Windows 10 – just like previous versions – has icons and the clock in a row at the bottom right. That’s called the system tray, and it can be tamed!
Many people do not realize that they have control over what is and what is not visible in the Windows 10 system tray. You will find icons of software and tools that (usually) run full time in the background. Or a programmer added a system tray icon to quickly launch a tool. At the same time, many software offer the option of customizing its system tray icon. This can vary from simply visible or invisible to adjusting the functionality. Think of a hard disk monitor that, for example, shows the temperature of a disk in such an icon, or the remaining capacity. Tweaking can then be done via the settings of the relevant program.
In short: if an installed piece of software offers such a system tray icon, it is certainly worthwhile to thoroughly go through the settings of that program.
Just slide!
You can also arrange some things in Windows 10 itself. For example, you can drag system tray icons to a different location on the bar. For example, list all your safety-related icons. Think of something like that Windows Security icon, along with – if you have one installed – an AV package plus possibly a VPN tool. You have everything neatly accessible and clearly arranged. If you don’t see any sign of life regarding your scanner, it is likely to be found in the hidden area of ​​the system toolbar. To show hidden items, click ^ to the left of the system tray. Then drag the desired icon to the visible part of the bar and release.
Usually it will remain here for years to come. Only if you install a lot of software that also add system tray icons, some scrolling may occur. That is something you will probably only encounter when setting up your system, so keep an eye on whether the icons do not order until you have installed all the tools and programs. Incidentally, of course, you can also move system tray icons that you do not or hardly use to the hidden part. Can also be quite useful sometimes.
Context menu
Finally, many system tray icons also provide a context menu; matter of clicking on it with the well-known right mouse button. In itself, these things may be obvious to a Windows tiger. But as mentioned, many Windows users do not know that there is indeed control over this part of the operating system!
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