How to Lock the Taskbar Only While on Desktop in Windows

The taskbar is an essential component of the Windows operating system, providing quick access to applications, notifications, and system settings. However, depending on your workflow, you might want to adjust how the taskbar behaves, particularly when you’re working on the desktop versus when you have multiple applications open. In this guide, we will explore methods to lock the taskbar visibility on the desktop while allowing it to hide when applications are in full-screen mode. Whether you prefer using the built-in Windows settings or a more advanced script-based approach, we’ve got you covered.

Method 1: Using Windows Built-in Taskbar Settings

The simplest way to manage your taskbar visibility is through the Windows Settings application. This method is straightforward and doesn’t require any third-party software.

Step 1: Access Taskbar Settings

Start by right-clicking on an empty area of your taskbar. From the context menu that appears, select “Taskbar settings.” This action will take you to the Taskbar settings page within the Windows Settings app.

Step 2: Configure Taskbar Behavior

Once you’re in the Taskbar settings, scroll down to the “Taskbar behaviors” section. Here, look for the option labeled “Automatically hide the taskbar.” Check the box next to this option to enable it. When activated, the taskbar will automatically hide whenever you open an application or window, providing you with more screen real estate for your tasks.

Step 3: Return to Your Desktop Screen

Navigate back to your desktop. You should notice that the taskbar remains hidden by default. To make it visible again, simply move your cursor to the bottom edge of your screen (or wherever your taskbar is located), and it will temporarily reappear.

While this built-in method effectively hides the taskbar when applications are open, it also means that it will be hidden on the desktop itself. If your goal is to keep the taskbar visible only on the desktop but hidden when applications are maximized or in full-screen mode, you’ll need to turn to a third-party solution.

Method 2: Using AutoHotkey for Custom Taskbar Behavior

For those looking for greater customization, AutoHotkey is a powerful tool that allows you to create scripts to control taskbar behavior. This method is particularly suited to more advanced users who are comfortable with scripting.

Step 1: Download and Install AutoHotkey

First, download AutoHotkey from the official website and install it on your computer. After the installation is complete, create a new text document on your desktop and rename it with a “.ahk” extension, such as “TaskbarVisibility.ahk.”

Step 2: Edit the Script

Right-click the newly created “.ahk” file and select “Edit script.” In the text editor that opens, copy and paste the following script snippet. This script will hide the taskbar when applications are maximized or in full-screen mode but will display it again when you’re back on the desktop:

1#Persistent
2SetTimer, CheckActiveWindow, 500
3return
4
5CheckActiveWindow:
6WinGet, activeWindow, ID, A
7WinGet, windowState, MinMax, ahk_id %activeWindow%
8
9if (windowState = 1) ; Window is maximized
10{
11    WinHide, ahk_class Shell_TrayWnd
12}
13else
14{
15    WinShow, ahk_class Shell_TrayWnd
16}
17return

Step 3: Save and Run the Script

After pasting the script, save the file and double-click it to run the script. AutoHotkey will now control your taskbar visibility based on the active window’s state. If you wish to stop the script at any time, right-click the AutoHotkey icon located in your system tray and select “Exit.”

Note

This script offers a foundational function for managing taskbar visibility, but you might want to modify it further to suit your specific needs. AutoHotkey’s official documentation contains extensive resources that can assist you in refining the script.

Conclusion

Managing taskbar visibility can significantly enhance your productivity by allowing you to focus on your tasks without distractions. Whether you choose the easy built-in settings method or leverage the power of scripting with AutoHotkey, both methods provide options to lock the taskbar on the desktop and hide it when applications are in use. Experiment with these methods to find the one that best fits your workflow, and enjoy a cleaner, more organized desktop experience. Happy computing!