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Windows XP and the Display - Desktop

Toggle Menu Shadowing

SUMMARY: Toggle whether Windows XP displays shadows underneath menus as they are selected.

Depending on your Windows XP configuration, when you select menu items in most applications, the area around the menu may appear in shadow. This visually helps the menu stand out from the rest of the application or window.

Menu shadowing may require a little extra graphics or CPU processing, so it can be disabled if you do not need this "eye candy".


Menu shadowing in Notepad (note this screenshot has been blown up to enhance detail)



1 Right-click an empty area of your Desktop and choose "Properties".

2. When the "Display Properties" multi-tabbed dialog box appears, click the "Appearance" tab.

3. Click the "Effects" button.

4. When the "Effects" dialog box appears, check or uncheck "Show shadows under menus" as desired.

5. Click "OK" to close the dialog boxes, and your Desktop icons will resize as desired.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download. < more >