Locking and Unlocking the Taskbar

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated March 18, 2019)

Most of the time, you'll work on your computer with the Taskbar locked. When it is locked, it cannot be moved or resized by mistake. There are times, however, when you want to unlock it—obviously to move or resize it.

Start by right-clicking an empty spot on the Taskbar. On the resulting Context menu, you can either select or de-select the Lock the Taskbar option. (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1. Locking and unlocking the taskbar.

If a check mark appears next to the Lock the Taskbar option, then the Taskbar is currently locked. If the check mark is missing, then the Taskbar is unlocked.

 This tip (12554) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

Displaying Hidden and System Files in a Folder

Files (and folders) can be marked hidden so that you don't see them in Windows Explorer. This tip tells you how to ...

Discover More

Using the Hosts File to Block Content

Although there are better methods, you can use the Hosts file to block access to specific websites. This tip tells you how.

Discover More

What are Modern Apps?

The capabilities of apps changed with Windows 10. What, exactly, are modern apps and how are they different from earlier ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Hiding the Taskbar when It is Not in Use

Don't like the Taskbar visible on the screen? You can easily hide it when you aren't using it by making just one small ...

Discover More

How to Remove Cortana's Search Box

If you want to free up some space on the taskbar, consider eliminating Cortana's search box. This tip tells you how.

Discover More

News and Interest Widget in the Taskbar

A new Windows feature allows for quick access to news and weather directly from the Taskbar. See how to turn this feature ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is one more than 4?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)

Newest Tips
Links and Sharing
OUR COMPANY
OUR PRODUCTS
OUR SITES
 

Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.