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"Classic" Win Explorer / Normal Desktop (WinXP)?

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2.7K views 3 replies 3 participants last post by  Rich M  
C
#1 ·
When I set up my IBM Thinkpad for use a year or so ago, I somehow figured out how to open Windows Explorer using the old "classic" Windows 9X look (I simply like the familiarity of it). I had some spyware issues which are resolved, but I had to revert my desktop and other items back to WinXP default. Now when I select "Windows Explorer" via the Start Menu, my desktop pops back up. There is also a large "sidebar" on the left of the desktop with the following items: Folder Tasks, Other Places, Details. This sidebar was not on my desktop prior to my spyware issues. I have searched and toyed within WinXP to see how to get rid of these side items and get a normal desktop again (and also go back to using the Windows Explorer I am used to). Any ideas? I know this is probably a simple one but I am at a loss.

Thanks in advance,

Charles
 
S
#2 ·
To get rid of the side menu just right mouse on either toolbar( a blank bit) and goto toolbar and untick them all.
you can untick" lock the taskbar " and grab any toolbar by the little grey line and drag it to anywhere you like like back to the bottom where it belongs

BTW my computer is windows explorer, if you got your desktop setting and press customise desktop and tick it on, you wouldnt need to uses the start menu to get to explorer

if you hit the folders button once "my computer" is up it will have that useful explorer thingy on the left, which is what you are used to.

HTH
 
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C
#3 · (Edited)
That is the odd thing. This is not a "toolbar" on the left side of the screen. It is more like part of the desktop and I am unable to right click in that area. It is not adjustible or movable like a normal taskbar. It takes up at 1/4 of the screen and whatever chagnes/adjustments I make to my taskbar, this side area is still there.

By the way, thanks for the assistance with the explorer/folders info also. I'm a creature of habit I guess and that is the view I like. Thanks.
 
R
#4 ·
Easiest way is go into My Computer, click open C drive, then open Windows folder, and scroll down beyond the folders look for "explorer" icon where yellow folder has magnifying dot in center, and right click create shortcut, then drag shortcut to "quick launch" (after unlocking taskbar)... then it is so easy to use and it looks like what you remember.
 
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