It's not essential - it's just convenience !
They call it a Taskbar
In Windows XP, when you minimize a program it goes to the taskbar. As the number of programs, in the taskbar, increase the smaller the size of the boxes resembling the certain minimized programes decrease. If the number of programs in the taskbar exceed a certain limit, the taskbar automatically allows you to click on two arrows that are in the direction of down and up. As you click on each, you will see more of the programs you have minimized, such as a new taskbar.
True
The taskbar is used to display the programs that are currently in use and the active applications are the ones that you're using and is displayed on the taskbar.
taskbar
the taskbar is the bar which runs across the bottom of your screen. the bottom right is where icons for programs which are running usually appear.
the currnt time
You can drag the program from your programs folder window into the taskbar.simple! :) note:your taskbar should be on lock
Programs that are running will be in 'Task Manager' this can be accessed by right-clicking the taskbar and then selecting 'Tast Manager', programs that are not in use will not be running/seen until started.
contents button
Task manager accessed from right clicking the taskbar.
The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the screen with the start button, any programs open and the clock.