How to Run Windows Control Panel items directly

To run specific Control Panel items without running the Control Panel, all you need to do is run the relevant *.cpl file: for example, to open the Display Properties window directly, click Start, Run and then enter Desk.cpl and click OK.

You can also right-click Control Panel applets (under Start, Control Panel) and select Create Shortcut to add a shortcut to your desktop.

Microsoft also provides a brief summary of *.cpl files under A Description of Control Panel (.cpl) Files.