Audit mode in Windows allows manufacturers and resellers to set up custom configurations and test the operating system before shipping a computer. Users can access it by pressing Control, Shift, and F3 during startup. In audit mode, users have access to a built-in administrator account and can make changes without going through the welcome screen. It is different from safe mode, where the operating system restricts user operations.
Audit mode is an operating system setting in Windows that allows users to access the desktop and configure changes without having to enter settings or set up a user account. End consumers rarely need the control mode. Instead, manufacturers and resellers use it to set up custom configurations and test the operating system before shipping a computer to a user. People can access this boot option by pressing the Control, Shift, and F3 buttons simultaneously while starting up the computer.
Normally, when someone starts a new installation of Windows, they are greeted with a welcome screen. The user has to go through a series of prompts to set up an account and password, establish a time zone, and so on. This can take 10 to 20 minutes and the system will configure these changes before delivering the user to the desktop. At this point, the user can begin interacting with the operating system, making further changes and using the computer.
In audit mode, the computer ignores this step. It launches directly to the desktop and the user has access to a built-in administrator account. People can add and remove software, customize the system, and make other desired changes during this process. They can also validate your Windows installation, check for conflicts and make sure your computer is working properly. After shutting down, when the computer restarts, it will open with the welcome screen.
An advantage of audit mode is that the user will still feel like the computer is brand new, as no traces of it remain. The technician does not have to set up a user account or set generic settings by going through the welcome screen to make changes to the system. This can be important when preparing a computer for sale, as users generally want the impression that they are the first to boot a new computer, although this is never the case, as someone has to boot the computer during setup to make sure it works properly.
In audit mode, people have access to a full range of features, including the ability to connect to networks and make a variety of system changes. This differs from safe mode, where the operating system restricts user operations. In safe mode, people can do things like roll back installations to fix system conflicts, remove malware, and so on. People can enter safe mode by pressing F8 during startup. A prompt menu will appear asking which mode the user would like to boot into. After shutting down, the computer will boot normally.
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