If you are like me, then you too are dependent on the functionality of the Show Desktop icon. I typically work with a multitude of applications, and Show Desktop manages to bring order to my desktop instantaneously, letting me streamline a formidable amount of simultaneously opened windows. It's as much an integer part of my workfow as Alt+Tab, and I simply could not manage without it. This is why losing the icon manages to generate a decent amount of headaches. The fact of the matter is that Show Desktop is a unique presence on the Taskbar. Unlike all other icons in Windows Vista, managing Show Desktop is somewhat of a tricky business, long time Windows XP users know what I am talking about.

Well, in comparison to Windows XP, restoring Show Desktop in Windows Vista is less of a problem. All you have to do is know your way around the operating system. But not too much, since the new search functionality in Windows Vista will highlight a compelling result for Show Desktop. So the scenario is as follows: Show Desktop is lost and you are trying to find a solution. Open up an advanced search window, and on the Vista partition look for "Show Desktop". Just make sure to include non-indexed, hidden and system files. Alternatively, you could make your way to the Quick Launch folder in "C:UsersDefaultAppDataRoamingMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick Launch."

The 1 KB Show Desktop icon will be in the Quick Launch folder in all its splendor. What to do next? Well, it's rather simple and you have two ways of completing the task of restoring the icon to the Vista taskbar. First, you can copy the shortcut and navigate your way to C:Users and then to the folder with your user name followed by AppDataRoamingMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick Launch and paste the icon here. Sounds too complicated? Well, you will also be able to select the icon and drag and drop it on the Quick Launch area on the Vista taskbar.