The Windows XP Desktop

Like previous versions of Windows, Windows XP uses a desktop for the standard interface. Think of the desktop as a workspace where you can access everything you need to operate your computer, such as system components, applications, the Internet, etc.

The desktop contains:
  • Start button: one of the most important tools you will use while working with Windows XP. The Start button allows you to open menus and start applications.

  • Taskbar: primarily used to switch between open windows and applications. Learn more about using the Taskbar in a later lesson.

  • Icons (or graphical pictures): represent applications, files, and other parts of the operating system. By default Windows XP provides you with one desktop icon, the Recycle Bin. Learn more about the Recycle Bin in a later lesson.

Your desktop's appearance may vary from the example shown below, especially if you bought a computer with XP preinstalled.

Windows XP desktop

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