What's new with the Windows Vista desktop?
In this article There are some new features on the Windows desktop to help you access your information quickly, personalize your computer, find programs and files, and quickly switch between open programs and files.
Switch to a different window
You can quickly switch between windows by clicking the new Switch between windows button 
on the taskbar. Press TAB until you've highlighted the window you want to open, and then click it to open it.
Windows Sidebar and gadgets
Windows Sidebar provides a way to organize the information, games, and tasks that you want to access quickly without cluttering your workspace. It's made up of gadgets, which are customizable mini-programs that can display continuously updated headlines, a picture slide show, contacts, and more, without having to open a new window.
For more information, see Windows Sidebar: frequently asked questions
 |
| Windows Sidebar |
A new, expanded search
You can now search the Start menu to find programs, documents, pictures, music, and videos. You can also search among your e‑mail messages, saved instant messages, appointments, contacts, Internet favorites and the history of webpages you've visited. If any of these webpages include the search term, they appear under a heading called "Favorites and History."
To search the Start menu, begin typing the first couple of letters of a word, name, or phrase in the Search box. As you type, the Start menu changes to show the best possible matches, with priority given to the programs you open most frequently. The more letters you type, the more the results narrow until there are only a couple of items left in the list.
 |
| A search |
You don't have to know the entire name of the program or other item you want to find to use Search. You can also look for a type of program. For example, if you don't know the name of your e‑mail program, you can try typing e‑mail to get the right result.
Desktop
The work area on a computer screen that simulates the top of an actual desk. You can arrange icons on the desktop, such as the Recycle Bin and shortcuts to programs, files, folders, and various types of documents, just as you would arrange real objects on top of a desk.
Program
A set of instructions that a computer uses to perform a specific task, such as word processing, accounting, or data management. Also called an application.
Favorites
A list of links to websites saved in your web browser. Saving a website as a favorite allows you to return to it quickly.
Help and How-to
