How to Use Windows Sidebar in Vista

The Windows Vista Sidebar is an accessory program included in all versions of Vista that allows you to use and edit gadgets on your desktop. Gadgets are either connected to a location on your computer or the Internet and update automatically so you can keep up with your stocks, the weather and your computer's processor usage, or simply view your pictures at a glance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Open the Windows Vista Sidebar. From the Start menu, select Accessories and then Windows Sidebar. The Sidebar now displays on the right side of your desktop.
2. View the current gadgets on the Sidebar. Default gadgets include a picture slideshow, a clock and the weather.
3. Add a new gadget to the Sidebar. Click on the "+" icon in the upper left of the Sidebar to open the Gadgets window. Double-click on a gadget to add it.
4. Adjust the settings for a gadget on the Windows Vista Sidebar. Move the mouse cursor over a gadget, such as the weather gadget. Click on the white wrench icon that appears to the right of the gadget to open the settings dialog box for the gadget. Make and save your adjustments.
5. Delete a gadget from the Sidebar. Move the mouse cursor over a gadget. Click on the white "x" icon that appears to the right of the gadget.

Tips & Warnings

• Search for more gadgets online using the link at the bottom of the Gadgets window.
• Not all gadgets are created by Microsoft. Make sure you trust the creator of a gadget or the website where you found the gadget before downloading it.

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