Vista Network Center

Probably one of the more user-friendly updates to the Windows Operating System is the Network Center in Vista. While there is no magic networking button you push, Vista has put all of the general networking options together on a page that will help you visually configure and view your network. While XP had a very limited version of this, Vista has made it easy to view your connection and work to diagnose problems with your connection.

The Status Section

At the top of the Network Center, you'll find the Status of your network. This area will display what network your computer is currently connected to and if it has successfully reached the Internet. This is a visual representation of the network's infrastructure, so if you're not connected, this will be shown by a large red X across the trouble area. For instance, if you have successfully connected to the gateway, but not the Internet, you'll see a green connection to the gateway, but a red X across the connection from the gateway to the Internet. This is a great troubleshooting tool, as it shows precisely where the trouble is with your connection. It also has an extended map that you can use to view multiple devices on the network.

Windows Network Diagnostic

If your PC becomes disconnected from the Internet, you can use the Windows Network Diagnostic utility to get step by step suggestions on how to resolve your issue. In the past, users may have only seen a blank Internet Explorer window or a very vague dialog box stating there is a problem with your connection. Microsoft realizes that the world is becoming mobile, and jumping from network to network is becoming increasingly common, so the diagnostic utility will suggest a resolution to your connection problem.

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2. Repair Windows XP Installation
3. Vista Backup and Restore Center
4. Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
5. How to Uninstall Vista
6. Remove Microsoft Updates in XP and Vista
7. Different Windows Vista Versions
8. Command Line Utilities
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10. View Startup Programs Using Software Explorer
11. Vista Performance Rating and Monitoring
12. Internet Explorer 7 Security Features
13. Network Access Protection
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15. Parental Controls in Windows Vista
16. Use ReadyBoost to Speed up Your Computer
17. Vista BitLocker Drive Encryption
18. Recover Windows Product Key
19. DirectX Management Tool
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21. Last Known Good Configuration
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24. Improve Windows Vista Performance
25. Enable Internet Explorer 7 Protected Mode
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