Synopsis

Start → All Programs → Accessories → System tools → System Information

Microsoft System Information is a reporting tool used to view information about hardware, system resources used by that hardware, software drivers, and Internet Explorer settings. Information is arranged in a familiar Explorer-like tree. Expand or collapse branches with the plus [+] and minus [-] signs, and click any category to view the corresponding information in the righthand pane.

TIP

The "Components" view of your hardware is similar to Device Manager, except that Device Manager also allows modification and removal of the devices. Likewise, the "Hardware Resources" view can be duplicated in Device Manager with View → Resources by type. One advantage Microsoft System Information has over Device Manager is its ability to show history of changes, using View → System History.