Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
LECTURE NOTES
CHAPTER OUTLINE
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
 How to avert hard drive problems and how to
avert conditions that can cause data errors will
be discussed.
 Will learn the purpose and function of and then
use Check Disk, Disk Cleanup, Disk
Defragmenter, and Task Scheduler.
 The importance of and procedures for backing
up and restoring files are discussed.
 Will create an Automated System Recovery
Disk for start up problems.
 The purpose and function of the Registry will
be discussed.
 Will use the Computer Management tool to
explore and manage your computer system.
DETECTING AND REPAIRING DISK
ERRORS WITH CHECK DISK
 Detecting and Repairing Disk Errors with
Check Disk
 Physical hard drive problems.
 Wear and tear on hard disk.
 Minimize problem and conserve
power with
 Power Management.
 Hibernation.
 Head crash.
 Minimize – place system where it
will not get knocked around.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
TEACHING SUGGESTIONS
SLIDES 2-7
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Chapter Overview duplicated in PowerPoint
slides.
After completion of lecture, suggest to students
that they review Objectives and Outcomes
found on first page of chapter as a check to see
if they have mastered concepts.
SECTION 13.1 (pp. 720-723)
SLIDES 8-20
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A truism – not if you will have problems with
hard drive, but when.
Support power management
Places computer on standby (when idle).
Monitor/hard disks turned off.
Computer uses less power.
Minimize wear on system.
Hibernation.
Turns off monitor/hard disk.
Saves everything in memory on disk.
Turns off computer.
Head crash = Hard disk failure.
Read/write head comes into contact with
platter
Magnetic coating where data recorded
damaged.
Page 1
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
Software-related hard drive problems.
 Virus = A program that has damaging side
 Viruses.
effects.
 Causes.
Can be intentional/unintentional.
Can destroy computer’s hard disk/data.
 Installing infected program.
 Using a data file that has an
 Popular virus protection programs: Norton
embedded virus.
AntiVirus and Network Associates (formerly
 To minimize.
McAfee) VirusScan.
 Purchase antivirus program.
 Surge protector (surge suppressor) =
Error causing conditions that may be
Prevents surges from reaching computer.
repairable.
 UPS (Uninterruptible power supply) =- Power surges.
Provides backup power supply.
 Minimize with surge protector.
 Locked system = Keyboard, mouse, and
 Power outages.
program are frozen.
 Minimize with UPS.
 NTFS (New Technology File system)
 Locked system.
 Volume = disk partition.
 Minimize by following shutdown
 Chain = A pointer, (when referring to FAT),
process.
that links clusters together.
Check Disk comes with WXP
 Locates/repairs problems on hard disk.  Lost clusters
Marked by WXP as being in use but not
 Checks for logical errors in file system.
representing
any part of the chain of a file.
 Invalid entries in tables that keep
Fat
knows
clusters are occupied by data – does
track of file locations
not know to which file clusters belong.
 Problems that involve physical disk,
Clusters have no directory entry in directory
lost clusters or cross-linked files.
table and do not belong to any file.
Lost clusters – not uncommon.
Lost clusters are debris resulting from
 FAT/directory work together to define
incomplete data.
where/what files are.
 Lost files converted into files
 Each file has entry in directory table
View contents - see if you want data.
which points to starting cluster in FAT.
Files stored in root directory.
 If file longer than one cluster Have extensions of .chk.
FAT pointer leads to next cluster
 Pointers chain together all clusters
Discussion Question (1) What are three
that make up file.
occurrences that can cause a loss of data on a hard
 If pointer lost – chain broken.
drive?
 Broken chain is lost cluster
Discussion Question (2) – What is the purpose and
 Incorrectly marked by FAT as used
function of the Check Disk program that comes
- Unavailable for new data.
with Windows XP Professional?
 Lost clusters
 Belong to no file.
 Cannot be retrieved/deleted.
 Data useless.
 Lose disk space.
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Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 2
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
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Reasons for lost clusters.
 Not exiting program properly.
 Power surge/failures.
Check Disk
 Fix lost clusters automatically or
 Save them to disk as files.
Cross-Linked Files.
 Two or more files claim same cluster as
part of their chain.
 One file claims same cluster twice.
Data in cross-linked file.
 Usually correct for only one file.
 May not be correct for any file.
Check Disk
 CAN check/repair local hard drives,
floppy disks, and removable drives.
 CANNOT find/fix errors on CD-ROMs
or network drives.
 Only used on actual physical drives
connected to system.
 System must have exclusive access to
disk to complete job.
 Use on a regular basis.
 When using – close all open
programs.
 Dealing with disk structure.
 Open files/programs can cause data
loss/corrupt files, etc.
If disk (volume) formatted as NTFS, WXP
automatically (without running Check
Disk)
 Logs all file transactions.
 Replaces bad clusters.
 Stores copies of key information for all
files on NTFS volume.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 3
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
ACTIVITY—USING CHECK DISK
 Using Check Disk
 MYDATADISK disk should be in Drive A.
 Activity steps.
 Open Windows Explorer
 Click My Computer
 Right-click Drive A icon
 Click Properties/Tools/Check Now/ Start/
OK/OK.
 Close all open windows
 Activity completed.
SECTION 13.2 (pp. 723-725)
CLEANING UP YOUR DISK
 Cleaning Up Your Disk
 Hard drive determines computer’s
performance.
 All files stored on hard disk.
 Want easy/quick access to files.
 Need disk space for
 New files.
 Temporary files that programs
create.
 Documents waiting to be printed.
 Cache files.
 Recycle bin.
 If files/caches not deleted frequently
 Hard drive runs out of space.
 System performance slowed down.
 Disk Cleanup.
 Utility tool.
 Helps maintain disk space.
 Intended for hard drives.
SECTION 13.3 (p. 725)
ACTIVITY—USING DISK CLEANUP
 Using Disk Cleanup
 Activity steps.
 Click
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Start/Programs/Accessories
System Tools/Disk Cleanup
Down arrow in drop-down list box
Outside drop-down list box/OK
Recycle Bin/View Files command button
Close Recycle Bin
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
SLIDE 21
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Choose error checking – invoke Check Disk
Two check disk options:
Automatically fix file system errors
Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors
Selecting this option automatically activates
first option.
Status bar indicates program’s progression.
SLIDES 22-24
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Cache = storage area for often used
information that can be accessed quickly.
Many programs do not delete temporary files.
Discussion Question (3) – What is a cache?
Discussion Question (4) – What is the purpose of
Disk Cleanup? What benefits do you gain from
running this program?
SECTION 13.4 (pp. 726-730)
SLIDE 25
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Analysis of students’ computers not the same.
Be sure to view files before eliminating them.
Discuss other options that free up disk space.
Page 4
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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Click
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More Options tab/Clean Up (under
Windows Components)/Cancel
Clean Up (in Disk cleanup window under
Installed Programs)/Close
Clean Up (in disk Cleanup window under
System Restore)
No/Disk cleanup tab/OK/Yes
Start/All Programs/Accessories
System Tools/Disk Cleanup/OK/Cancel
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Activity completed.
CONTIGUOUS AND NONCONTIGUOUS
 Contiguous and Noncontiguous Files
 To store and retrieve files (data).
 Disk divided into sectors (numbered
blocks).
 Sectors grouped into clusters.
 Cluster set of contiguous sectors.
 Number of sectors in cluster on
hard disk varies – depends on:
 Size of hard drive.
 How it was installed.
 File (usually) larger than one cluster.
 WXP keeps track of location of all file
parts.
 When File deleted in FAT or FAT32
 Only entries in FAT deleted.
 Space file occupied available.
 Writing files to a disk.
 WXP tries to write to adjacent cluster.
 Easier to retrieve/store information
when file is contiguous.
 Fragmented disk.
 Disk composed of noncontiguous files.
 Takes longer to read as head moves
around disk to find all parts of a file.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
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System Restore
Utility used to restore computer to a previous
state if a problem occurs with WXP
Works with WXP files and Registry
Does not affect data files.
WXP creates a restore point daily and at time of
significant events (installing new program/new
device driver/etc.
System restore points take up lots of disk space.
Discussion Question (19) – What is the purpose
and function of System Restore?
Discussion Question (20) – What is a restore
point?
SECTION 13.5 (pp. 730-731)
SLIDES 26-30
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WXP keeps track of data (grouped into files).
File = Program, or collection of related
information (data) stored on a disk.
Contiguous - in contact or touching.
Contiguous files = Files written to adjacent
clusters on a disk.
Noncontiguous files = Files written to a disk
in nonadjacent clusters.
Sector = portion of a track (data stored in
tracks) that is 512 bytes long.
Clusters = Smallest unit WXP handles.
Discussion Question (5) - Compare and contrast
contiguous and noncontiguous files.
Page 5
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE OF DISKS
 Optimizing the Performance of Disks
 Defragger, disk optimization program or
disk defragger.
 Utility program fixes fragmented disk.
 Moves data around on a disk to make
files contiguous.
 Directory table and FAT rewritten so
new locations of files are available.
 Prior to running Disk Defragmenter.
 Run Check Disk and Disk Cleanup.
 Remove all lost or cross-linked
clusters/unnecessary files.
 Close all open programs.
 Allow ample time.
 Back up disk as program
manipulates disk.
 Disk Defragmenter used only on local
drives.
 Must have administrator privileges to use
this utility program.
ACTIVITY—USING DISK
DEFRAGMENTER
 Using Disk Defragmenter
 Place MYDATADISK disk in Drive A.
 Activity steps.
 Click Start/My Computer
 Right-click Drive A icon
 Click Properties/Tools tab/Defragment
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Now/OK/Drive C/Analyze button/View
Report
Scroll to bottom of Volume Information list
box
Click Close
If you have another drive, select it
Click Analyze
When analysis is complete Click View
Report and scroll to bottom of Volume
Information list box then Click Close
Close all open windows
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.6 (p. 731)
SLIDES 31-32
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Defragger (disk optimization program) = A
means to optimize performance on a disk.
Rearranges files/programs/empty spaces on
hard drive.
Not a disk compression program
-----Does not compress data.
In System Tools, WXP provides Disk
Defragmenter
Good time to run disk defragmenter program is
overnight, or when away from computer.
Cannot use Disk Defragmenter on
floppy/network.
If disk defragmenter program run every couple
of weeks decreases running time as program
will have less to do.
Discussion Question (6) - How does the Disk
Defragmenter utility help optimize disk
performance?
Discussion Question (7) - List and explain two
factors that should be considered before
defragmenting your disk.
SECTION 13.7 (pp. 731-735)
SLIDE 33
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Floppy disks cannot be defragmented.
Can start defragment from menus or from a
property sheet
Line color indicates file’s current status.
Volume Information reports statistics describe
volume size, cluster size, and used, free and
percentage of free space.
Show students how to interpret Analysis
display bar.
Discuss View Report.
Activity completed.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 6
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
STARTING PROGRAMS
SECTION 13.8 (pp. 735-736)
AUTOMATICALLY
SLIDES 34-35
 Starting Programs Automatically
 Task Scheduler.
 Task Scheduler = wizard for scheduling any
 Can schedule any program to run at any
program to run at any time.
selected time.
 Example of using Task Scheduler:
 Make sure program
Dial online during off-hours, search for
 Does not need user input.
certain topics, download results, hang up.
 Can exit when task completed.
Need program for this task before it could
 Can be used to schedule tasks such as
be scheduled.
Disk Cleanup or Backup.
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ACTIVITY—USING TASK SCHEDULER
 Using Task Scheduler
 Activity steps
 Click Start/All Programs/Accessories/
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System Tools/Scheduled Tasks/View/Tiles
Double-click Add Scheduled Task
Click Next/Disk Cleanup/Next/Weekly/
Next/Sunday/Next
Enter password in second and third text
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boxes
Click Next/Finish/View/Refresh/Advanced
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(on menu bar)
Close menu
Click Disk Cleanup/<Delete> key/Yes
Close Scheduled Tasks window/all open
windows.
Activity completed.
BACKING UP YOUR DATA
 Backing Up Your Data
 Critical task (often neglected).
 Backup = duplicate of file (s) on a disk
copied to another medium.
 Retrieve files by restoring them to original
medium.
 Advantage of backup vs. copy.
 Backup file can span multiple backup
disks.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Discussion Question (8) – List and explain two
ways that the Task Scheduler wizard could be used.
SECTION 13.9 (pp. 736-740)
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SLIDE 36
Can schedule program to run at almost any
interval
Must identify user responsible for starting
this task by keying in user’s name and logon
password.
When clicking Advanced on menu bar can:
Pause or stop using Task Scheduler.
Look at log of completed tasks.
Notified of any missed tasks.
Task Scheduler files have extension of .job.
SECTION 13.10 (pp. 740-743)
SLIDES 37-46
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Backup = Making copy of file for safekeeping.
Prior - used floppies - time consuming.
Now - use tape backup unit, removable
drive (Zip or Jaz drives), or special tapes.
Discuss difference in backing up files on
different types of media.
Making back ups critical – if data on hard disk
lost – no need to recreate it (can copy data back
to hard drive from tape/floppy/etc.)
For back ups to be useful, need to back up data
regularly.
Page 7
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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Working with WXP
 Create settings, install/delete programs.
 Adding/making changes to system
Registry.
 If Registry corrupt – cannot boot
WXP
 With backup – restore to what you had
previously.
Backup program supplied with WXP
supports five methods of backups:
 Normal or Full backup
 Copies all files from hard drive to
backup medium.
 Archive bit turned off after files are
backed up.
 Archive bit OFF – Backup
knows file has been copied.
 File edited - archive bit turned ON.
 Copying file – attribute not altered
by copy routine.
 Archive bit altered by certain
programs such as Backup.
 Incremental Backup.
 Only copies files that have changed
or created since last normal or
incremental backup.
 Marks files as having been backed
up by clearing archive bit.
 Differential backup.
 Copies files that have changed or
created since last normal or
incremental backup.
 Does not mark files as having been
backed up.
 Does not clear archive bit.
 Daily Backup
 Backs up modified files only on day
backup performed.
 Files not marked as having been
backed up.
 Archive bit is not cleared.
 Option requires Backup run on
daily basis.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
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Archive bit = File attribute (archive flag).
Gives backup history of a file.
Archiving file = Archiving to save a file
usually refers to long-term storage.
Full backup = Backup procedure that backs up
every file on a disk.
Full system backup does what full back up
does, but also copies system files including
Registry.
Registry = Contains all of system’s settings
and allows system to function properly.
Differential backup = Backs up all selected
files that have changed since the last time an
All selected files backup was used.
Incremental backup = Only backs up files
that have changed since last full or incremental
backup.
Archive data = Information stored in archive
files. (See Archive Bit above).
- Archiving a file removes a file from hard disk
and stores it on another medium for historical
purposes.
Compare and contrast differential and
incremental backups.
- Incremental saves time when doing backup.
- Differential saves time when restoring files.
Stress importance of doing test restore to be
sure restore is working.
Discuss
- Various backup mediums.
- How often backups should be done & why.
- Importance of having more than one copy of
backup.
Discussion Question (9) - Why is it important to
back up data? Programs?
Discussion Question (10) - Compare and contrast
full (normal) and incremental backups.
Discussion Question (11) – What is the difference
between using a differential backup or using the
daily option for incremental backups?
Page 8
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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Copy Backup
 Backs up selected files.
 Does not mark files as having been
backed up.
 Archive bit not cleared.
Comparing full backups to incremental
backups.
 Full backups –
 Longer to backup but shorter to
restore.
 Incremental backups
 Longer to backup but shorter to
restore.
Usually use combination of:
 Full backups and incremental backups
 Restore most recent full backup
media and all incremental media
that have changes on them.
 Takes least amount of storage
 Quickest method for backing up
 Restore takes longer – need all
tapes and disks.
 Full backups and differential backups.
 More time consuming
 Restore faster/easier because
backup data stored on fewer
disks/tapes.
 Restore most recent full backup
media and all incremental media
that have changes on them.
 Differential backup backs up
selected files that have changed
since last normal or incremental
backup.
 All files that have archive bit on are
backed up
 Backup complete – archive bit is
left on.
Need regular backup schedule.
 Determined by computer usage and
how often files are edited.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
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Discussion Question (12) - Why is it wise to have
more than one copy of your backup?
Discussion Question (13) – List and explain two
ways that the Backup Program can be used.
Page 9
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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If on network
 Network administrator – takes care of
full backup.
 You take care of data files.
Wise to have more than one copy of
backup media.
 Do not store both copies in one place
(fire and theft problems).
To access Backup
 Right-click a drive/Choose
Properties/Tools Tab/and select Backup
Now command button.
 Can also access Backup from Programs
submenu.
Backup can be used to
SECTION 13.11 (pp. 743-751)
 Archive data.
SLIDE 46
 Make room on hard disk by copying
seldom-used files to backup medium.
 Backup requires writing information to hard
 Transfer programs/files to other
disk – each system unique – steps are only one
computers.
example of how to use Backup
 Make new computer look like old
 If doing activity on PC – only doing incremental
system.
backup of some files.
ACTIVITY—USING BACKUP
 Using Backup
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Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
Place MYDATADISK disk in Drive A
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Activity steps.
 Click Start/All Programs/Accessories/
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System Tools/Backup
Switch to Wizard
Always Start in Wizard Mode should have a
check mark
Click Next/Backup files and
Settings/Next/Let me choose what to
backup/Next/plus sign next to My Computer
Expand Drive C
Locate and expand WUGXP folder
Click WUGXP in left pane – be sure not to
place a check mark in the box
In right pane locate and check boxes in
front of AST.99/AST.NEW/AST.TMP/
ASTRO.TMP/ASTRO.TXT
Click Next
Select Backup and key in ASTRO
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Should not and cannot perform this activity if
on a network.
Discuss Backup and Restore Wizard.
Backup files and settings – 4 backup choices
Personal documents and settings
Documents/settings of everyone who is a
user on system
All information on computer (includes
creating ASR disk including Registry and other
key system files.
What you want to back up
Note: default \setting is to back up My
Documents and settings.
Compare Backup Wizard window with
Explorer Window.
Wizard wants to know where to back up to.
Backup creates file.
- User decides device/file name to use.
“Discuss types of backups.
- Normal, Copy, Incremental, Differential.
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Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 10
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
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Click Next/Advanced/down arrow in drop-
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down list box/Next
Clear all options
Click Next/Next
Now is selected
Click Next/Finish/Report button
Close Notepad then Click Close
Open Windows Explorer/Drive A
Close Drive A window.
SECTION 13.12 (p. 751)
SLIDE 47
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Suggest to students to periodically do a
practice restore to ensure that backup is
working correctly (i.e., bad tape, not copying,
etc.)
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Activity completed.
RESTORE
 Restore
 Backup option/Restore Wizard
 Used to copy some/all of files to original
disk/another disk/or directory.
 Can choose which backup set to copy from.
 To restore
 Choose Restore and type of restoration.
 OR Choose Restore Wizard.
ACTIVITY—RESTORING FILES
 Restoring Files
 Activity steps.
 Click
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 Start/All Programs/Accessories
 System Tools/Backup/Next
 Restore files and settings/Next
MYDATADISK is in Drive A
Click plus sign in left pane
In right pane, click last entry in list
In left pane, click check box (next to Drive
C)/Next/Advanced command button/downarrow (in Restore files to drop-down list box)
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SECTION 13.13 (pp. 751-758)
SLIDE 48
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Activity one example of how to restore.
If doing activity on PC – only doing incremental
backup of some files.
If on a network do not/cannot do this
activity.
Files can be restored to original
location/alternate location/single folder.
Discuss option buttons to select and restore
files that are on disk.
Restore remembers which drive and folder files
came from.
Wizard used but Backup/Restore can be used.
Discussion Question (14) – Explain how you can
restore files.
Click



SECTION 13.14 (pp. 758-759)
Click

Original location/Next
Replace existing files/Next/Next
Finish/Report command button
Close Notepad/Restore Progress dialog box




Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
Start/All Programs/Accessories
System Tools/Backup
Advanced Mode/Restore and Manage
Media tab/Schedule jobs tab
Close Backup window
SLIDES 49-51


Process is automated – requires a fair amount
of preparation.
Choose location that can handle large files
Zip disk or another drive on a network.
Update ASR when any change made to system.
Activity completed.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 11
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
AUTOMATED SYSTEM RECOVERY (ASR)
 Emergency repair process also relies on data
 Automated System Recovery (ASR)
saved in %SystemRoot%\Repair Folder
 Built in repair system for a catastrophic
Notation %SystemRoot% indicates a
failure of system.
variable name.
 Saves information about disk partitions
Substituted name of your Windows folder.
arrangements, system files and detected
Discussion Question (15) – The Automated
hardware
System Recover (ASR) is not a substitute for
 Saves contents of system drive to some
backing up data. Explain.
backup media.
 During process creates floppy disk that
Discussion Question (16) – What is the purpose
and function of the Automated System Recovery
is pointing to location of backup files.
(ASR)?
 Feature not available on WXP
Home Edition.
 Repair system relies on creation of an
Automated system Recovery (ASR)
 Created in Advanced Mode of Backup
 Need ASR, availability of backed up
system files & WXP installation CD to:
 Boot system.
 Repair corrupted system.
 Fix corrupt Registry.
 Does not save program files or data files.
 Not substitute for backing up data.
 Used for system problems.
 Restores system, as it was when ASR was
made/upgraded.
 To repair damaged version of WXP
 Boot system from WXP installation CD
or setup floppy disk.
 Asked if you want to install WXP or
repair damaged version.
 To Repair, press <F2> and follow
SECTION 13.15 (pp. 759-761)
directions.


SLIDES 52-60
THE REGISTRY
 The Registry
 WXP is customizable
 OS keeps track of Configuration
information
 System information i.e. hardware,
applications, users.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1


Initialization of files discussed because of
downward compatibility.
Initialization files = Files that initialize
program/process.
- Earlier Windows version, OS and most
application programs stored information about
users, environmental parameters and necessary
drivers in .INI files
Page 12
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems





PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF
WINDOWS
Initialization files (used in previous
versions of Windows).
 .INI file extension (comes from
initialization files).
 Used to store information (users,
environmental parameters, and
necessary drivers.)
Two types of initialization files in
 System initialization files.
 Windows created the system .ini
files (WIN.INI and SYSTEM.INI).
 Configuration files contained info
Windows needed
 To run itself.
 To run programs installed on
specific computer.
 Private initialization files.
 Application programs create private
.INI files.
 Kept track of state of application,
i.e., screen position or last-used
files.
W had two primary initialization files.
To run windows both files were needed.
 WIN.INI file
 Information on how system
behaved.
 Primary location for software
configuration information.
 Specific system-wide information
added by software application.
 SYSTEM.INI file.
 Pointed OS to correct hardware and
software components such as
device drivers.
 Primary location for computer
hardware system information.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance



WIN.INI and SYSTEM.INI files were needed
to run Windows and programs installed on
specific computer.
SYSTEM.INI for hardware settings.
WIN.INI for user settings.
Also needed REG.DAT for file
associations, various private initialization files,
and object linking & embedding.
Discussion Question (17) – Compare and contrast
system and private initialization files found in
previous versions of Windows.
Discussion Question (18) – What is the purpose
and function of the Registry?
Page 13
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems







Also used REG.DAT file.
 Registration database
 Information about
-- How various applications open.
-- How some print file extensions.
-- How OLE objects handled, etc.
 Not ASCII file
 Only edited by REGEDIT
NOW WINOWS XP USES SINGLE
LOCATION, CALLED REGISTRY
FOR HARDWARE, SYSTEM
SOFTWARE AND APPLICATION
CONFIGURATIONS INFORMATION.
 Old files available for legacy
application programs.
Registry Information comes from
 Installation of Windows XP.
 Booting of Windows XP.
 Applications.
 System and user interaction.
Every part of W uses Registry
Registry files kept in
%SystemRoot%\System32\Config.
Registry files (backed up) kept in
%SystemRoot%\Repair\RegBack.
Registry can be restored by
 Use ASR disk – choices available to
restore Registry by using Recovery
Console.
 Text based command interpreter –
allows system administrator to
access hard disk and files.
 Beyond scope of text.
 “Last Known Good Configuration”
option –
 Use arrow to highlight title then
press <Enter>
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.16 (pp. 761-762)
SLIDES 61-62
 Making changes to system settings
(hardware/software) can cause
computer/devices to no longer work or to
work incorrectly.
System is in an “undesirable state”.
 Discuss why System Restore cannot be used to
save data.
 Amount of changes saved depends on
computer usage, hard disk size, amt. of space
allocated to store System Restore Information
Typically one to three weeks.
Page 14
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems

Safe Mode – Press <F8> key
 Loads minimum drivers and
functionality that allows Windows
XP to run.
 Go into safe mode – presented with
Startup menu
 Allows you to troubleshoot
different types of problems.
 System Restore – easier way to
solve many problems.
SYSTEM RESTORE
 System Restore
 Used to undo changes made to computer
and restore computer to “Desirable State”
 Does the following:
 Rolls back computer to more stable
state.
 System Restore keeps track of
changes made at specific times
 Tracks when new software
program installed
 Above times called restore points
 Can create own personal points
 Restore points allow you to “roll
back” your computer to when
everything was working correctly.
 Saves email messages, browsing
history, and so on
 Does not save or restore documents.
 For computer system not data files
 May select which dates you want to
restore to (use calendar)
 Provides several restore points
 Creates initial system checkpoint
when you upgrade or install WXP
 Regular checkpoints created daily
and at significant events
 Restore points created prior to
update if Windows Automatic
update is used.
 All system restores are reversible.
 If restore point selected not
successful – can undo it.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance

Discussion Question (21) – If you use System
Restore, is it still necessary to back up your data
files? Why or why not?
SECTION 13.17 (pp. 762-765)
SLIDE 63
 Created restore point – make description brief
but meaningful
 Displayed restore points - Any date that is in
bold on calendar holds a restore point
SECTION 13.18 (pp. 765-766)
SLIDES 64-68



IRQ = (Interrupt Request Line) signals CPU to
get its attention.
DMA (Direct Memory Access) devices.
Use DMA channels to access memory.
Do not go through CPU.
Hardware conflict (device won’t work).
Devices competing for same IRQ or DMA
channel.
Page 15
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
ACTIVITY – USING SYSTEM RESTORE
 Using System Restore


Activity cannot be done in lab environment
Activity steps.
 Click








Start/All Programs/Accessories
System Tools/System Restore
Create a restore point/Next
Key in Pre-Wonder
Click
 Create/Close/Start/All Programs
 Accessories/System Tools
 System Restore
Be sure Restore my computer to an earlier
time is selected.
Click Next/Show previous button/Cancel
Activity completed.
PLUG AND PLAY AND DEVICE DRIVERS
 Plug and Play and Device Drivers
 Prior to W95, adding hardware was an
involved process.
 Physically added hardware.
 Each component needs access to
system resources (such as IRQ and
DMA channels).
 Make software changes.
 Hardware devices need software
support found in driver files that
must be installed.
 Need some technical expertise to adjust
settings so hardware devices work.
 Plug and Play (Plug it in and play it).
 Industry standard developed by Intel and
Microsoft.
 Automates adding new hardware to
computer.



Software drivers = Provide software support
for/or “drive” the hardware.
Called drivers because they “drive” the
hardware.
Sometimes called “Plug and Pray”.
Computers manufactured between 1995 and
1998 use
Advanced Power Management (APM)
BIOS\ or Plug and Play BIOS.
Plug and Play setting in BIOS needs to be
set to off.
See computer documentation on how to do
this.
 WXP better than W95/98/2K Professional
 Process.
 Install hardware.
 Boot system.
 Windows XP
 Detects hardware device.
 Makes appropriate adjustments
to system.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 16
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
 Windows XP added support for new types
of devices.
 Universal serial bus (USB).
 USB devices share common connector –
do not need to be configured manually.
 IEEE 1394 – high-speed serial bus.
 Used by devices that need fast data
transfer (Scanners/Video cameras.)
 For Plug and Play to work, need
 Computer with Plug and Play
compatible BIOS.
 Device to be installed is Plug and Play
compatible.
 OS is Plug and Play compatible (W2000
is).
 Full support in WXP requires
 Advanced Configuration and Power
Interface (ACPI) compliant system
board.
 BIOS.
 OS – WXP.
 Device to be installed.
 Drivers for that device.
 Legacy hardware.
 Hardware that is not Plug and Play
compatible.
 WXP solves hardware conflicts with older
computer/devices.
 Use Add/Remove Hardware wizard in
Control Panel.
 If hardware conflicts occur use Device
Manager.
 To add updated drivers.
 Help identify problems.
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.19 (pp. 766-771)
SLIDE 69






Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Determine if computer is compatible with Plug
and Play.
ISA Plug and Play BIOS.
ISA Plug and Play bus on older system.
Not all devices have a Driver tab because not
all devices have drivers.
Driver tab
Driver Details
Update driver
Roll back driver
Uninstall
Device manager window tells you if devices
are working properly.
? = Problem and device is disabled.
Explanation point enclosed in a circle =
Device has a problem.
Can look at each device on system and review
its properties and attributes.
Discussion Question (23) – Why would you want
to roll back a driver? Where would you
accomplish this task?
Page 17
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
ACTIVITY—LOOKING AT PLUG & PLAY
 Looking At Plug and Play
 Activity steps.
 Click










 Start/My Computer/Properties
 Hardware tab/Device Manager
Expand and then collapse Computer entry
Locate and double-click System devices
Right-click Plug and Play Software Device
Enumerator.
Click
 Properties/Driver tab (if available)
 Driver Details/OK/Cancel
 Minus sign next to System Devices.
Select and expand Sound, video and game
adapters
Right-click sound card.
Click Properties/Driver tab/Cancel
Collapse entry
Close all open windows.
Activity steps.
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.20 (pp. 771-772)
SLIDES 70-73






Computer’s system performance impacted by
Amount of physical memory.
Processor.
Swap file = Windows “swaps” information to
and from hard disk when needed.
Demand paging = Process of swapping
information to and from hard disk.
Virtual memory = Memory that doe snot
actually exist.
Can extend size of computer’s memory by
using a disk to simulate memory space.
Compare virtual and regular memory.
Discussion Question (22) – What is a paging file?
Explain some of the advantages and disadvantages
of paging.
THE PAGING FILE
 The Paging File
 Previously called swap file.
 Space on hard drive used as virtual
memory when system runs out of physical SECTION 13.21 (pp. 772-774)
memory.
SLIDE 74
 Paging file is dynamic (shrinks/grows).
 Pros/cons of paging file.
 ACTIVITY IS SPECIFIC TO
 Slows down performance.
MACHINES USED FOR
 Using disk vs. memory.
DEMONSTRATION.
 Gives user more “room” to operate.
 Can specify virtual memory settings.
 Can set place and size of paging file.
 For best performance follow Windows
 Microsoft recommends letting
suggestions
Windows manage paging file.
Set initial size to equal or greater than
 Reasons for setting place/size of paging
recommended size
file.
 Must be administrator to make any changes
 Second hard drive free of executable
programs.
 Large hard drive with little information.
 Increases paging file size.
 Place paging file on drive with fastest
access time.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 18
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems
ACTIVITY – LOOKING AT SETTING UP
YOUR PAGING FILE
 Setting Up Your Paging File

Activity steps.
 Click Start
 Right-click My Computer
 Click




Properties/Advanced tab
Settings command button (in
Performance Options)
Advanced tab/Change command button
Question mark in title bar
Initial size (MB) text box
Cancel/Cancel/Cancel



Activity completed.
ADMINISTRATIVE TOOLS AND SYSTEM
INFORMATION
 Administrative Tools and System Information
 System Information
 Collects/displays system configuration
information for local/remote computers
 Includes hardware configuration,
including driver information.
 Used to view/access different tools
 Use to find information required by
support technicians.


Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.22 (pp. 774-775)
SLIDES 75-77








Console = Collection of administrative tools.
Full exploration of MMC beyond scope of this
textbook.
Administrative Tools folder found in Control
Panel.
Many tools in Administrative Tools require
user to have administrator privileges.
Can add Administrative Tools to Start menu
using Taskbar and Start Menu Properties sheet.
Counter log
Can record data about items as hardware
usage and also provide alerts.
Can set an alert on counter defining that
message be sent when counter’s value equals,
exceeds, or falls below some specified setting.
Discussion Question (24) – What is system
information? Identify two kinds of information
you could locate in this tool.
Discussion Question (25) – What is the Microsoft
Management Console (MMC)?
Saves data files in files with .nfo ext
Microsoft Management Console (MMC)
 Tool to create/save/open collection of
administrative tools (console).
 Framework that hosts admin tools.
 Go over Figure 11.5Administrative
Tools, (PowerPoint slide)
 Component Services.
 Programming tool used to
create/configure/maintain COM
applications.
 Tool rarely used by user.
 Computer Management.
 Manage disks, and local and
remote computers.
 Has information about computer
system.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Page 19
Instructor: Prof. Michael P. Harris
ITSC 1405 – Intro to PC Operating Systems





Data Sources (ODBC).
 Programming/Administrative
tool to access data from various
database management systems.
Event Viewer.
 Gathers hardware/software and
system problems information.
 Monitors security events.
Local Security Policy.
 Allows Security administrator
to configure security levels for
local computer policies.
Performance.
 Logging counter/event
data/generating performance
alerts features.
Services.
 Can start/stop/pause/resume
services on remote and local
computers.
 Can configure startup and
recover options.
 Services include tasks as
running scheduled tasks or
starting network connection.
ACTIVITY—USING SYSTEM
INFORMATION AND COMPUTER
MANAGEMENT
 Using Computer Management
 Activity steps.
 Click Start/All Programs/Accessories/









System Tools/System Information
Expand Hardware Resources.
Click IRQs/Tools
Collapse hardware resources
Close System Information window
Click Start/Control Panel
Double-click Administrative
Tools/Computer Management
Storage should be expanded
Double-click Disk Management
Close Computer Management/Control
Panel
Activity completed.
Carolyn Z. Gillay, Bette A. Peat, Windows XP Command Line
Franklin, Beedle & Associates ©2003 ISBN: 1-887902-82-1
Chapter 13
File and Disk Maintenance
SECTION 13.23 (pp. 776-777)
SLIDE 78


System Summary
View all info about computer system
Tools that can be used.
System Restore
Net Diagnostic –checks network connections
File Signature Verification Utility –maintains
integrity of system – detects changes
Direct X –enhances multimedia capabilities –
provides access to display and audio cards
Dr. Watson – detects system information and
program failures – records information in log file
(used by technical support professionals)
Disk Management
Graphical tool for managing disks.
Support for partitions and logical drives.
Allows online administrative tasks without
shutting down system or interrupting users.
Provides shortcut menus to show tasks that can
be performed on a selected object.
Must be administrator to use.
Page 20