How to Lock or Unlock the Taskbar in Windows 8

   Information

This will show you how to lock or unlock the taskbar in Windows 8 to allow you to be able to move the taskbar to any border on the desktop, or move toolbars on the taskbar.

When the taskbar is unlocked, you will see a dotted separator line to the left of pinned apps and any toolbars.

EXAMPLE: Taskbar

OPTION ONE

Lock or Unlock Taskbar from the Taskbar

1. Go to the Desktop.
NOTE: You could press the Windows + D keys to do so.

2. Right click on a empty space on the taskbar, then do step 3 or 4 below for what you would like to do. (see screenshot below)

3. To Lock the Taskbar
NOTE: This is the default setting.

A) Click on Lock the taskbar to check it.

4. To Unlock the Taskbar

A) Click on Lock the taskbar to uncheck it.

OPTION TWO

Lock or Unlock Taskbar from Taskbar Properties

1. Go to the Desktop.
NOTE: You could press the Windows + D keys to do so.

2. Right click on a empty space on the taskbar, click on Properties, then do step 3 or 4 below for what you would like to do. (see screenshot below)

3. To Lock the Taskbar
NOTE: This is the default setting.

A) Check the Lock the taskbar box, and click on OK.

4. To Unlock the Taskbar

A) Uncheck the Lock the taskbar box, and click on OK.

OPTION THREE

Lock or Unlock Taskbar Using a BAT File

1. Do step 2 or 3 below for what you would like to do.

2. To Lock the Taskbar
NOTE: This is the default setting.

A) Click on the Download button below to download the .bat file below, then run it.

Lock_Taskbar.bat

B) Go to step 4.

3. To Unlock the Taskbar

A) Click on the Download button below to download the .bat file below, then run it.

Unlock_Taskbar.bat

B) Go to step 4.

4. If prompted, click on Run and Yes (UAC).
NOTE: If you like, you can stop getting the Run prompt by unblocking the downloaded .bat file.

5. You will now notice your screen flash as explorer is restarted to apply the registry changes.

That's it,
Shawn