Dock Quick Launch to Desktop in Vista - How To

Docking Toolbars to the Desktop in Windows Vista

In earlier iterations of the Windows operating system, a frequently utilized function allowed users to affix toolbars to the desktop's periphery. Many individuals employed this capability to create an automatically concealing quick launch bar or an address toolbar, or both simultaneously.

Implementing this feature in Windows Vista requires an initial step: the creation of a new folder within a location such as your personal user directory.

Subsequently, drag this newly created folder to either the screen's edge or its upper boundary. This action will cause it to automatically dock in that position. Ensure the mouse cursor is moved as far towards the edge as possible during the drag operation to prevent simply relocating the folder onto the desktop itself.

Right-click on the docked folder and select the "Toolbars" option from the context menu. This will reveal a list of all toolbars currently registered with the system.

Selecting a Toolbar

From the available options, choose the desired toolbar. For demonstration purposes, we will select the Quick Launch toolbar in this instance.

The selected toolbar is now docked to the side of the screen. However, customization is often desirable to optimize its appearance and functionality.

To remove the initially created folder, right-click on the toolbar. Then, choose "Toolbars" again and deselect the folder name (in our example, it was named "Toolbar").

Adjusting the icon size is also possible. Right-click on the toolbar, select "View," and then choose "Small Icons." The option to "Auto-Hide" the toolbar is also available within this menu.

Utilizing the Address Toolbar

Docking the toolbar to the top of the screen generally provides a more effective experience when using the address toolbar.

This method is applicable to a wide range of toolbars, including those for Google, iTunes, Windows Media Player, and any other application offering a toolbar interface.

This allows for convenient access to frequently used functions and features directly from the desktop environment.