Windows Sidebar and Gadgets

Windows Sidebar is a Vista feature that provides you with quick access to information through Windows Gadgets, small programs that can run on your Desktop.

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Windows Sidebar and Gadgets provide you with quick access to useful information

In addition to some cosmetic changes, the Desktop in Windows Vista sports Windows Sidebar and Gadgets.

Windows Sidebar

Windows Sidebar is a new feature in Windows Vista that provides you with quick access to information through gadgets. The sidebar is usually displayed on the side of the desktop, but you can configure the gadgets to appear on top of other windows or in different locations if desired.

Windows Gadgets

Gadgets are mini-applications that have many purposes. In the screen shot above, four gadgets are displayed in the Sidebar – a calculator, a clock, a RSS reader, and a currency converter. The gadgets provide you with information or tools that you use frequently, allowing your computer use to become more efficient. Windows Vista comes with several gadgets you can add to the Sidebar, or you can find additional gadgets at the Windows Live Gallery. As Windows Vista is adopted by computer users, you can expect to find more gadgets available, and many gadgets can be customized.

Learn how to use the Windows Sidebar:

• Show the Sidebar
• Keep the Sidebar on top of other windows
• Personalize a gadget
• Add a gadget to the Sidebar