Action Center
A tool that provides you with a single location where you can identify and address any security issues, maintenance requirements, and errors that have arisen.
Backup and Restore
A tool included in Windows 7 that allows you to set up backup regiments to back up files, restore files, create a system image, and create a system repair disc.
boot configuration data (BCD)
A database of boot configuration data that is used during the boot process for Windows Vista and Windows 7.
binary format
Data that is stored in its raw digital form as binary numbers. Data stored in this format cannot be viewed properly by text editors such as Notepad or Wordpad.
DirectX
A programming standard for writing multimedia applications that interact with video, sound, and input devices such as the keyboard.
Event Viewer
An MMC console snap-in used to browse and manage the records of system events and messages stored in system event logs.
Last Known Good configuration
A recovery option that restores settings in the registry hive HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet that were in place the last time the computer was started successfully and a user logged on.
MMC
A standard for graphical management utilities called Microsoft Management Consoles (MMC). Management consoles can be added as snap-ins for a bare-bones MMC application.
Problem Steps Recorder
A new tool included in Windows 7 that allows users to record the exact steps required to reproduce a problem. The recorded steps can then be forwarded to help desk staff for analysis.
RAM
Random Access Memory, otherwise known as chip-based memory that stores instructions and data in silicon-based chips that are very quick to access but only suitable for short-term data storage.
Reliability Monitor
A tool that rates the system stability of Windows 7 and lets you monitor the events that contribute to system stability.
Safe Mode
A troubleshooting startup mode that is typically used when the regular startup mode for Windows 7 fails
System Image Recovery
A backup option to save the current operating system partition and all of its data to an image-based file.
System Information
A tool that scans the current state of the computer and reports its findings in a searchable tree format.
System Restore
A recovery option that restores the operating system to a previously saved state by reversing changes to Windows system files, the registry, and newly installed software.
TrustedInstaller
A special security service designed to restrict access to critical operating system files and registry settings. Administrators and the operating system only have read-only access to resources protected by TrustedInstaller. The TrustedInstaller service will not install an update unless Microsoft digitally signs the update.
VGA
A standard low-resolution graphics mode that is typically used when troubleshooting incompatible video drivers or drivers set to a high resolution that is not supported by the attached monitor.
Windows Resource Protection
A Windows 7 feature that protects system files and registry keys from unauthorized changes.
Windows Firewall
The network filter that Windows 7 applies to restrict inbound and outbound network traffic on any network interface available to the computer.
Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)
The Windows Management Interface is a standard for accessing operating system operational status and configuration controls through remote management utilities.