How do I Restore the Taskbar and Desktop Icons in Windows XP?

The desktop icons and taskbar in Windows XP are generated by a file called explorer.exe. When this file stops working or crashes, the taskbar and Start menu disappear, as do all icons on the desktop. If you turn off your computer, the problem will normally be resolved when explorer.exe restarts, but you risk file corruption when you do not shut down normally. The optimum way to restore your desktop icons and taskbar is to stop and restart explorer.exe.

Instructions

1. Press "Ctrl" + "Alt" + "Delete" to open the Windows Security window. Click "Task Manager."

2. Click "File," and select "New Task (Run...)." Type "explorer.exe." Click "OK."

3. Close "Task Manager." The taskbar and desktop icons will be restored.

Tips & Warnings

• If explorer.exe stops working often, the problem may be the result of recent changes to your computer. Restore your system files to an earlier point using System Restore. Click "Start," "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and click "System Restore." Click "Restore My Computer to an Earlier Time" and choose a Restore Point before explorer.exe began to malfunction. Click "Next" and "OK" to start the System Restore.

References

• Microsoft; Windows XP System Restore Is Easy to Use; Joli Ballew; May 2003