How to install PowerToys on Windows 10

If you've been using Windows for a long time, I'm sure you'll remember tools like Tweak UI and SyncToy. Microsoft has proposed add-ons to further enhance the Windows experience. The project came in the era of Windows XP, and now we have another who came our way – PowerToys for Windows 10. In this article, we will show how to install PowerToys in Windows 10 and use its features.

Install PowerToys for Windows 10

PowerToys consist of a set of modules or programs that enhance the experience and productivity of the workstation. We are talking about:

1. Install and install PowerToys
2. FancyZones to improve multitasking when using multiple windows
3. Power Renamer that can rename multiple files with a right click
4. Shortcut Guide for Learning Essential Windows Shortcuts

Make sure to continue updating the software to obtain more modules.

1) How to configure PowerToys on Windows 10

PowerToys is an open source project, signed with Microsoft certificates. They can therefore be installed safely on the computer. The installation file is available on PowerToys @ GitHub.

1. Open the website release section
2. Under the last publication tag, look for a link to download.
3. It should be under the name of PowerToysSetup.msi under assets.
4. Click to download and save to the computer when prompted.
5. When the download is complete, double-click the MSI file to install. You will be asked for the authorization of the administrator.
6. Once installed, it will install silently in the icon of the taskbar.
7. Click on it to open the PowerToys.

Once you have completed the basic installation wizard, click the PowerToys logo in the notification area of ​​the taskbar. Double-click to launch it and you should see a screen similar to the image below.

The first screen is the general settings, followed by the available modules. When new modules become available, they will be added to the list.

It's worth noting that instead of associating all the features to the box, each of the PowerToys can be activated or downloaded. Thus, if you do not use any function, you can disable the option available under each of the modules in the general settings.

You also have settings to start with Windows startup and choose black and white mode.

2) FancyZones: Create a custom layout for multiple windows

Windows 10 lets you resize Windows and keep multiple windows side by side. It works wonders when you have two windows to organize with the WIN + arrow keys. But if you want to have multiple windows and you can use the screen efficiently, you have to use Fancy Zones.

This module provides preconfigured areas or presentations, such as three columns, a grid, lines, and so on. You can select any of them, increase or decrease the columns, view the space around the zones and configure it. If you want to create your own layout, you can also do it. Switch to custom mode, and then create a layout. Once done, save with a name you'll remember.

The layout in the image is what I use. I have a large monitor that allows me to easily keep 2 or 3 windows of different sizes. Once arranged, I can easily insert windows into windows using the keyboard shortcut (Win + Arrow) or dragging them into this area. You can create as many zones as you want according to your needs.

Apart from that, you have tons of parameters available. This includes the keyboard shortcut, blinking when the active layout is changed, the layout intact when the resolution is changed, and so on. This is an amazing tool for those who need to work on multiple windows all the time.

3) Rename power

I remember writing many renaming tools, and you can do almost anything with Power Renamer. It offers the necessary options such as Regex, Exclusion, case sensitivity, etc. It also integrates well with the context menu so you can start renaming by first selecting the files and then right-clicking on Power Renamer.

4) Shortcut Guide

This is an informative guide that suits those who do not know the shortcuts available in Windows. Press the Windows key a little longer than usual, and you should see an overlay with all the essential keyboard shortcuts.

Overall, the PowerToys are an excellent initiative for experienced Windows 10 users who would like to use these small features daily.

Fancy Zones is my favorite because I have to work with multiple windows every day and it keeps me in order. Which one is yours?