desktop icon disappeared

[roscoe james]

I used to have a desktop icon on my taskbar beside my Start button. It's
disappeared for some unknown reason. I've tried to put a new one there but
when I click on it I get the Desktop folder. I want the actual Desktop with
the background, icons, etc. That way I can switch between what ever programs
I am running and the Desktop with one click. Anyone with any idea on how to
access this?

Thank you.

 

[Trevor L.]

I used to have a desktop icon on my taskbar beside my Start button.
It's disappeared for some unknown reason. I've tried to put a new one
there but when I click on it I get the Desktop folder. I want the
actual Desktop with the background, icons, etc. That way I can switch
between what ever programs I am running and the Desktop with one
click. Anyone with any idea on how to access this?

Thank you.

From a reply to a similar query

How to Re-create the Show Desktop Icon on Quick Launch Toolbar
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/190355

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

Read the instructions at the top
61. Right hand side
Restore/Add Show Desktop to Quick Launch Bar

 

[Dave Smith]

I used to have a desktop icon on my taskbar beside my Start button. It's
disappeared for some unknown reason. I've tried to put a new one there but
when I click on it I get the Desktop folder. I want the actual Desktop with
the background, icons, etc. That way I can switch between what ever programs
I am running and the Desktop with one click. Anyone with any idea on how to
access this?

Thank you.

Sounds like it is in your quick launch folder. Right click on the task
bar and take the check off of 'lock the taskbar'

Now near the start button, left side, you should see some markings on
the taskbar, like a stripe.
Left click on the stripe and pull it towards the system tray to the
right.
As you pull it back you will probably see show the show desktop icon.

Make sure to pull it straight or you will end up making your task bar
double high, or even on the right or left side of the monitor. When done
remember to right click on the taskbar and lock it again.

Remember this.
No matter where you are or what you are doing if you hold down the
'windows button'and the D key on the keyboard the exact same result
happens as when you used to click on that 'desktop' icon.
hope this made sense
wetink...........

 

[roscoe james]

I FINALLY figured it out. There is a shortcut at "C:/Documents and
Settings/your user name/Application Data/Microsoft/Internet Explorer/Quick
Launch/Show Desktop. Send a shortcut for this file to your desktop and drag
it to the taskbar. Instant switching between open Windows programs and the
desktop.

Thanks to everyone who replied.