If you have worked with Windows before you are likely familiar with the Control Panel. There are usually updates to the Control Panel with each new version of Windows that is released. Windows Vista’s Control Panel includes several new items, some of which are described in more detail below.

• Network Center - Used to view your Network Map, identify connectivity problems, configure essential security settings and view network details.
• Parental Controls - Used to enable, configure and manage the new parental controls in Windows Vista.
• Pen and Input Devices - Used to configure and manage alternate input devices such as pens and input panels.
• Sidebar Properties - Used to configure and manage the Windows Vista side bar.
• Sync Center - Used to manage synched hardware such as PDAs and portable media players.
• Text to Speech - Used to configure speech recognition and speech translation speech translation.
• Windows Defender - Used to identify unwanted or harmful software, scan your computer, view quarantined items, and visit the Windows Defender Web site.