We have lost the application buttons from the taskbar on my wife’s computer. I have tried several things to get them back but have not been successful. I have her using “alt-tab” or just leaving the applications open but not full screen so they can be found with a mouse click, to switch between applications. Your suggestions would be appreciated.

This may be a challenge to answer, since I have not experienced this in the past. One thing I do when I’m troubleshooting errors or problems is to ask myself some questions, and this may help you. For example:

Do you remember what you were doing before this ever happened? Did you try to change the location of the taskbar? Do you have any third-party software that may have changed taskbar settings? Also, what operating system/computer are you currently using? Who used the computer last?

At any rate, most errors are fixed by restoring your settings to their defaults. I’m not sure if you have tried that yet, but if not… it’s certainly a good step in troubleshooting your taskbar woes.

If all else fails, there is a taskbar tool created by Kelly Theriot that cures all kinds of taskbar problems. You might find it helpful in fixing the problem you are currently having. I think the free version covers your taskbar error and repair your computer woes. I know you must be very frustrated.

You can download the toolkit here. She also has a section on her website called “Tweaks and Tips.” You might find it useful.

Let us know if you ever get this fixed and what steps you’ve taken. Our site visitors might find it useful too!

Good luck!