If you’ve just upgraded to Windows 11 and are scratching your head wondering how to bring back the classic “This PC” icon to your desktop, you’re definitely not alone. This whole process can feel a bit quirky, especially since Windows decided to hide some icons by default now. But don’t worry, it’s relatively straightforward once you know where to look. Here’s a rundown of what worked for me, and maybe it’ll help you too.
How to Show This PC on Desktop in Windows 11
This part’s about getting the icon back so you can access your drives and folders faster. Windows 11 changed some UI stuff, and it’s not always obvious how to tweak things anymore. Basically, you’re messing with the Settings, specifically the personalization options.
Step 1: Right-click on the Desktop
Seriously, just right-click anywhere on the empty desktop space. A menu pops up, and you want to go from there. This menu’s your new best friend. Sometimes this menu can be a little finicky, especially if you’re on a touch screen or something, but for the most part, it works as expected.
Step 2: Select Personalize
In that menu, pick Personalize. That opens the overall Windows appearance settings. Here’s where Windows kind of wallows in complexity; the options are scattered, but we’re zooming in on icons.
Step 3: Open Themes Settings
In the Personalization window, find and click on Themes from the sidebar. I think this is kind of weird, but that’s where the desktop icons settings are tucked away now. Sometimes, this menu doesn’t highlight clearly, so keep your eyes peeled.
Step 4: Click on Desktop icon settings
Scroll down in the Themes settings page until you see a link called Desktop icon settings. It’s under the “Related Settings” area or similar. Clicking this link is the key part — it opens a dialog box with icon options.
Note: If you don’t see this, make sure you’re fully in the Themes settings, not just the main Personalization page. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Step 5: Check the box for Computer
In this Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box next to Computer, then click Apply and OK. That’s it. The “This PC” icon should pop up on your desktop immediately or after a quick refresh. If not, sometimes a quick restart or logging out and back in helps. Weird part? On some setups, it doesn’t appear after you check the box, and a reboot fixes it. No idea why, but hey, this is Windows.
Once you do that, the “This PC” icon will be there whenever you need it, just like in Windows 10 and before. Feels familiar, right? And now you can double-click to see your drives, folders, and system info faster than digging through menus.
Tips for Showing This PC on Desktop in Windows 11
- If you also want the Recycle Bin or other icons, just check the boxes in the same Desktop Icon Settings window. Easy enough.
- Keep it simple — only put on the icons you actually need. Overloading your desktop can make navigation messier.
- Even if you hide the icon, Windows + E opens File Explorer directly, which is faster sometimes.
- For frequently accessed folders, pin them to Quick Access in File Explorer — no need for icons cluttering your desktop.
- And don’t forget to keep Windows 11 up to date. Sometimes these features act funky if your OS version is a little behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I find the Desktop Icon Settings?
This bit’s odd, but it’s usually because you’re not fully in the Themes section of Settings. Double-check you’ve clicked on Themes from the Personalize menu, and then look for that Desktop icon settings link.
Can I remove “This PC” later?
Yeah, just revisit the same menu and uncheck Computer. It’s reversible, so no worries about messing things up for good.
Does adding “This PC” affect system performance?
Not at all. It’s just a shortcut icon, so it doesn’t impact performance or resource usage. Just a visual thing.
Can I rename the “This PC” icon?
Yep. It’s like renaming any desktop shortcut. Right-click, select Rename, and type whatever you want.
What if “This PC” doesn’t show after I check the box?
Here’s where a restart can sometimes work magic. Also, logging out and back in might do the trick. Windows can be weird about updating the desktop immediately after changes, so patience helps.
Summary
- Right-click on the Desktop.
- Select Personalize.
- Open Themes Settings.
- Click on Desktop Icon Settings.
- Check the Box for Computer.
Conclusion
Getting your “This PC” icon back in Windows 11 isn’t rocket science, but it’s definitely not as straightforward as it used to be. Still, once you get the hang of where the settings are — mainly in Themes — it’s a two-minute fix. Just a fleeting reminder of how Windows loves to hide the obvious sometimes. Anyway, having that icon around makes life easier when navigating your drives and system info. No more digging through menus — just click and go. Fingers crossed this helps someone save a few minutes or avoid a headache.