For many users, a large number of programs are loaded at the start of the computer. For example, antivirus, firewall, skype and more. By default, they are all displayed in the tray of the taskbar. If, in addition, while the computer is running, you run five to ten basic working programs (text editor, browser, mail program, explorer, etc.), then the taskbar itself will be heavily loaded with elements that will greatly complicate your orientation and clutter up the working space. It is often necessary to hide unnecessary items in the taskbar.
Necessary
a computer running a Windows operating system
Instructions
Step 1
If you need to remove or reduce the number of programs that are displayed in the tray, you can go in two ways. First of all, check if you need all the programs that are loaded at startup? Often times, elements such as the Soundcard Control Center icon are completely useless. You can not just hide them, but delete them from startup. To do this, the easiest way is to use the msconfig tool, which comes with all versions of Windows older than Windows 2000. Run msconfig (by default, Start -> Run -> msconfig), then go to the Startup tab and disable (uncheck the boxes) with unnecessary items. After that click OK and restart your computer.
Step 2
You can also configure the option to hide unused items in the taskbar tray. To do this, left-click the "Start" -> "Settings" -> "Taskbar and Start Menu" sequence and check the "Hide unused icons" checkbox. By clicking the "Configure" button, you will determine how the icons will be hidden. If you want them not to appear in the tray at all, you should select "Always hide". Otherwise, if you want the element to be hidden only in the absence of work with this program, leave the default or select "Hide if inactive".
Step 3
In addition, you can use the standard features of the program itself. Some programs can be configured so that when minimized, they will be in the tray. And already in the tray, if necessary, you can hide them as described above. To remove a program in Windows Seven from the taskbar, just use the standard option. Hover the cursor over the unnecessary program, then right-click and select "Remove program from taskbar" from the menu that appears.
