Windows 7: Gadgets - Add or Remove from Desktop

   Information

This will show you how to add or remove Gadgets from the Windows 7 Desktop. Gadgets are mini-programs on the desktop which offer information at a glance and provide easy access to frequently used tools.

   Note

Gadgets are no longer on Windows Sidebar like in Vista. Once a gadget is added to the desktop, you can move and leave it anywhere you like on the desktop.

The Gadgets and Shared Gadgets folders is located at:

For 64-bit Windows 7
C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Sidebar\Gadgets

and

C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Sidebar\Shared Gadgets


For 32-bit Windows 7
C:\Program Files\Windows Sidebar\Gadgets

and

C:\Program Files\Windows Sidebar\Shared Gadgets

   Warning

• Have gadgets enabled. Gadgets are enabled by default in Windows 7.
• Show Desktop Items needs to be checked in order to see the gadgets.

OPTION ONE

To Add a Desktop Gadget

1. Right click on a empty space on the desktop and click on Gadgets. (See screenshot below)

A) Go to step 3.

OR

2. Open the Control Panel (icons view), and click on the Desktop Gadgets icon.

3. Double click on a gadget to add it to the desktop. (See screenshots below)
NOTE: For more information about the gadgets click on the Show details button.

4. When done close the Gadget Gallery window.

OPTION TWO

To Remove a Desktop Gadget

1. Right click on the gadget and click on Close Gadget.

OR

2. Click on the white X in the upper right corner of the gadget. (See screenshot below)