How to Lock the Taskbar in Windows

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

Updated on November 13, 2020

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

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 the 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'll see a check mark if the taskbar is locked. If there isn't a check mark, select Lock the taskbar once to lock it, and select Lock the taskbar again to unlock it.

How to Lock the Windows Taskbar From the Settings

You also can lock the taskbar in place from the Windows settings:

Right-click a blank space on the taskbar, then select Taskbar settings (in Windows 10) or Properties (in Windows 7 and 8).
Set the toggle switch under Lock the taskbar to On.

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

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