Chapter 2. The Desktop

After you log on, Windows displays the desktop (Figure 2.1). The desktop is the backdrop of your working environment and lets you organize the resources on your computer. The Start menu is the central location that lists the most useful folders, programs, and commands. The taskbar tells you what programs are running on your computer and lets you activate or close them. The sidebar contains handy mini-programs called gadgets.

Basic desktop elements. Your desktop may have a different background or icons, depending on your setup and regular use.

Figure 2.1. Basic desktop elements. Your desktop may have a different background or icons, depending on your setup and regular use.

Exploring the Start Menu

The Start menu (Figure 2.2) lets you:

  • Start programs ...

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