How to Show the Server Name on the Taskbar (Windows Server 2016)

This method displays the server’s hostname directly on the taskbar using only built-in Windows features. No scripts, registry edits, or third-party tools required.

Requirements #

• Windows Server 2016
• Standard user permissions
• Taskbar not locked

---

Step-by-Step Instructions #

1. Right-click the taskbar
   • Select Toolbars
   • Click New Toolbar…
2. Enter the following path
   
   \\%COMPUTERNAME%
3. Then click Select Folder
4. Unlock the taskbar
   • Right-click the taskbar
   • Uncheck Lock the taskbar
5. Adjust toolbar appearance
   • Right-click the new toolbar
   • Uncheck Show Title
   • Uncheck Show Text
6. Position the toolbar
   • Drag the toolbar to the left or right as desired
   • Re-lock the taskbar when finished

---

Result #

The server name (hostname) will appear directly on the taskbar, for example:

DEMOSVR

This is especially useful in RDP, terminal server, and multi-server environments to prevent confusion between systems.

---

Notes & Limitations #

• The hostname is resolved when the toolbar is created
• If the server name changes, the toolbar must be recreated
• Works reliably in local and RDP sessions
• No impact on system performance