There are some who like Desktop gadgets, and then there are some who do not. A few months back, Microsoft took off all the Gadgets which were being hosted by it, in its Windows Personalization Gallery, as they could allow Remote Code Execution which could in turn compromise your computer. As a result you find that Windows 8 does not include Gadgets or a Sidebar. As a result you find that Windows 8 does not include Gadgets or a Sidebar. Gadgets have been deprecated and outclassed by the new live tiles and apps.

8GadgetPack: Desktop Gadgets in Windows 8

8GadgetPack is a freeware that will add the Sidebar and the Gadgets to your Windows 8 desktop. It basically adds the original Windows gadget related files and registry settings to your Windows 8 installation along with some 27 popular gadgets.

Once installed, you will be able to place the sidebar on either sides of your screen, set it to always show on top and/or above all windows, enable or disable aero glass look and more. But you will not be able to place the gadgets on your desktop – they will have to be placed in the Sidebar only.

Some of the gadgets included are CPU Meter, Clock, Feed Headlines, Picture Puzzle, Slide Show, Weather, Calendar – all from Microsoft. It also includes some 3rd-party gadgets. As long as you trust the source of the gadgets you install, its fine. But it would nevertheless be a good idea to have them scanned with your antivirus software.

8GadgetPack worked just fine on my Windows 8 RTM x64.

If you are one , who really miss the desktop gadgets, maybe you want to download and check it out.