Pin Any File to Windows 7 Taskbar

Pinning Files Directly to the Windows 7 Taskbar

Each week, we feature helpful tips submitted by our readers. This week’s highlight details a method for pinning any file directly to the Windows 7 taskbar, accompanied by a useful tutorial video.

Robert Jasiński submitted a resourceful technique for pinning specific files to the taskbar. Typically, dragging a file—such as a text document—onto the taskbar results in pinning the associated application, like Notepad.

The Challenge of File Association

This behavior extends to any file linked to an executable. However, what if you need to pin the specific file itself, rather than the program used to open it?

Robert’s solution provides a workaround for this limitation, allowing independent file pinning.

Robert’s Method: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process involves a few key steps:

First, create a placeholder file, such as a new text document.
Next, rename this file, changing its extension to .EXE.
Then, drag the renamed file onto the Windows Taskbar to initiate the pinning process.
Navigate to the following directory: "C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\TaskBar", replacing USERNAME with your account’s username.
Within this directory, replace the “empty” executable file with a genuine shortcut pointing to your desired file.
Crucially, ensure the shortcut’s name precisely matches the name of the pinned shortcut.
Finally, restart Windows, or force a refresh of Windows Explorer through Task Manager, to update the taskbar icons.

Following these steps allows you to bypass the application association and pin files independently.

This method offers greater control over taskbar customization.

A Thank You to Our Contributor

Thanks to Robert for sharing this clever tip and creating a corresponding video tutorial! This provides a clear and concise demonstration of the process.

Do you have a helpful tip you’d like to share with the community? Whether you have a tutorial video or not, send your submissions to tips@howtogeek.com. Your tip could be featured on our front page!