I was just wondering, is there any way in Windows XP/2000 to set a bounding box on the desktop area so that when windows are maximized, they don't take up all the available real estate? Obviously the standard task bar, by default, is configured to not only stay on top of all windows, but to also trim the desktop's "available area" so when windows are maximized, they don't overlap the taskbar.

I've noticed that some applications seem to pocess this ability, but I'm not sure if they're simply not fooling the OS into treating them like a taskbar. The reason I'd like to set up a bounding box for the maximized mode of all windows is so I can have some "desktop room" surrounding all maximized windows for the purpose of easily accessing my customized RighClick menu.

Any thoughts?