Windows has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades, evolving through various technological eras to become the robust operating system it is today. With thousands of Microsoft engineers contributing to its development, it’s no surprise that Windows is packed with numerous subtle features that often go unnoticed. While these capabilities may not be essential for the average user, they can significantly enhance the experience for those who discover them. Here, we explore five intriguing functionalities in Windows 11 that could reshape your interaction with the operating system.
1 – ClickLock
ClickLock is a unique feature in Windows that allows users to mimic the action of a sustained mouse click without having to keep their finger pressed down the entire time. Gamers may recognize this functionality from the “toggle button” mechanics, where a single press can initiate or halt an action, such as sprinting in a game. With ClickLock, if you hold down the mouse button for about a second, it “locks” the click, enabling you to highlight text simply by moving your cursor across it without needing to maintain pressure on the button.
This feature can be particularly beneficial for those who may have accessibility needs or for users whose hardware has seen better days. For instance, if the click mechanism on a trackpad is becoming unreliable, ClickLock provides a convenient workaround. To enable this feature, navigate to Mouse Properties via Windows Search and head to the Buttons tab.
2 – Screen Savers
Once a staple of the Windows experience, screen savers have faded into the background in recent iterations of the operating system. Originally designed to prevent screen burn-in on older CRT monitors, these animated displays now serve more as a nostalgic customization option. Despite their diminished prominence, Windows 11 still includes a selection of screen savers that can be configured to activate after a specified period of inactivity.
Among the available options are 3D Text, Bubbles, Mystify, Photos, and Ribbons—though the beloved Pipes are notably absent. Users can personalize their screen savers by accessing Screen Saver Settings through Windows Search.
3 – God Mode Folder
Affectionately dubbed the “God Mode Folder,” this feature offers a centralized view of various Windows settings and Control Panel utilities directly within File Explorer. Users can access configurations for AutoPlay, Credential Manager, BitLocker, Windows Defender Firewall, and much more, all from a single interface. While this method of navigation isn’t necessarily superior, it does provide a more streamlined approach for those who prefer it.
To create your own God Mode Folder, simply create a new folder on your desktop and rename it to: GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}. The folder icon will transform into a Control Panel icon, allowing you to explore various settings with ease.
4 – Battery Report
Windows offers a valuable tool for users concerned about their device’s battery health: the ability to generate a detailed battery report. This report provides insights into charge cycles, battery capacity, and other essential metrics, all formatted neatly in HTML. To create a battery report, open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the command:
powercfg /batteryreport
The resulting report will be saved in your System32 folder, serving as a useful resource for monitoring battery performance over time.
5 – File History
For those who prioritize data security, Windows offers a local backup solution known as File History. This feature allows users to connect an external drive or network drive to maintain a continuously synchronized backup of their libraries, including Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music. Users can also create custom libraries for specific folders they wish to back up.
With File History, the need for manual backups is eliminated, as Windows automates the process. This functionality not only simplifies data management but also allows users to restore previous versions of their files, making it an excellent alternative for those who prefer not to rely on cloud storage solutions like OneDrive. To enable File History, search for it in Windows or navigate to Control Panel > System and Security > File History.
These features, while not overtly highlighted by Microsoft, offer a wealth of functionality for users willing to explore the depths of Windows 11. Whether you are already familiar with some of these tricks or are discovering them for the first time, they can undoubtedly enhance your overall experience with the operating system.
