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Windows XP Taskbar - Toolbar - Start Menu

Keep the Taskbar Hidden Until Needed

SUMMARY: Auto-hide your Windows XP Taskbar until you need it.

While the Windows XP taskbar makes navigating your machine and currently-open programs convenient, it does take up room on your screen that could be otherwise used for your applications. If you'd like the taskbar to remain hidden until you need it by moving your mouse pointer to the bottom of the screen, follow these instructions:

1. Right-click an empty area of the Taskbar and choose "Properties".
2. When the "Taskbar and Start Menu Properties" dialog box appears, select the "Taskbar" tab.
3. Check "Auto-hide the taskbar".
4. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

Now, when you move your mouse pointer away from the bottom of the screen, the taskbar will disappear. Move your pointer to the bottom of the screen and your taskbar will reappear.