Add the “This PC” Icon to Your Windows 11 Desktop
Looking for a faster way to access your files on Windows 11? Constantly digging through menus can be a bit of a pest. Adding the “This PC” icon directly to your desktop? It’s a real game changer. It’s straightforward, keeps everything within easy reach, and honestly, helps keep things tidy. Who wouldn’t want that?
To get this icon on your desktop, there’s a simple process that saves you time and spares you the frustration of hunting through endless folders. Here’s how it’s done.
Open Up Settings
First, head to the Settings app. Click the Start menu — or just press the Windows key — and find the gear icon labelled Settings. A handy shortcut? Press Windows + I for a quick access. It makes life much easier, especially if you’re familiar with Windows shortcuts already.
Go to Personalisation
Once you’re in, select Personalisation from the menu on the left. This is where the fun begins. It’s your hub for customising how your desktop looks, from backgrounds to themes and icons. Just a heads-up — with all the options available, it can get a bit overwhelming.
Find the Themes Settings
Scroll down and click on Themes. This section doesn’t just set the mood for your desktop; it also controls which icons appear. This is key to managing your desktop’s look and feel, so give it your attention.
Open Desktop Icon Settings
Look for a link that says “Desktop icon settings”. It might be tucked away, but clicking on it opens a window where you can choose which icons show up on your desktop. Think of it as taking control over what’s front and centre.
Add “This PC” to Your Desktop
In that window, find the checkbox next to “Computer”. Tick it, then click “Apply” and “OK”. Easy as that! The “This PC” icon should appear on your desktop straight away. It’s like magic — without the hassle!
Now, your desktop has that handy icon, making it a breeze to access your drives and folders. Consider it your personal control panel — neat, accessible, and ready to go.
Tips for a Tidy Desktop in Windows 11
Keeping everything organised can boost your productivity. First tip? Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates can tweak settings in subtle ways that improve your experience. And if the Settings app decides to be uncooperative, a quick restart often sorts things out.
If menus start to get on your nerves, try using the search bar in the Start menu to find “Desktop icon settings”. It’s quick and hassle-free. Plus, you can add other useful icons like “Recycle Bin” or favourite folders — just drag and drop onto your desktop. Easy as!
Don’t forget to click “Apply” before you close out — otherwise, your changes won’t save. Regularly checking and organising your icons helps keep your workspace efficient, especially after updates or new installs.
Common Questions About Desktop Icons
Can I remove the “This PC” icon later?
Absolutely. Just revisit the Desktop Icon Settings, uncheck “Computer”, hit “Apply” and “OK”. And just like that, it’s gone. You’ve got the flexibility to customise your desktop as you like.
What if “Desktop icon settings” isn’t showing up?
This can happen, and it’s a bit frustrating. First, double-check you’re in the right part of the Themes menu. If it’s still playing up, try accessing it via the Control Panel. Type control in the Run box (Windows + R), then go to Appearance and Personalisation > Personalisation > Change desktop icons. Not the slickest way, but it does the job.
Can I rename “This PC” to something else?
Definitely. Just right-click the icon and select “Rename”. You might want to personalise it — maybe label it something fun, or more straightforward if you’re sharing the PC around. Your call!
Will adding more icons slow down my PC?
Nope. Icons are just shortcuts and won’t drain resources. Feel free to add what you need without worry.
Is there a quick way to access desktop icon settings?
There isn’t a dedicated shortcut just for that, but pressing Windows + I to open Settings is about as quick as it gets. If you want instant access, you can create a desktop shortcut using ms-settings:themes. Right-click your desktop, choose Create Shortcut, and punch in that command. Easy and efficient.
Getting the “This PC” icon on your desktop is a simple way to personalise and streamline your workspace. It makes navigating your files quicker and keeps things looking neat. Don’t be afraid to explore more customisation options — the more you personalise, the smoother your day-to-day use will be. Sometimes, a small tweak can make a big difference.