Using the Visual Effects tab (under Control Panel, System and Maintenance, Adjust Effects or Performance - depending on the version of Windows you use) is an easy way to set your preferences for visual effects and system performance of your Windows.

For Vista computers, reducing the visual effects in can result in speed increases for your computer without much if any noticeable change in the look and feel of the Aero Interface.

There are four choices:

• Let Windows choose what's best for my computer - the default setting.
  
  
• Adjust for best appearance - all effects will be used; requires the most amount of operating memory for this function
  
  
• Adjust for best performance - most effects will not be used; requires the least amount of operating memory for this function
  
  
• Custom - you can choose the settings you want to use or not use

A checkmark next to an effect indicates that the effect will be used. You might try unchecking a few settings at a time (using the custom setting), to see what you notice and to decide whether or not you like the way Windows functions.