Customizing Windows

Removing the notification area
The notification area is the right side of the taskbar, where all of the little system tray icons are located. This item is not critical to the operation of the system and can be removed if you want more room for your open programs and other toolbars. However, any program such as an instant messenger program, that might minimize itself to the notification area will be a little more difficult to get to. The only way to remove the notification area is to use the Group Policy Editor. Unfortunately, this will only work if you are using Windows XP Pro. If you are running Windows XP Pro, then follow these steps to remove the notification area:

1. Launch the Group Policy Editor by clicking the Start button and then selecting Run. Type gpedit.msc in the box and click OK.

2. Once the policy editor has loaded, expand Administrative Templates, and then select Start Menu and Taskbar.

3. Locate and select Hide the Notification Area. Right-click it and select Properties.

4. Then, just click Enable and click the OK button to save your changes.

The next time you log on, your notification area will be gone. If you want to free up even more room, consider removing the clock by reading the next section.

Removing the clock from the taskbar
The clock can be very useful if you don’t have any other clocks in the same room as your computer. Otherwise, it is just taking up space. After all, how many clocks do you really need? If you want the maximum amount of space for your toolbars and open programs on the taskbar, I suggest that you also remove the clock.

Removing the clock is extremely simple. Follow these quick instructions:

1. Right-click the system clock and select Properties.

2. Then, under the Notification Area on the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties window, uncheck Show the Clock.

3. Click OK to save your changes and the clock will be gone.