Cleaning Your Windows
http://www.technologyreview.com/articles/print_version/wo_garfinkel012804.asp

Garfinkel, Simson L.
Technology Review
2004

Abstract:

If you're stuck in the rut of the default settings that Microsoft applies to its software, you're missing out: Here's a guide to customizing Windows systems to strip away annoying 'features' and enhance usability.