HTG Asks: Windows Icon Font, Network Drives, & Photo Background Removal

Reader Questions & Solutions: A Weekly Roundup

Each week, we compile a selection of compelling questions received from our readership and present the corresponding solutions. This week’s focus includes modifying icon font colors within Windows, conducting searches across networked drives, and techniques for eliminating backgrounds from photographs.

Changing Icon Font Color in Windows

A common inquiry concerns altering the color of icon fonts in the Windows operating system. This customization isn't directly supported through standard Windows settings.

However, achieving this effect typically requires utilizing third-party applications or modifying system files – approaches that demand caution and a thorough understanding of potential consequences.

Searching Networked Drives

Another frequently asked question relates to efficiently searching networked drives. Windows Search can be leveraged for this purpose, but optimal performance often necessitates indexing the networked drives.

To enable indexing, navigate to the drive’s properties within File Explorer and select the “Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed” option. This will significantly speed up search results.

Removing Photo Backgrounds

Many readers have inquired about methods for removing backgrounds from images. Several tools are available, ranging from simple online services to sophisticated professional software.

Adobe Photoshop offers precise control, while free alternatives like GIMP provide robust functionality. Online tools often utilize AI-powered background removal, offering a quick and convenient solution for less complex images.

Furthermore, dedicated background removal websites can often achieve satisfactory results with minimal effort.

These solutions address some of the recent questions posed by our audience. We aim to continue providing helpful answers to your technical challenges.

Adjusting Font Colors for Windows 7 Desktop Icons

A reader from California recently inquired about modifying the color of text displayed on desktop shortcut icons. The default white color can often blend into lighter wallpaper backgrounds, making the labels difficult to read.

Understanding the Limitation

Previously, in Windows XP and older operating systems, users had the ability to directly customize the icon text color. However, Windows Vista and Windows 7 removed this direct customization option.

The standard configuration utilizes a white font with a drop shadow, intended to provide visibility across various backgrounds. However, this isn't always effective with brighter wallpapers.

A Workaround for Improved Visibility

While a direct color change isn't possible, a solution exists, though it requires several steps. The process involves disabling the drop shadow and adjusting the desktop background color.

First, the drop shadow effect must be deactivated. This can be achieved by navigating to the Control Panel, then selecting System. Within the System Properties window, locate and uncheck the option labeled "Use drop shadows for icon labels on the desktop." This setting is typically found near the bottom of the list.

Modifying the Desktop Background Color

Next, return to the Control Panel and proceed to Personalization. Select "Window Color," then choose "Advanced Appearance Settings."

From the "Item" dropdown menu, select "Desktop." Here, you can specify a new color for the desktop background. Note that this alters the color under the wallpaper, not the wallpaper itself.

To achieve black text, select a white desktop color. Conversely, choosing a black desktop color will result in white text.

Finalizing the Changes

It's important to note that these modifications won't be immediately visible. A system reboot is necessary for the changes to take effect.

Once the computer restarts, the desktop lettering will be updated to the chosen color, remaining consistent regardless of the wallpaper used.

Hopefully, this method provides a solution for improved readability of desktop icons.

Searching Networked Drives from Windows

Accessing and searching files on networked drives from a Windows operating system is a common task for many users. This process allows for centralized file management and collaboration within an organization or home network.

Understanding Networked Drives

Networked drives, also known as shared folders, are locations on another computer or server that are made accessible to users over a network. They appear as drive letters within Windows File Explorer, similar to local hard drives.

These drives facilitate easy file sharing and eliminate the need for physical media transfer. Accessing them requires appropriate network permissions granted by the drive owner or network administrator.

Methods for Searching Networked Drives

Several methods can be employed to search for files on networked drives using Windows. The most common approaches include utilizing File Explorer’s search functionality and leveraging Windows Search indexing.

Using File Explorer Search

The simplest method involves opening File Explorer and navigating to the desired networked drive. From there, the search box in the upper-right corner can be used to enter search terms.

Windows will then scan the contents of that specific drive for files matching the query. Search operators, such as using quotation marks for exact phrases, can refine the results.

Windows Search Indexing

For faster and more comprehensive searches, Windows Search indexing is highly recommended. Indexing creates a database of file names and properties, allowing for near-instantaneous search results.

To ensure networked drives are included in the index, they must be explicitly added to the indexed locations within the Windows Search settings. This can be found in Control Panel > Indexing Options.

Optimizing Search Performance

Several factors can influence the speed and accuracy of searches on networked drives. Optimizing these elements can significantly improve the user experience.

• Network Connection: A stable and fast network connection is crucial.
• Indexing Status: Verify that the networked drive is fully indexed.
• Search Terms: Use specific and relevant keywords.
• File Types: Narrow the search by specifying file types (e.g., .docx, .pdf).

Troubleshooting Search Issues

Occasionally, users may encounter issues when searching networked drives. Common problems and their solutions include:

Slow Search Speed: Ensure the drive is indexed and the network connection is stable. Rebuilding the index may also help.

Inaccurate Results: Double-check search terms and file extensions. Permissions issues can also prevent access to certain files.

Drive Not Appearing: Verify network connectivity and ensure the drive is properly mapped. Confirm you have the necessary permissions to access the share.

Advanced Search Techniques

Beyond basic keyword searches, Windows offers advanced search operators for more precise results.

These include using wildcards (* and ?), date modified filters, size constraints, and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT). Mastering these techniques can significantly enhance search efficiency.

For example, searching "report*.docx" will find all Word documents starting with "report".

Regularly maintaining network drive permissions and ensuring proper indexing are key to a smooth and efficient file searching experience within a Windows environment.

Dear How-To Geek, I utilize a networked attached storage (NAS) device connected to my network. My goal is to leverage a utility such as Voidtools' 'Search Everything' for rapid file location. Unfortunately, I've encountered limited compatibility when attempting to search or index these network drives. Am I restricted to meticulously organizing my file structure and abandoning search tools? Or does a viable solution remain undiscovered? Sincerely, File Searching in Phoenix

Dear File Searching, Your assessment is accurate. The 'Everything' search tool is unable to function with NAS devices. This is because it relies on direct access to the NTFS file tables, restricting its operation to locally formatted NTFS drives.

To achieve swift searching across your network, implementing an indexing solution is necessary. While the speed won’t precisely match 'Everything' – due to its near-instantaneous referencing capabilities – it should still prove adequate for your requirements.

Considering Alternative Search Tools

We recommend investigating Locate32, a local search indexing application that extends support to networked drives. It provides a functional alternative when direct NTFS access isn't possible.

Here's a summary of the key points:

• Everything is limited to local NTFS drives.
• Indexing is required for network drive searches.
• Locate32 is a viable option for indexing networked storage.

By utilizing an indexing tool like Locate32, you can regain the ability to quickly locate files on your NAS without sacrificing usability.

Removing Background Images with Photoshop

Photoshop provides several powerful tools for removing backgrounds from images. This process is crucial for isolating subjects and creating composites.

Understanding Background Removal Techniques

Different images require different approaches. The best method depends on the complexity of the background and the subject's edges.

Methods for Background Removal

• Magic Wand Tool: This tool selects areas based on color similarity. It’s effective for backgrounds with uniform colors.
• Quick Selection Tool: Ideal for quickly painting a selection around a subject. Photoshop intelligently finds edges.
• Pen Tool: Offers the most precise control. It allows you to create vector paths around the subject for a clean cut.
• Select Subject: An AI-powered feature that automatically detects and selects the main subject in an image.
• Background Eraser Tool: Samples the color at the center of the brush and erases similar colors as you paint.

Using the Quick Selection Tool

The Quick Selection Tool is often a good starting point. Simply brush over the subject you want to keep. Photoshop will attempt to identify the edges.

Refine the selection using the "Add to Selection" (+) and "Subtract from Selection" (-) options. This ensures accuracy.

Leveraging the Pen Tool for Precision

For intricate details, the Pen Tool is invaluable. Create a path around the subject by clicking to set anchor points.

Adjust the handles on each anchor point to fine-tune the curve of the path. Once complete, convert the path into a selection.

Refining Selections with Select and Mask

Select and Mask is a dedicated workspace for refining selections. It offers tools for edge detection, feathering, and contrast adjustment.

Use the "Refine Edge Brush" to improve the selection around hair or fur. This tool helps to capture fine details.

Utilizing Select Subject

The Select Subject feature uses artificial intelligence to automatically identify the primary subject in an image.

While convenient, it often requires refinement using other tools like the Quick Selection Tool or Select and Mask.

Outputting the Result

Once the background is removed, you can save the image as a PNG file to preserve transparency. This is essential for layering images in other projects.

Alternatively, you can copy the selected subject to a new layer in Photoshop, effectively isolating it from the original background.

Best Practices

• Non-Destructive Editing: Work on a duplicate layer to preserve the original image.
• Zoom In: Zooming in allows for more precise selections, especially around complex edges.
• Feathering: A slight feather can soften the edges of the selection for a more natural look.

Dear How-To Geek, I am writing to request your assistance. I unexpectedly found myself tasked with eliminating backgrounds from images intended for our company’s online product listings. My proficiency in Photoshop is quite basic, and I’m unsure of how to proceed.

I am facing a deadline of one month to complete this project. Could you provide guidance on easily removing photo backgrounds? The majority of the images feature relatively uncomplicated backgrounds. I would greatly appreciate your help. Sincerely, Photoshop Tripping in Pennsylvania

Dear Photoshop Tripping, Fortunately, we previously compiled a comprehensive collection of methods for removing photo backgrounds within Photoshop. A variety of techniques, ranging from straightforward to intricate, are covered.

Background Removal Techniques

You will discover a solution for removing almost any type of background in our tutorials available here and here. Consider exploring how to automate background removal using Photoshop actions, as detailed here.

Furthermore, a guide on tackling more complex backgrounds can be found here. These resources should provide you with the tools needed to efficiently complete your project.

Do you have a challenging technical question? Send an email to ask@howtogeek.com, and we will endeavor to provide a helpful response.