The single biggest annoyance of Windows XP (for me, at least) is the language bar. Seems like every time I reboot it’s back. Here’s how to fix it:

To close the Language bar (using Classic view in Control Panel):

1. Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Regional and Language Options.
2. On the Languages tab, under Text services and input languages, click Details.
3. Under Preferences, click Language Bar.
4. Deselect the Show the Language bar on the desktop check box.