What is the Settings menu used for?

The Settings menu allows you to control your device including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, notifications, apps, storage, sound, and other system options.

How do I open Settings on any smartphone?

You can open Settings by tapping the gear icon, using the app list, or swiping down to access the quick settings panel.

How do I open Settings on Android?

On Android devices, you can swipe up to open the app list or swipe down to open quick settings and tap the gear icon.

How do I open Settings on iPhone?

On iPhone, tap the Settings app on the home screen or use the search function by swiping down and typing Settings.

How do I open Settings on Windows?

On Windows, you can press Windows + I, use the search bar, or open the quick settings panel and click the gear icon.

What should I do if the Settings icon disappeared?

Open the app list, find the Settings app, then press and hold the icon and drag it back to the home screen to restore it.

What is the fastest way to open Settings?

The fastest way is to swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon on most devices.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

Will resetting Windows delete my files?

No, if you choose 'Keep my files'. However, all installed programs and applications will be removed during the reset process.

How long does a Windows reset take?

A Windows reset usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your computer. Modern PCs equipped with an SSD often complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes, while older computers with a traditional HDD usually take longer.

No. Windows is automatically reinstalled during the reset process. All system files are replaced with fresh copies, so you won't lose your operating system.

Do I need an Internet connection to reset Windows?

Not always. A Local reinstall does not require an Internet connection. However, the Cloud download option requires Internet access to download the Windows installation files.

Does resetting Windows remove viruses?

In most cases, yes. For the best chance of removing viruses, malware, and other unwanted software, choose the 'Remove everything' option when resetting your PC.

Can I keep Windows but delete all my personal data?

Yes. Resetting your PC allows you to erase all your personal files, but it also removes all installed applications. If you want to keep your software, create a new Windows user account, move your files if needed, then delete the old account instead.

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The 10 Essential Apps Every Windows PC Should Have Essential Apps to Use on Windows

Your Windows PC comes with several built-in apps, such as the Photos app, which lets you easily view and organize your pictures. While these default apps are useful, installing a few additional programs can greatly improve your computer's performance, security, and everyday usability.

In this guide, we've selected 10 essential Windows apps that we believe every PC user should have. Best of all, every app on this list is completely free to download and use. Let's get started!

I want to learn How to Use my Smartphone

Google Chrome
ChatGPT
Canva
VLC Media Player
Adobe Acrobat Reader
7-Zip
Google Drive
LibreOffice
Bitwarden
Malwarebytes

1. Google Chrome: The Most Popular Web Browser

Google Chrome is the world's most widely used web browser, and for good reason. It's fast, secure, easy to use, and works seamlessly across Windows, Android, and other devices. If you already use Google services such as Gmail, Google Drive, or Google Photos, Chrome keeps everything synchronized automatically.

Although Microsoft Edge has improved significantly in recent years, many people still prefer Chrome because of its speed, extensive extension library, and tight integration with Google services. Chrome also uses Google Search by default, which remains the most popular search engine thanks to its fast and relevant search results.

Whether you're browsing the web, shopping online, watching videos, or accessing your favorite websites, Google Chrome offers a smooth and reliable experience for everyday use.

Download Google Chrome

2. ChatGPT: Your AI Assistant for Everyday Tasks

ChatGPT is one of the most useful apps you can install on your Windows PC. Powered by artificial intelligence, it can answer questions, explain complex topics, write emails, summarize documents, translate text, brainstorm ideas, and even help you learn new skills.

Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply using your computer at home, ChatGPT can save you time and make everyday tasks easier. You can use it to troubleshoot computer problems, plan trips, create shopping lists, improve your writing, or get step-by-step instructions for almost anything.

The free version already offers a wide range of features, making ChatGPT an essential tool for millions of people around the world.

Visit ChatGPT

3. Canva: Create Professional Designs in Minutes

Canva is a free graphic design app that makes it easy for anyone to create beautiful visuals, even without design experience. With thousands of ready-made templates, you can quickly design presentations, invitations, resumes, flyers, social media posts, greeting cards, and much more.

Simply choose a template, customize the text, colors, and images, then download or share your finished design in just a few clicks. Canva also includes powerful AI features that can generate images, remove backgrounds, and help you create professional-looking content faster than ever.

Whether you're creating a birthday invitation, a school project, or marketing materials for your business, Canva is one of the easiest and most versatile design tools available.

Visit Canva

Tutorial - Reseting a PC while removing your files

4. VLC Media Player: Play Almost Any Video or Audio File

VLC Media Player is one of the most popular media players in the world, and for good reason. It's completely free, lightweight, and supports almost every video and audio format without requiring additional codecs or software.

Whether you're watching movies, home videos, or clips recorded on your smartphone, VLC delivers excellent video quality and smooth playback. It can also play DVDs, CDs, online streams, and even damaged or partially downloaded media files that other players may struggle to open.

If you're looking for a reliable media player that simply works with virtually any file, VLC Media Player is an essential app for every Windows PC.

Download VLC Media Player

5. Adobe Acrobat Reader: The Best Way to Open PDF Files

PDF is one of the most common file formats for documents, forms, user manuals, invoices, and contracts. While most web browsers can open PDF files, Adobe Acrobat Reader offers many additional features and remains the official application created by Adobe, the company that invented the PDF format.

With Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can easily view, print, search, annotate, and fill out PDF documents. You can also sign documents electronically, making it simple to complete paperwork without printing or scanning anything. This is especially useful for contracts, forms, and other official documents.

Whether you're working, studying, or managing personal paperwork, Adobe Acrobat Reader is an essential app for every Windows PC.

Want to create a PDF from a Word document? Check out our step-by-step tutorial.

Download Adobe Acrobat Reader (At the bottom of the page)

6. 7-Zip: Open and Extract Compressed Files

Many files downloaded from the internet are compressed into formats such as ZIP, RAR, or 7Z to reduce their size and make them easier to share. 7-Zip is a free tool that lets you quickly open, extract, and create compressed files.

With just a few clicks, you can unpack software, documents, photos, and other files downloaded from websites or received by email. 7-Zip supports virtually all popular archive formats, making it one of the most useful utilities for any Windows PC.

Lightweight, fast, and easy to use, 7-Zip is an essential app you'll likely need sooner or later.

Download 7-Zip

7. Google Drive: Store, Backup, and Share Your Files

Google Drive is a free cloud storage service that lets you save your files online and access them from any device. Whether you're using a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet, your documents, photos, and videos are always available wherever you are.

Backing up your important files to Google Drive also protects them against computer crashes, theft, or accidental deletion. If your PC stops working, you can simply sign in to your Google account and recover your files in minutes.

Sharing files is just as easy. Instead of sending large email attachments, you can create a secure sharing link and give access to friends, family, or coworkers with just a few clicks.

Every Google account includes 15 GB of free cloud storage, making Google Drive an essential app for backing up and organizing your files.

Download Google Drive

8. LibreOffice: A Free Alternative to Microsoft Office

Need to write a letter, create a spreadsheet, or prepare a presentation? LibreOffice is one of the best free alternatives to Microsoft Office. It includes everything you need for everyday tasks, without requiring a subscription.

LibreOffice comes with Writer for word processing, Calc for spreadsheets, and Impress for presentations. It can also open and save Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files, making it easy to work with documents shared by friends, schools, or businesses.

If you only use office software occasionally, there's no need to pay for Microsoft 365. LibreOffice provides all the essential tools most people need, completely free of charge.

Download LibreOffice

Photo Credit : LibrOffice.org

9. Bitwarden: Store and Protect Your Passwords

Remembering dozens of passwords can be difficult, especially if you want each account to have a strong and unique password. Bitwarden is a free password manager that securely stores all your login information in one place.

Once installed, Bitwarden can automatically fill in usernames and passwords when you sign in to websites, saving you time while improving your online security. It can also generate strong passwords for new accounts, helping protect you from hackers and data breaches.

With your passwords safely encrypted and synchronized across your devices, Bitwarden is one of the easiest ways to keep your online accounts secure.

Download Bitwarden

Bitwarden - Top 10 Essential Apps to have on your laptop or computer

10. Malwarebytes Free: Remove Malware and Other Threats

Even if Windows includes built-in security with Microsoft Defender, it's still a good idea to have a second tool to check your computer for malware. Malwarebytes Free is one of the most trusted security apps for detecting and removing threats that traditional antivirus programs may miss.

It can scan your computer for malware, spyware, adware, and other potentially unwanted programs, helping keep your Windows PC clean and secure. The free version lets you perform manual scans whenever you want, making it an excellent companion to your existing antivirus software.

Easy to use and highly effective, Malwarebytes is a great app to have installed in case your computer ever becomes infected.

Download Malwarebytes Free

Conclusion

The right software can make your Windows PC more powerful, secure, and enjoyable to use. Whether you're browsing the internet, creating documents, organizing your files, or using AI to save time, these essential apps cover almost every everyday need.

The best part is that most of them are completely free, so you can build a well-equipped Windows PC without spending a fortune. Install the apps that match your needs, and you'll be ready to get the most out of your computer from day one.

Thibaut MATHIEU

Computer & Phone Guides

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Smartphone Tutorials & Windows Basics

Welcome to Premiers Clics, a free website designed to help beginners learn computer basics and use smartphones easily with our smartphone tutorials. Step-by-step guides, simple tutorials, and practical lessons for everyday use.

Thibaut MATHIEU

Editeur de Premiers Clics

Editor and writer of Premiers Clics, and author of the book “Getting Started with Computers” (only avalaible in french), I share all my computer knowledge to help you learn, using the Premiers Clics computer courses.

Also the manager of a computer support and repair company, I fully understand your needs in computer training and assistance. Every day, I answer my clients’ questions about their computers, phones, or tablets.

This experience has given me extensive knowledge in consumer digital technology, allowing me to separate fact from fiction in device protection, identify the most common user mistakes, and provide numerous tips to make the best use of PCs, smartphones, and tablets.