Computer help forum: Lost my Start Menu button, taskbar and clock. XP Pro.

Joe, If my previous suggestion doesn't
correct the problem go to the link below and scroll down to line 195 (right column) and download the "Restore Desktop Icons and Taskbar" vbs file fix.

To use the VBS Files: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right click and use Save Target As). Double
click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is done.

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Tufenuf

Joe, Go to the link below and scroll down to line 15 (left column) to download the "Remove Common Tasks from the Desktop" reg file fix. Download the .reg file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right click and use Save Target As). Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the import prompt.

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Your problem will be corrected.

Tufenuf

I looked at it and it didn't work for me. I couldn't import it!
No big problem tho, I can put up with the pane on the left.
Thanks tufenuf

For a permanent and hassle-free solution, insert your copy of the O.S. disk in your CD/DVD reader drive and when the main setup window shows up, select "Repair Current Installation of Windows".

Wait until it tells you that the O.S.'s installation is, now, fully recovered.

Go to Microsoft.com's Download page and, Download + Install Service Pack 2. Do a thorough Clean Disk + Defrag Disk of your main C: Hard Drive. Use the new Windows Update feature for downloading and auto-install all the new updates/upgrades offered by the Microsoft Update's database.

Now, from here, check if your system can handle the very hefty Service Pack 3 from 2008's time. If yes, download and install at your leisure. Clean Disk + Defrag Disk again. Continue the windows update's procedure until your system will be fully up-to-date.

Purchasing a Tune-up program is highly advisable. It will keep your system in a constant stable status.

I know, it seems like a lot of work and wasted time in front of your Monitor screen but, in the end, you will feel the confidence that you will not have these issues again. Less, having to buy a complete new machine, all over, again.

For tufenuf, LJP,
I did the zipped file, it worked, Computer is now humming right along, doing good. I do have a program by Avanquest, Fix-It Utilities Pro. for keeping it all together, and after some initial difficulties, it too seems to be working OK.
Thanks a bunch for your help. See original post - My wife was right.
Joe

If you hold your mouse cursor over the spot where your taskbar used to be, then it should appear...like magic! When it appears, right-click on it, then go to 'Properties'. A new small window will appear. On the 'Taskbar' tab, look for "Auto-hide the taskbar" and uncheck that box to make your taskbar stop disappearing.