How to Lock the Taskbar in Windows

Keep your Windows taskbar in one place while you're online

An image of an imaginary lock comprised of computer motherboard parts.

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By
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Writer
Scott Orgera is a former writer who covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications.
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Scott Orgera
Updated October 20, 2019

The Windows taskbar is positioned at the bottom of the screen by default, but you can shift it to different locations by clicking and dragging. Because it's so easy to move by accident, you might want to lock the Windows taskbar into place. Locking the taskbar is especially recommend if the PC is used by more than one person.

Instructions in this article apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

What Is the Windows Taskbar?

The Windows taskbar provides quick access to frequently-used applications, important system settings, and incoming notifications. It also houses the Start Menu and the Windows search box.

You can customize your Windows taskbar by pinning applications, changing the language settings, and more.

How to Lock the Taskbar in Windows 10, 8, and 7

To lock or unlock the Windows taskbar, right-click any blank space on the taskbar and select Lock the taskbar.

You will see a check mark if the taskbar is already locked. If there is no check mark, left-click once to lock the taskbar, and left-click again to unlock it.

To lock or unlock the Windows taskbar, right-click any blank space on the taskbar and select Lock the taskbar.

How to Lock the Windows Taskbar From Your Settings

It's also possible to lock the taskbar in place from your Windows Setting:

  1. Right-click any blank space on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings (Windows 10) or Properties (Windows 7 and 8).

    Right-click any blank space on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings (Windows 10) or Properties (Windows 7 and 8).

  2. Set the toggle switch under Lock the taskbar to On.

On Windows 7 and 8, select the Taskbar tab, and then check the box beside Lock the taskbar.

Set the toggle switch under Lock the taskbar to On.