Tweaky

The Windows operating system comes with its default configuration but tech-savvy users and IT professionals often like messing around with its settings to create a custom working environment. Tweaky is one of the applications out there that enables them to apply certain changes on the spot, without having to swarm in the system settings.

This lightweight application packs various tweaks under the same roof. Whether we are talking about privacy-related changes, functionality-related modifications, Windows Explorer or desktop customizations, and even some tweaks related to resource sharing and networking, it’s all there in Tweaky’s feature set. Most of the tweaks work on Windows 10 down to XP but there are some that cannot be applied on certain OS iterations.

Starting from the beginning, it is worth noticing that Tweaky can disable the telemetry and data collection capabilities of Windows 10, along with ads and app suggestions. Moreover, users can easily disable Cortana and remove Bing as the default search engine in the start menu. In other words, one can use it for a better user experience and privacy protection.

There are a few legacy functions Tweaky can bring back. For instance, it can force Windows to show the classic command prompt instead of PowerShell and it can enable the now old balloon tips or the classic photo viewer of the OS.

Tweaky can also customize the way Windows handles certain errors. For instance, it enables users to enable the classic blue screen of death and disable automatic reboot when BSOD occurs. It can also automatically end all the tasks on shutdown, without requiring your consent, which is the default behavior of Windows.

Automatic registry backup can also be toggled on using Tweaky. The application can also tamper with the Storage Sense or the automatic updates of Store apps or Windows drivers.

There are a few interface-related tweaks that users can apply. For instance, the lock screen or the Aero Shake function can be disabled. Tweaky can also meddle with the Windows Explorer, Windows’ confirmation prompts, desktop shortcuts and icons. It enables you to add shutdown options to the context menu.

Tweaky brings together a bunch of random system tweaks, but some might really appeal to advanced users who are looking for a quick way to customize Windows. Some of its options require basic computer and networking knowledge, at least, but they are easy to apply. For users who need to save custom system configurations for future deployment, an application such as Tweaky might be helpful.