are actually a number of hacks contained within that will help you protect and secure your computer and your Internet surfing experience. There are hacks to help you stop pop-up ads and spyware, surf anonymously, stop the deluge of spam and block hidden fields in Microsoft Word from pilfering your personal data.
With a few minor edits and tweaks to the Windows Registry you can also perform wizardry such as changing the picture that displays while the operating system is booting up, speeding up the startup procedures, remove "uninstallable" utilities, speed up network browsing, improve your wireless performance, and many others.
Users who are petrified with modifying the registry should stay away, but if you can tweak a line here or there in the registry you can perform Windows XP miracles with this book.