Put your cursor on the top line and slide it down keeping your finger on the left mouse button.
This site may help:
http://www.dummies.com/computers/operating-systems/windows-xp-vista/how-to-change-windows-taskbar/
The same thing happened to me. Use the mouse to drag the vertical taskbar back to its bottom, horizontal position. Then right-click on the taskbar. Make sure “Lock the Taskbar” is checked.
Yesterday it worked
Today it is not working
Windows is like that
Chaos reigns within.
Reflect, repent, and reboot.
Order shall return.
.... From the good files of the Gnu Project. Author unknown.
I have seen an update that caused the “Use small icons on the taskbar” to uncheck, and that produced a result similar to what you described. I don’t remember where that setting is in XP, however. (I have been assimilated.)
MS is intentionally hamstringing Windows 7:
Microsoft Support Hotline:
MS: Hello! How can I assist you today (indian accent).
YOU: I am having a problem with Windows XP today.
MS: Thank you. We no longer support Windows XP.
YOU: Yes, but I bought it from you. Is there anything you can do to help.
MS: Thank you. I can list your problem relating to a newer version.
YOU: [relieved] Thanks!
MS: I see you are from Georgia... hmmm. Are you a [long pause] Braves fan??
YOU: No.
MS: Thank you. Please allow me to help with your problem.
YOU: OK, my screen is messed up.
MS: Pages rattling in the background. I see. Do you have your data backed up?
YOU: Yes, why??
MS: We must reinstall Windows.
YOU: Why do we have to reinstall windows??
MS: Well, you haven’t reinstalled in a long time, have you?
YOU: Of course not! Can’t you just fix it? I don’t to take a day off work to reinstall drivers!
MS: Doubtful. It is best to do a complete reinstall...
[Screaming will come later.]
How about doing a Restore?
Wow!!!! No snide remarks about still using XP. Very good FR. I also still use XP. I just can’t see throwing away all I know about Windows. :<))))))