How to Change the Windows XP Toolbar

The main toolbar in Windows XP is also known as the taskbar which is used by the operating system to launch and monitor applications. The Windows XP toolbar has many options including the Start button, the system clock, as well as quick launch shortcuts and icons for currently running programs. Changing the Windows XP toolbar can be done using a variety of methods to change the look and options that are available.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Move the toolbar to a different location on the screen. Left click on the toolbar and then drag it to the top or side of the screen. An outline will appear in the location where the toolbar will be moved.

2. Auto-hide the toolbar so that is does not appear on the screen. Right click on the toolbar, and select Properties from the Context menu. Click the option to "Auto-hide the taskbar," and then click the "Apply" button to save the change.

3. Resize the toolbar to increase the amount of running programs that can be seen. Place the mouse near the top of the toolbar until a double sided arrow appears. Left click and drag the mouse to increase the size of the toolbar.

4. Change the toolbar to the Windows Classic style. Right click on the desktop and select "Properties" from the context menu. Go to the appearance tab to select a new theme for the desktop and buttons. Select the "Windows Classic" style from the Windows and buttons drop down. Click the "Apply" button to save the change.

5. Add a new theme to Windows XP to change the appearance of the toolbar. One type of theme that is available is the Zune Desktop theme. Download and save the MSI file to a location on the system such as the desktop.

6. Double click on the file and go through the setup to install the theme to the system. Once the theme has been installed, the Display Properties window will appear to apply the new theme.

Tips & Warnings

• Right click on the toolbar and uncheck the "Lock the Taskbar" option to move and resize it. Place the mouse at the bottom of the screen to make the toolbar reappear. Go back to the Display Properties window to change to another theme.
• The taskbar cannot be resized or moved when it is locked.