God Mode is an interesting name for it and perhaps it should be dropped. I say this for several reasons. First of all, it’s not true to its name because it really doesn’t do anything above and beyond what Windows Vista and Windows 7 allow us to do already. Secondly, the term “God Mode”, contrary to popular thought, does not really need to be part of the process.
That being said, God Mode is a title that it has acquired and therefore it is pretty widely known as such. The God Mode hack for Windows Vista and Windows 7 is a quick and easy way to make a panel that offers quick and easy access to quite the exhaustive list of Windows settings.
In this article I would like to share how to do the god mode hack AND several ways to make better use of the shortcut once created.
Let me first mention that it has been purported that this hack can have adverse effects on a 64 bit Windows Vista system so please don’t attempt this if that is your operating system. If you are not sure if your Vista system is the 64 bit version, just check in the System Information Window which is found in the Control Panel and is called “System.”
This article will be depicting screenshots of a Windows Vista system only. Realize that this god mode hack will also work with Windows 7.
First of all, let me share with you how to do the hack creating the desired shortcut.
DISCLAIMER: Just so you know, this idea is not a new one. It has been shared with the general public already by many sources, one of which being cnet. The basic idea is to create a folder in any location on the hard drive. The trick is in the name. Most instructions you will come across will tell you to name the folder “GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}” without the quotes but it really doesn’t matter whether or not you use the word combination “GodMode.” The important part is the rest of it.
I named the folder on my system “Windows Settings.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}” for several reasons. One, I think it describes it better and two, I think using the term “GodMode” is a somewhat flippant use for the title of God. Call it whatever you want.
Anyhow, this hack is really cool because it contains virtually all the settings for your Windows system in one place. If you’ve used Windows before, you’ll understand how incredibly helpful this is! No more hunting and trying to remember where that specific setting is located just so you can do that tiny tweak you once knew how to do. Even aside from that, the sheer amount of clicking that you are saved from makes it worth it all!
OK, now for a few tips on how to make better use of the “GodMode” hack.
1. Make It Easily Accessible At A Moment’s Notice!
You can always do the easy-peasy desktop shortcut. I, for one HATE having shortcuts all over my desktop which is why I typically keep them all hidden. My suggestion is to create a quick start link on your taskbar. I have all my important programs linked there so I hardly ever even need to visit the Start menu!
Then there’s always the infamous Rocket Dock, making Windows one more step closer to mimicking the Apple.
2. Sort Those Settings Links!
One of the first things I noticed about the list of settings was how disorganized they appeared. Well, if you look carefully, you’ll notice that you can click to sort them! You can put them in order alphabetically by name, application or keywords. To me it would seem that the application would be the most logical way to sort them, but to each his own, right?
3. Filter For The Settings You’re Looking For!
Although it is present in all file folders, the nifty little search box at the top of the window is a real time saver when you’re looking for specific settings within that exhaustive list. If you have the slightest idea of what you’re looking for, begin to type it and watch the unwanted settings drop off! Simple yet effective!
How about it? Is the God Mode hack what it’s cracked up to be? Do you have a better solution to quickly find the settings you’re looking for? Let us know!
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I agree with you about the name. I think too many of us (me included) throw God’s name around way too flippantly these days (until we need Him, of course).
It’s nice (and rare) to see someone who’s not scared to voice an opinion about something like that.
“Then there’s always the infamous Rocket Dock…” – Why infamous??? I have been using it for the past couple of years (installed it on all the computers I work with, on different operating systems – windows XP, windows Server, Windows 7). I highly recommend it. It’s quick to respond, doesn’t take up any screen assets (using the “auto hide” feature) – and addictive.
Actually, my new Dell laptop came pre-installed with a Dell inferior imitation of rocket dock, which I quickly replaced with Rocket Dock…
I suppose I used the wrong word there! I did not intend to infer such negativity! I think I meant “famous.” I also have begun using Rocket Dock and love it.
Timmy boy, I really hope you were not venting some religious inferiority complex when speaking about “God Mode.” The reality is “God” was most likely used just to precisely explain the power of the option and for a little marketing fun (God of War video game, anyone?). So put away any conspiracy theories and just take it at face value — “god”
= having supreme control. In this case, that is computer control (small “g” makes it grammatically correct).
I absolutely agree God’s name should never be used in vain or as a wisecrack given the millions of people who have honored God for thousands of years, and have done so for much longer than any of us have been on this planet.
I’m not sure if “GodMode” was an original label for this hack. I hear it was “dubbed” further on down the line from the original discoverer. I don’t think it was even Microsoft that released the hint purposefully.
I wouldn’t call it “venting” necessarily. I just think there are better names for it. That’s all. Like I said, I named it “Windows Settings” because I think it suits it better.
This so called God Mode,they make such a hype about,is quite old and not very helpful. I found it in my evernote archiv and had tried it out long ago.
http://www.itsmywindows.com/category/how-do-i (Oktober 21st, 2008). The side seems no longer to be available.
“Method 1:
1) Create a new folder and name it Master Control.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}
2) The icon will be changed automatically to Control Panel’s icon. Now open the folder and see the magic of Windows Registry!”
You can find the same instruction here (for instance)
http://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/681126-create-a-master-control-panel-in-windows-vista/
Date: 12. Oktober 2008 ! ! !
Thanks for the tip. I understand the trick is not new, it’s just getting a lot of publicity now. Some may find it helpful, some not. I found it helpful so I shared it.
Is the hack a problem for 64-bit Windows 7 as well as Vista?
It should work fine on both 32 and 64 bit Windows 7.
Wow this was great. Put it on W7/32. But 15 minutes later while in Firefox (that window was not even open) I blue screened. Hmmm. How can a simple folder cause that?
OK, shortly after that, lost all internet connectivity. Have done nothing else that would have such an impact today. I have deleted that shortcut, cleared recycle bin. Seems like all is back to normal.
Again, How could a simple short cut do this? Anyone know the details? I am looking for the key in the registry to see if it can help explain.
Not too sure. Like I said, I run Vista 32 and I did it without an issue.
The term “god mode” has been around for almost 20 years, and is not an invention of Microsoft. It’s refers to a cheat code or hack in a game that gives the player invincibility and/or other abilities such that they are many times more powerful than the enemies.
If you find the term offensive, don’t capitalize it, just like we do with other “god” words like godspeed, godson, and godsend.
I understand what “god mode” means, hence this statement: “it really doesn’t do anything above and beyond what Windows Vista and Windows 7 allow us to do already.” This hack doesn’t really give the user any other abilities like the term “God mode” would indicate.
I agree and thank you.
Can I just call it “Hitler Mode” ?
Like I said, call it whatever you want. Ray from Las Vegas may like your idea though! LOL!
You fools use the name of god without knowing its true meaning. Not all of you but those who use it freely and take it invain. Why could’nt they name it wild mode or Access all mode? They need to reconsider their naming
Non-biased Deity Mode.
Faith-based Control Mode.
heh…