Lab 15

Apply your experiences with Windows Vista, the Windows command prompt
(DOS) and Linux to answer the questions below. Turn in your answers using the
dropbox for Lab 15.

1. How would you get a listing of only executable files in the c:\windows\system32
directory? Use Vista’s GUI, the command prompt or a Linux tool. Describe your
steps.

Using Command Prompt you would change directory to c:\windows\system32.

Then use the command dir *.exe with a /p switch to pause after each screen.

2. How would you view hidden and system files using Vista’s GUI versus the
command prompt? Describe each method. Which do you prefer and why?

Using the GUI you would go to control panel> folder options> view tab> select
show hidden folder. In to command prompt you can use the /ah switch on a dir
command. I prefer using the GUI in this case as I find it easier to navigate though
files and folders in general using the GUI.

3. After viewing the class presentation on Windows version 7, comment on the

proposed changes in version 7 from Vista. Which, if any, of these enhancements
do you think are worthwhile and why? Would you upgrade to version 7 if you are
running XP? What about if you are running Vista?

I’ve been running Windows 7 on one of my PCs since October 22nd. I find it better
than Vista. I’ve run into less problems with security controls and multimedia
functions. However it’s still harder to find drivers for older hardware than XP. I
will eventually upgrade more of my PCs. I like the thumbnails as well as some of
the nice business features included especially when paired with Server 2008.

4. What is Linux's Workspace Switcher? Is this the same as Vista's ability to open
more than one application window? Explain.

Linux’s Workspace Switcher allows you to have separate workspaces to open

applications in. Essentially separate screens to run whatever you want in. This
is different that Vista’s ability to open more than one app window because you
can open multiple apps in each of the Linux workspaces. This is for better
organization although I find it a neat idea, I’ve never found I had so many apps
open I needed to separate them in different workspaces.

5. Compare the security settings and permissions used in Windows and Linux.
Begin by selecting a file that is on your Windows PC that can also be accessed
using Linux. The easiest way to do this is to copy the file to a flash drive while in
Windows. Then boot up Linux and copy the file from the flash drive into your
Liveruser folder. Answer the following questions about this file.
a. Describe the security settings on the file while in Vista. Include each group
or user and their specific permissions. Also provide a screen print showing
where you got this information.
b. Describe the permissions on the file while in Linux. Include the
permissions for owner, group and world. Again, provide a screen print
showing where you got this information.