How to extend Windows Explorer with a custom panel

Question

I would like to extend Windows Explorer with a custom bottom or right panel (like the image below).

From what I have been reading, I think I should start by implementing IShellView. Is this correct? Can anyone give me a few pointers how to do this in .net?

Thanks

Answer 1

You must implement IDockingWindow. Result will be look like this:

One of the scenario:

1) Create BHO with IObjectWithSite support.

2) Inside IObjectWithSite.SetSite call Site.QueryInterface(IServiceProvider, ServiceProvider)

3)Then call ServiceProvider.QueryService(SID_SShellBrowser, IDockingWindowFrame, DockingWindowFrame).

4) Then call DockingWindowFrame.AddToolbar with your object that implements IDockingWindow and IObjectWithSite.

5) Inside IObjectWithSite of your object call QueryInterface(IDockingWindowSite, DockingWindowSite)

Other detail you can find in the MSDN.