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In programming terms a widget is basically an interfacing element with which a user interacts. For example, anything from a button to a scroll bar is called as widget in programming circles. However, the term widget is now used to describe a small program that performs an auxiliary task. Web widgets were first used in the Opera browser and perform a variety of tasks from setting reminders to downloading bit torrent files. With time, each browser has come up with its own version of widgets and operating systems like Linux and Mac OS X also support desktop programs known as widgets.
The latest version of Microsoft Windows (Windows Vista) also supports widgets, and users can download desktop widgets for a variety of purposes. Windows Vista widgets are designed to load in the Windows Sidebar and popular widgets include a PowerShell console widget that allows users to type PowerShell commands and an Outlook widget that displays upcoming appointments on the desktop. Contrary to popular belief, not all widgets are developed or released by Microsoft and anyone with basic programming skills can create a Windows widget.
Linux (and to a certain extent MAC OS) have supported widgets for a long time and it is only with introduction of the Microsoft Vista Sidebar that Microsoft has awoken to the reality of widgets. Widgets are a great way to increase productivity as they allow users to customize and organize their desktop. For example, a user can install a Microsoft Outlook widget that will display all upcoming appointments; even if the user does not access Outlook he/she will still be aware of all upcoming appointments. Similarly, programmers can execute basic commands by installing programmer friendly widgets without launching programs and scripts.
Widgets are superior to shortcuts as they are precompiled and are ‘running’ when the user logs on to his/her desktop. Instead of looking for a program and then executing it, a widget allows a user direct access to useful features and scripts. Widgets are also ideal for people that love to multi-task; a user can install multiple widgets on the desktop and then switch between widgets without cluttering the taskbar or opening too many programs.
Widgets are available for a variety of purposes and increasing productivity is not the only function served by widgets. Some widgets like the Simpson’s widget did nothing more than just count down to the movie’s release. Since, widgets can be written and developed by almost anyone, the number of widgets available online is expected to increase with time. Widgets also allow users to play videos without having to launch an external program and play popular games like Tetris.
If you are downloading Windows widgets, check your computer’s compatibility with the widget. Also make sure that the widget is supported by your operating system. If you are currently using Windows Vista then chances are that the widget will be supported by your operating system. However, read the ‘read me’ file to know about any additional system or software requirements.
Pros and cons of widgets
Although widgets are a great way to increase productivity and reduce program access time, there has been criticism of the fact that widgets hamper the performance of a system. The truth is that widgets only slow down the performance of computers that are running low on resources or running Windows Vista without the recommended hardware. If you are running Windows Vista on a computer that does not meet the recommended requirements, do not install too many widgets as it might slow down your performance considerably. However, if you are using Windows Vista on a new computer or a computer that meets all requirements, then widgets are a great way to organize your desktop, increase productivity and most of all have fun!

To download Windows Vista widgets visit www.gadgetsdownload.com

Article Source: http://www.depositarticles.com

webmaster webmaster is the author of this article on widgets. Find more information about microsofthere.

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