Making a Shortcut to a Website on Your Desktop in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11
Setting up a quick link to your favourite websites directly on your desktop can save you a lot of time. It’s like having a shortcut to your favourite hangouts — just a click away. Here’s a straightforward guide to creating those shortcuts using Microsoft Edge on Windows 11.
Getting Started with Microsoft Edge
First, open up Microsoft Edge. Click on it from your Start menu or taskbar. If it’s not pinned, press Windows + S, type Microsoft Edge, and press Enter. Make sure you’re connected to the internet — pretty essential for browsing!
Navigate to the Website
Once Edge is open, type the URL of the site you want to add as a shortcut into the address bar and hit Enter. Ensure the page loads fully before proceeding to avoid creating a shortcut to the wrong spot.
Access the Menu
Look at the top right corner of Edge — you’ll spot those three dots. Click on them for a menu of options. This is your toolbox for web management, and you’ll need it to create your shortcut. Alternatively, press Alt + F for a quick shortcut. Very handy!
Find More Tools
Hover over the “More tools” option in the dropdown. This opens a submenu with various options. Select this to move on to the next step — pinning the site to your taskbar or Start menu, which is part of creating your shortcut. Because why make it simple when you can make it complicated, right?
Pin the Website
From the “More tools” menu, pick “Pin to taskbar” or “Pin to Start,” depending on your preference. This makes the website easily accessible. After pinning, you can drag the icon from the taskbar or Start menu straight to your desktop for even quicker access.
To create a direct desktop shortcut:
- If you pinned the site to the Start menu, open the Start menu, find the shortcut, right-click it, and select Open file location. This opens File Explorer.
- Right-click the shortcut in File Explorer and choose Send to > Desktop (create shortcut). Voilà! You now have an icon on your desktop that takes you directly to the website. Just double-click it, and you’re away!
Managing Your Shortcuts
Once you’ve got your shortcuts set up, you might want to give them clear names so you can recognise them easily. A little organisation goes a long way! You can also customise their icons if you fancy a splash of colour or personality. Grouping related shortcuts helps keep your desktop tidy.
To change a shortcut icon: right-click the shortcut, select Properties, then go to the Shortcut tab and click on Change Icon…. Pick an icon that catches your eye — there are usually plenty in the list. Just remember to keep your browser updated for a smooth experience.
FAQs on Creating Shortcuts
Many ask if this method works for all websites. The answer is pretty much yes. If the shortcut doesn’t appear on your desktop, check your taskbar or Start menu — sometimes it’s hiding there. Drag it out to your desktop if you find it.
Want to add a website shortcut manually?
- You can create a shortcut directly from the website if that option is available. Or, dive into Settings at edge://settings/profiles, which may offer more straightforward options depending on your Edge version. Keep in mind, shortcuts need an internet connection to work — they won’t work offline.
Quick Summary
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Navigate to your chosen website.
- Click the menu icon (three dots) or press Alt + F.
- Select More tools.
- Pin the site and then drag the icon to your desktop to create a shortcut.
This simple trick can really help you get to your favourite sites faster, making your online life a whole lot easier. And if you want to make it even quicker: right-click on your desktop, choose New > Shortcut, enter the URL, give it a name, and you’re set. Just a small tweak to streamline your digital routine. If you run into any issues, revisiting these steps or a quick online search usually sorts out the bugs. Once it’s part of your routine, navigating the web will feel a whole lot more seamless.