Speed Launch

Windows already allows a great deal of basic customization options for your desktop, as well as the ways you launch programs, and websites. Needless to say that it can all be greatly enhanced with specialized applications like Speed Launch, allowing you to create a custom launchbar for quick access to offline, and online locations.

Launcher visibility toggle via hotkeys

The application doesn’t take much of your time with the installation process, letting you take advantage of all its features before you realize. However, you need to make sure that .NET Framework is installed on the target PC, because it’s a required component for proper functionality.
A specific combination of keys is used to bring up the launch bar. You’re alerted if the combination is already in use, so you can check what program uses it, so you can change it. Sadly, it can’t be changed from the application’s main window, or set of options, forcing you to work your way around.

Add online, and offline locations

An additional drop spot is placed on your desktop. It can also be used to bring up the launch bar, in case you just don’t want, or can’t change the specific hotkey. Moreover, you can simply drop shortcuts, or other files to quickly add them to the list.
There are several preset locations put at your disposal. Most of them are online, but you can also add files, or programs already on your computer. On the other hand, the built-in presets allow you to quickly look up queries of interest online, on various popular engines, and websites.
The drop area can be hidden, or made bigger, but it’s advisable to solve the hotkey issue before hiding it. You can edit existing items without having to delete, and add again. What’s more, a specific launcher slot can be fitted with more web pages, letting you start online work at the press of a button.

To end with

Bottom line is that it’s best to have all locations of interest at your fingertips, so you don’t end up wasting time navigating through complex folders at startup. Speed Launch is a neat desktop assistant, greatly enhancing the way you run programs, video games, or go online to look for different bits of info, or access favorite websites.