How to Lock the Taskbar in Windows

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

By
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Writer
Scott Orgera is a former Lifewire writer covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years' experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications including MCSE, MCP+I, and MOUS. He is also A+ certified.
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Updated on December 27, 2022

What to Know

  • Right-click any blank space on taskbar > select Lock the taskbar.
  • Or, right-click blank space on taskbar > select Taskbar settings or Properties > turn on Lock the taskbar.

This article explains how to lock the Windows taskbar, to ensure that it stays in one place on your screen. Instructions apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

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.

Lock the taskbar in menu

How to Lock the Windows Taskbar From the Settings

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

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

    Taskbar settings in menu

  2. 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.

    Lock the taskbar toggle

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.

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