• Many Windows XP taskbar issues can be solved by configuring the properties of the taskbar.hand on laptop keyboard image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
  
  The Windows XP taskbar helps users work efficiently by organizing tasks, folders and other processes. The Windows XP taskbar also offers several customizable toolbars to provide easy access to frequently used files. Microsoft's website explains several issues that have been reported involving the Windows XP taskbar. Three of the most common issues with the Windows XP taskbar are unorganized or cluttered taskbar buttons, accidental relocation of the taskbar and the taskbar becoming hidden behind other windows.
  
  

Location of the Taskbar

• The taskbar can be placed on the bottom, top or either side of your desktop. If you have unintentionally moved the taskbar from the bottom of the desktop, drag the taskbar back to the bottom of the computer by left-clicking an empty area the taskbar and holding the button down while dragging your mouse to the bottom of the desktop. Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar and select "Lock the Taskbar" if you are unable to move the taskbar.
  
  

Cluttered with Icons

• The taskbar can become cluttered with buttons, icons and other files. This is because your taskbar is not organized properly. Right-click an empty area on the taskbar, select "Properties" and view the "Taskbar" tab. Click the check box beside "Group similar taskbar buttons" if it is not already checked. Click "Apply" and "OK" to save these changes.
  
  

Taskbar Hides Behind other Windows

• If your taskbar is no longer visible once you open a file or window on your computer, you must enable the taskbar to remain on top of other windows. Right-click on the taskbar, select "Properties" and click "Taskbar." Click the check box beside "Keep the taskbar on top of other windows" and click "Apply" and "OK" to save these changes.