Even though you don't use it it is still active! Its security risk + it will improve the performance of your computer if you disable it!
 
 
Here is how too!
http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/3255/disable-sidebar-desktop-gadgets-on-windows-7/
 
 
Microsoft confim risk!
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/security/advisory/2719662
 
Right click on desktop and you can see for yourself it still active.

 
 
 
Here is what is should look like when you are done...
 

This applies only to Windows 7?

nothing new here

omtayslick


This applies only to Windows 7?

Windows 7 and Vista, apparently.

And also XP if you go into the MS link !

Cheers,
Jerry

Thanks Freddie H,

I didn't know about this one...    Seems everyday there is a new windows feature to turn off.. lol

You don't need to disable all windows gadgets. The only ones that are security risks are those that come from unverified or unknown sources. The gadgets from Microsoft should be fine. 
This is no different from running any library or plugin on your computer. A VST plugin from an untrusted source could equally be a security risk.

Huh... didn't even know that was there. Thanks Freddie for the warning and Noel for the clarification. All my "gadgets" seem to be the default Windows ones and one from Avast so it should fine... I hope.

Anything I can turn off is always appreciated by me.

Except the ladies, right? ;-)