This entry might seem obvious, but the in File Explorer is the oldest sidebar in Windows 11. It lives permanently on the left side of every folder window.
While not a permanent fixture, the Snap Layouts panel and Snap Assist together create a transient but powerful side-based interface for arranging workspaces. Advanced users can use FancyZones (PowerToys) for a more permanent, customizable snapping sidebar.
explains why the sidebar was originally phased out in favor of desktop-hosted gadgets and eventually "Live Tiles" and "Widgets". Comparison Literature: 7 sidebar windows 11
It behaves exactly like a secondary taskbar section. You can click any icon to launch or switch to that app, drag icons from the overflow into the main taskbar and vice versa, and even see progress bars (e.g., file downloads) on the icons within the overflow. It supports right-click context menus too.
The rain slicked the glass of the skyscraper, but inside, Elias was staring at a different kind of pane. His ultrawide monitor was a battlefield of light, organized into seven vertical columns—the "Sidebar Seven." This entry might seem obvious, but the in
The board stays open until clicked away, making it semi-persistent. It does not pin to the desktop permanently (unlike old gadgets), but it can be opened on top of any app. You can rearrange widgets by dragging. The panel also respects system theme settings (light/dark mode).
Also from the right edge, this panel shows all system and app notifications grouped by app. At the top, a calendar view displays the current month. Notifications can be expanded, dismissed individually, or cleared all at once. The panel supports interactive notifications (e.g., reply directly to a message, accept a calendar invite). Advanced users can use FancyZones (PowerToys) for a
For users who miss the transparency and desktop-anchored feel of Windows 7 gadgets, third-party software is the most effective route. 8GadgetsPack: Restore the Windows Sidebar in Windows 11