Getting to know your computer's OS
The screen you see when your computer has finished starting up is called thedesktop. Depending on what kind of operating system you have, the desktop will look different, but it generally consists of menus at the bottom, top, and/or sides of the screen, with the rest of the screen containing a desktop background (or wallpaper). The desktop background area can also contain any files, applications, or shortcuts you want to have quick access to.
Shutting down your computer
When you're done using your computer, it's important to shut it down properly. Depending on your operating system, the exact procedure for shutting down will vary.
To shut down Windows 8:
- Hover the mouse in the lower-right corner to access the Charms bar, then select Settings.
2. Click Power, then select Shut down.
To shut down Windows 7 or Vista:
- Click the Start button, then select the Shut down button (or the power button icon in Vista). You can also click the arrow to the right of the Shut down button for more options.
To shut down Windows XP:
- Click the Start button, then select Turn Off Computer.
To shut down Mac OS X:
- Click the Apple icon, then select Shut Down.
Opening applications
When you double-click a file, it will automatically open the default application for that file type. However, much of the time you'll open an application directly.
To open an application on a PC:
When you double-click a file, it will automatically open the default application for that file type. However, much of the time you'll open an application directly.
To open an application on a PC:
- Click the Start button, then select the desired application. If you don't see it, you can click All Programs to see a complete list. For convenience, commonly used applications may also have a shortcut on the taskbar or on thedesktop.
![Picture](/uploads/2/7/0/5/27051649/302168014.png)
In Windows 8, there is no Start menu, so you'll usually open applications from the Start screen. To learn more, check out our lesson on Getting Started with Windows 8.
To open an application on a Mac:
- Click the application's icon on the Dock. If you don't see it, click the Spotlight icon in the top-right corner of the screen and type the name of the application.
Adjusting your computer's settings
From time to time, you'll need to adjust your computer's settings. This can range from simple tasks such as changing your desktop background to more advanced tasks like adjusting your security or network settings. On PCs, theControl Panel is used to adjust settings. On Macs, you'll use System Preferences.
To open the Control Panel (PC):
To open the Control Panel (PC):
- Click the Start button, then select Control Panel.
2.The Control Panel will appear. You can then select the desired category to adjust the settings.
To open System Preferences (Mac):
- Click the Apple icon, then select System Preferences.
2.The System Preferences window will appear. You can then select the desired category to adjust the settings.