"Offering free computer help, hints, and tips to the Internet populace." Now with over 3,820 tips!

Windows XP Taskbar - Toolbar - Start Menu

Quickly Close an Application from the Taskbar

SUMMARY: Close applications hidden by other windows by running a Close command on the Windows XP taskbar.

Do you need to shut down an application that you currently cannot see onscreen yet has an icon on the Windows XP taskbar? Don't waste time by clicking the taskbar icon and then choosing "File" - "Exit" or "Close" from the application. Just right-click the taskbar icon and choose "Close" from the popup menu that appears. Most (if not all) applications should still prompt you if any files need to be saved.