How to Add Desktop Icon in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

How to Add Desktop Icons in Windows 11

Adding desktop icons in Windows 11 is quite straightforward. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly add or restore icons like "This PC," "Recycle Bin," and others to your desktop. This process involves accessing settings and selecting the desired icons to display. Let’s dive into the details!

Step-by-Step Tutorial to Add Desktop Icons in Windows 11

This tutorial will guide you through the steps to add desktop icons in Windows 11, such as "This PC" and "Recycle Bin," using the system settings.

Step 1: Open Settings

First, click on the Start button and select "Settings."

To do this, you can either click the gear icon from the Start menu or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard. This will open the Settings menu where you’ll find various customization options for Windows 11.

Step 2: Navigate to Personalization

Next, in the Settings menu, click on "Personalization."

The Personalization section is where you can change your desktop background, colors, and other visual elements. We need to go here to access the desktop icon settings.

Step 3: Click on Themes

Within Personalization, locate and select "Themes."

The Themes option allows you to manage various theme-related settings, including desktop icons. You’ll use this section to find the specific settings for desktop icons.

Step 4: Access Desktop Icon Settings

Scroll down and click on "Desktop icon settings."

This option will be under the Related Settings section. Clicking it will open a new window where you can choose which system icons to display on your desktop.

Step 5: Select Desired Icons

In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the boxes for the icons you want to show, such as "Computer," "Recycle Bin," and others.

Ensure you select all the icons you need. Once you have made your selections, click "Apply" followed by "OK" to save your changes.

Step 6: Close the Settings Window

Finally, close the Settings window.

You can now return to your desktop and see the newly added icons. These icons will provide quick access to important system locations and functions.

After you complete these steps, the icons you selected will appear on your desktop. This makes it easier to access frequently used locations like "This PC" and "Recycle Bin."

Tips for Adding Desktop Icons in Windows 11

  • Customization is Key: Customize your icons to fit your needs. You can add or remove icons anytime by following the same steps.
  • Organize Your Desktop: Keep your desktop clean by arranging your icons in a way that makes sense for you.
  • Use Shortcuts: Create shortcuts for other applications or files by right-clicking on them and selecting "Create shortcut."
  • Change Icons: You can change the appearance of your desktop icons by clicking "Change Icon" in the Desktop Icon Settings window.
  • Stay Updated: Keep your Windows 11 system updated to ensure you have the latest features and security updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adding Desktop Icons in Windows 11

How do I remove desktop icons in Windows 11?

To remove desktop icons, go to the Desktop Icon Settings window, uncheck the icons you want to remove, and click "Apply" and "OK."

Can I add custom icons to my desktop?

Yes, you can add custom icons by creating shortcuts on your desktop and changing the icon image in the shortcut properties.

Why can’t I see the Desktop Icon Settings option?

Make sure you’re in the Personalization section of the Settings menu and have selected "Themes." If it still doesn’t appear, try updating your Windows 11 system.

What if the icons are not showing after I add them?

Try restarting your computer. If the icons still don’t appear, double-check your Desktop Icon Settings to ensure they are selected.

Can I restore default desktop icons?

Yes, in the Desktop Icon Settings window, there’s an option to restore default icons. This can be helpful if you’ve accidentally removed important icons.

Summary

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Personalization.
  3. Click on Themes.
  4. Access Desktop Icon Settings.
  5. Select Desired Icons.
  6. Close the Settings Window.

Conclusion

Adding desktop icons in Windows 11 is a simple but essential task that can enhance your productivity by providing quick access to important system features. Whether you want to restore classic icons like "This PC," or add new shortcuts, following the steps outlined in this article will help you do just that.

Remember, you can always customize your desktop further by changing the icons or arranging them to suit your workflow. If you encounter any issues, refer to the FAQs or consider seeking help from online forums or Microsoft’s support resources.

By mastering these simple steps, you make your Windows 11 experience more tailored to your needs. So go ahead, personalize your desktop, and enjoy the ease and convenience it brings to your daily tasks!