The thread discusses difficulties in creating a desktop shortcut for Google without using Google Chrome and issues with accessing the Google toolbar in Internet Explorer. The first poster seeks guidance on obtaining an active Google shortcut and toolbar access. Respondents suggest using IE's search settings to set Google as the default and warn against creating direct desktop shortcuts due to potential issues, emphasizing caution with such configurations. Overall, the advice focuses on configuring browser settings rather than creating external shortcuts, with a cautious stance on direct desktop shortcuts for Google.