Windows Apps settings
Installed apps, optional features, and what runs on startup.
- Apps & FeaturesApps & Features lists every application installed on your PC, including size, install date, and whether it came from the Microsoft Store or a traditional installer. From here you can uninstall software you no longer need, modify or repair certain apps, and move installed apps to a different drive to free up space on your main disk.
- Optional FeaturesOptional Features lets you install additional Windows components that aren't part of the default setup, such as OpenSSH Client, additional language handwriting packs, or legacy tools like Windows Media Player. It's a separate list from Windows Features (the older 'Turn Windows features on or off' dialog), which handles larger platform components like Hyper-V or .NET Framework 3.5.
- Startup AppsStartup Apps controls which programs automatically launch in the background when you sign in to Windows. Each app is labeled with an impact rating (Low, Medium, or High) based on how much it slows down startup, so you can quickly identify and disable the ones actually worth turning off.
- Clipboard HistoryClipboard settings let you keep a scrollable history of everything you've recently copied, not just the single most recent item, and paste from any entry using Win+V. You can also sync your clipboard across multiple PCs signed into the same Microsoft account and pin frequently used snippets so they don't get pushed out by newer copies.
- Multitasking & Virtual DesktopsMultitasking settings control Snap layouts (arranging windows into preset grid positions), Snap Assist behavior, and how Alt+Tab and virtual desktops handle switching between open windows. These features let you organize multiple apps on screen simultaneously and keep unrelated tasks separated across different virtual desktops.
- Video PlaybackVideo playback settings control how Windows plays video content, including automatic quality adjustments, HDR video streaming, and battery-saving options for video apps.
- Offline MapsOffline maps lets you download regional map data to your device so the Maps app and navigation features work without an active internet connection.
- Apps for WebsitesApps for websites shows which installed apps are registered to open links from specific websites directly, instead of opening them in a browser.
- App Execution AliasesApp execution aliases, found under Advanced app settings, let you enable or disable command-line names that launch installed apps directly from a terminal or the Run box.
- Phone LinkPhone Link pairs your smartphone with your PC so you can view and reply to texts, see notifications, make calls, and access photos without picking up your phone.
Other Windows categories
- SystemKeep your device current and configure core system behavior.
- Privacy & SecurityControl which apps can access your camera, microphone, and data.
- Network & InternetWi-Fi, Bluetooth, and network connection settings.
- Display & SoundScreen, audio, and alert preferences.
- Storage & BackupManage space, back up your data, and stay protected against loss.
- Accounts & FamilyAccount sign-in, sync, and family/parental controls.
- AccessibilityAssistive features, input, and language & region settings.
- TroubleshootingReset, restart, and diagnose common issues.
- PersonalizationThemes, wallpaper, lock screen, and layout of your device.
- DevicesMice, keyboards, trackpads, printers, and other connected hardware.
- System InfoDevice details, advanced settings, and activation status.