The usefulness of the new Windows Sidebar in Vista seems to be a matter of some debate. Some people like it, others hate it. If you fall into the latter camp there is an easy solution... just remove it.

Here's what to do if you want to remove the Windows Sidebar:

1 - Open the sidebar and right-click on it.

2 - Select "Properties".

3 - Uncheck the "Start Sidebar when Windows starts" options in the panel.

4 - Right-click on the icon, and choose "Exit" to close the sidebar

From now on, when Vista starts, you'll be spared the Sidebar.