How to use Windows 10 — essential tips and tricks

How to use Windows 10
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Windows is the most popular OS in the world, and knowing how to use Windows 10's productivity-focused features will allow you to truly make it sing. Windows 10 is an extremely versatile tool once you know you’re way around it. 

Whether you’re looking to capture screenshots, split your screen into multiple segments or update your drivers, there’s a lot to learn. 

It might seem a little overwhelming at first but our Windows 10 tips will give you the confidence to perform seemingly complex tasks with ease. 

We’ve also got some guides for more advanced functions, including mapping a network drive and factory resetting your device if something has gone really wrong. 

How to screenshot on Windows 10

Let’s start with an essential, our guide will have you collecting images of what's on your screen in seconds.  

How to turn on Bluetooth for Windows 10

Struggling to connect your new set of wireless headphones to your Windows 10 device? Your first port of call should be checking Bluetooth is definitely switched on, our guide will tell you how.  

How to update Windows 10

Keeping your Windows 10 device up to date is a critical task that will ensure its long-term health. Often updates will be performed automatically, but not always, so you need to know how to manually check for them. Luckily our guide breaks the whole process down.  

How to boot into Windows 10 safe mode

If you’re having issues on your Windows 10 device then booting into safe mode might offer a solution and help your narrow down the problem. This one might seem tricky at first, but our instructions will make it a breeze.  

How to record a screen on Windows 10

Looking to create a video lecture or presentation? Recording your screen is a vital function in our increasingly virtual world. Thankfully Windows 10 includes in-built screen capture capabilities that are surprisingly straightforward to use. 

How to split the screen on Windows 10

Wanting to make the most of your screen or monitor display, then splitting your screen is a great way to make use of two tabs at once. Windows 10 even lets you split your screen into four equal segments, our guide will talk you through the steps.  

How to update drivers on Windows 10

Drivers ensure that third-party applications and accessories are working harmoniously with your Windows 10 device, it’s crucial that you make sure they’re kept updated. Our steps will show you how to perform this task.  

Mapping a network drive in Windows 10

A more advanced function, but extremely useful, mapping a network drive will allow you to share files with other devices in moments. Eliminate the need for email attachments or USB thumb drives using our easy-to-follow guide. 

How to change the password on Windows 10

Online security is super important, so making sure you have a unique password on Windows 10 is a vital step. If you’re unsure how to go about changing your password, don’t worry we’re here to help.  

How to install Windows 10

There's plenty of reasons you might need to install or reinstall Windows 10. Maybe you've picked up a new device that doesn't have the OS preloaded or perhaps you just need a fresh installation to resolve issues. Whatever the reason, our guide will walk you through the process. 

How to factory reset on Windows 10

Factory resetting your Window 10 device is usually a last resort after all other troubleshooting methods have failed, but sometimes you need to take the nuclear option. Our guide will walk through the process of how to factory reset on Windows 10. 

How to speed up Windows 10

If your Windows 10 device is running slow there are a few methods you can employ it give it a boost. Read our guide on how to speed up Windows 10 for several options that will help increase you hardware performance.  

How to reinstall Windows 10

If you need to give your Windows 10 device a fresh start follow our walkthrough on how to reinstall Windows 10 which will guide you through the entire process. 

More Windows 10 tips

How to find your Windows 10 product key | How to encrypt files on Windows 10 | How to install Windows 10 | How to turn on Bluetooth for Windows 10 | How to screenshot on Windows 10 | How to boot into Windows 10 safe mode | How to split the screen on Windows 10 | How to record a screen on Windows 10 | How to update drivers on Windows 10 | Mapping a network drive in Windows 10 | How to update Windows 10 | How to change the password on Windows 10 | How to factory reset on Windows 10 | How to speed up Windows 10

Rory Mellon
Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is an Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.