By default, the Windows taskbar appears at the bottom of the screen in Windows 10 and earlier versions. However, you might accidentally move the taskbar to the right or left side of the screen. This usually happens due to an unintended mouse drag or pressing the wrong keyboard shortcut. Since most users are familiar with the bottom position, they want to move the taskbar back to its default location.

Fortunately, it’s easy to restore the taskbar to its default position on Windows 10. Below are two ways to switch the taskbar from a vertical to a horizontal position (and vice versa).

Here’s how you can move the Windows 10 taskbar to the bottom using a mouse or keyboard.

How to Change the Taskbar Location in Windows 10

Method 1: Using Keyboard or Settings

This method is useful if your mouse isn’t working and you want to move the taskbar using the keyboard.

Open the Start menu and click the gear icon to open Settings.
Navigate to Personalization > Taskbar.
- Alternatively, right-click an empty space on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
Look for the Taskbar location on screen option.
Click the drop-down menu and select Bottom.

This will instantly restore the taskbar to its original bottom position.

Method 2: Dragging with the Mouse

First, make sure the Lock the taskbar setting is turned off.
Click and hold a blank space on the taskbar.
Drag the taskbar from the right or left edge to the bottom of the screen using the primary mouse button. (Refer to screenshot)
Release the mouse button, and the taskbar will snap into a horizontal position.

Tip: You can also move the taskbar to the top edge of the screen using the same method.

Tip: Lock the Taskbar to Prevent Accidental Moves

After changing the taskbar location on your desktop, you can lock it to prevent accidental movement or resizing.

To lock the taskbar in Windows 10, right-click an empty area on the taskbar and select Lock the taskbar. A check mark next to the option indicates that the taskbar is locked and cannot be moved.