Taskbar “always on top” function stops w

For both Windows ME and Windows NT operating systems:

When I set the Taskbar properties to Auto Hide & Always on Top, it initially functions but after opening windows explorer, or my computer, it stops functioning and is hidden by the explorer ormy computer window. Unchecking and rechecking Auto Hide or Always on top does not fix it. Only going into the Windows Safe works to reset it properly, but after a short while it happens again. Is there a permanent fix.