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Microsoft PowerToys - Printable Version

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Microsoft PowerToys - Sneakyone - 09-04-2024

Guide to Microsoft PowerToys

Microsoft PowerToys is a set of utilities for power users to tune and streamline their Windows experience for greater productivity. This guide will walk you through the installation, configuration, and key features of PowerToys.


1. Installation Process

Follow these steps to install Microsoft PowerToys on your device:

  1. Download the installer: Visit the official Microsoft PowerToys GitHub page and download the latest release of PowerToys.
  2. Run the installer: Once the download is complete, double-click the installer file to begin the installation process.
  3. Choose installation options: Follow the on-screen instructions, accepting the default settings or customizing the installation directory.
  4. Complete the installation: After the installation is complete, PowerToys will automatically launch.
  5. Pin PowerToys to the taskbar: You can pin PowerToys to your taskbar or start menu for quick access.


2. First-Time Setup and Customization

After installation, follow these steps to configure PowerToys for optimal use:

  1. Launch PowerToys: Open PowerToys from the system tray or the Start menu.
  2. Enable startup at login: Go to ‘General’ settings and enable the ‘Run at Startup’ option to ensure PowerToys starts with Windows.
  3. Check for updates: Under the ‘General’ settings, enable the ‘Check for updates’ option to automatically receive the latest features and fixes.
  4. Explore modules: Each PowerToys utility is a module. Navigate through each module in the left panel to enable or disable specific tools based on your needs.


3. Key Features and How to Use Them

Microsoft PowerToys offers a variety of tools designed to improve productivity and enhance the Windows experience.
  • FancyZones: This tool helps you create custom window layouts to improve multitasking. To set up FancyZones, go to the ‘FancyZones’ module and click ‘Launch Layout Editor’. You can create grid-like layouts or customize your own. Once set up, drag windows into designated zones by holding the Shift key.
  • PowerToys Run: PowerToys Run is a quick launcher for apps, files, and system settings. Press Alt + Space to activate the launcher, then type what you’re searching for. You can quickly open applications, search the web, or perform calculations.
  • Color Picker: This utility allows you to quickly grab color values from any part of the screen. Press Win + Shift + C to activate the Color Picker, and click on any pixel to copy the color code (HEX, RGB, etc.) to your clipboard.
  • Keyboard Manager: Remap keys and shortcuts with the Keyboard Manager. In the ‘Keyboard Manager’ module, click ‘Remap a key’ or ‘Remap a shortcut’ to assign custom functions to specific keys or key combinations.
  • File Explorer Add-ons: PowerToys enhances File Explorer with additional preview capabilities. Enable ‘SVG Preview’ and ‘Markdown Preview’ in the ‘File Explorer Add-ons’ module to view these file types directly in the preview pane of File Explorer.
  • Image Resizer: This tool allows you to quickly resize images directly from the right-click context menu. To use it, right-click an image file, select ‘Resize pictures’, and choose a preset size or customize your own.
  • Shortcut Guide: This feature displays a cheat sheet of Windows keyboard shortcuts. Press and hold the Win key for about one second to bring up the shortcut guide overlay.
  • PowerRename: PowerRename allows you to batch rename files with advanced search and replace functionality. Select the files you want to rename, right-click, and choose ‘PowerRename’.
  • Mouse Utilities: PowerToys includes a utility to find your mouse cursor by pressing Ctrl twice. You can enable this feature under the ‘Mouse Utilities’ module.


4. Customizing PowerToys Settings

Each PowerToys module can be customized to better suit your needs. Here’s how to adjust settings for specific tools:

  1. FancyZones: Customize your window layouts and snapping behaviors by clicking ‘Launch Layout Editor’ in the FancyZones module. You can choose from preset layouts or create your own.
  2. PowerToys Run: Go to the ‘PowerToys Run’ module to enable or disable plugins, such as calculator, search, or web browsing. You can also change the appearance of the launcher.
  3. Image Resizer: Configure default resizing options by navigating to ‘Image Resizer’ in the settings. You can adjust the preset image sizes or create new ones.
  4. Shortcut Guide: Under the ‘Shortcut Guide’ module, you can adjust the time delay for activating the guide, as well as the screen overlay opacity and color.


5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues you may encounter with PowerToys and how to resolve them:
  • FancyZones not working: If FancyZones doesn’t snap windows properly, check that ‘Hold Shift key to enable zones while dragging’ is enabled in the FancyZones settings. Also, ensure you are using a supported layout.
  • PowerToys Run not launching: If PowerToys Run doesn’t respond to Alt + Space, verify that the feature is enabled in the ‘PowerToys Run’ settings and that the shortcut has not been changed.
  • File Explorer Add-ons not displaying previews: Make sure ‘Preview pane’ is enabled in File Explorer by clicking ‘View’ and selecting ‘Preview pane’.
  • Keyboard remaps not working: If custom key remaps are not functioning, ensure the ‘Enable Keyboard Manager’ option is turned on and check that there are no conflicts with other key mappings.


6. Uninstalling PowerToys

If you need to uninstall PowerToys, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Control Panel or Settings app on your computer.
  2. Go to Programs > Uninstall a Program.
  3. Find Microsoft PowerToys in the list of installed programs and click Uninstall.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove PowerToys from your system.
  5. Restart your computer if prompted.


7. Conclusion

Microsoft PowerToys is an excellent tool for enhancing productivity on Windows. From creating custom window layouts to managing keyboard shortcuts, PowerToys has utilities that cater to every type of user. Keep your PowerToys updated to access the latest features, and for more assistance, visit the Microsoft PowerToys Documentation.