The classic Control Panel remains a superior option to the new settings section that Microsoft introduced in Windows 8.x and Windows 10, but "superior" doesn't mean "ideal". Some functions are quite hidden, and if an advanced user wants more direct access to them, they might prefer an alternative like Ultimate Settings Panel.
Developing a good command of the Control Panel is an excellent step to keep Windows in order and fix any inconvenience that might arise during use. Unfortunately, the Control Panel hasn't lost its intimidating profile over the years, and I've seen users go white with horror at the need to enter it. With the new versions of Windows (read Windows 8.x and Windows 10), Microsoft has tried to turn that section of the operating system into a much friendlier place, however, advanced problems require advanced functions. The classic Control Panel hasn't gone anywhere, but Ultimate Settings Panel presents a much simpler and more comfortable way to access its content.
Now, it would be crazy to think of Ultimate Settings Panel as a Control Panel add-on and nothing more. Inside we'll find options that reach programs like Internet Explorer, Firefox, Outlook, and Chrome. There's also a tab dedicated to PowerShell, restart and shutdown controls, a section with more delicate tools (DiskPart, for example), and of course, all the shortcuts you can imagine. Registry editor, fonts, Task Manager, autorun, default programs, accessibility, firewall... nothing seems to escape this small application.
Ultimate Settings Panel is divided into two versions, a Lite one and a Pro one. The Pro version incorporates an even greater number of options, but I must confess that the Lite edition should be more than enough to impose quick and strict control over the operating system. Its latest build is 4.1 (which was updated yesterday), and it's completely portable, so there won't be any problems adding it to a maintenance USB drive.
