Adding Desktop Icons in Windows 10
Adding desktop icons in Windows 10 is a straightforward process. By following a few simple steps, you’ll have your favorite applications, files, and system shortcuts right on your desktop for quick and easy access. Let’s break it down so you can get those icons exactly where you want them.
Adding Desktop Icons in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to add desktop icons in Windows 10. By the end of these steps, you’ll be able to personalize your desktop with icons that make your workflow more efficient.
Step 1: Right-click on the Desktop
Right-click on an empty space on your desktop.
When you right-click, a context menu will appear. This menu offers several options related to desktop customization and organization.
Step 2: Select "Personalize"
From the context menu, choose "Personalize."
This will open the Settings window, specifically the Personalization section. Here, you can make a variety of changes to your desktop’s appearance.
Step 3: Click on "Themes"
In the left-hand sidebar of the Personalization window, click on "Themes."
The Themes section allows you to customize not just your desktop background, but also the overall look and feel of your Windows environment.
Step 4: Click on "Desktop icon settings"
Scroll down and find the "Desktop icon settings" link. Click on it.
This will open a new window that provides options for adding and removing standard desktop icons like This PC, Recycle Bin, and others.
Step 5: Check the Boxes for the Icons You Want
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the boxes for the icons you want to appear on your desktop.
You can choose from a list of standard icons, such as Computer, User’s Files, Network, Recycle Bin, and Control Panel.
Step 6: Click "OK"
After selecting your desired icons, click "OK."
This confirms your choices and will apply the changes to your desktop. You should see the selected icons appear immediately.
After completing these steps, your new desktop icons will appear on your Windows 10 desktop, providing quick access to essential tools and files.
Tips for Adding Desktop Icons in Windows 10
- Customize Further: You can always change the icon image by right-clicking the icon, selecting Properties, then Change Icon.
- Organize Icons: Use folders to group similar icons together and keep your desktop tidy.
- Use Shortcuts: Create shortcuts for frequently used files or applications by right-clicking the item and selecting "Create shortcut."
- Resizing Icons: Adjust icon size by right-clicking on the desktop, selecting View, and choosing either large, medium, or small icons.
- Backup Icons: To avoid losing your setup, take a screenshot of your desktop layout or use third-party software to save the icon positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add a new application icon to the desktop?
Right-click the application in the Start menu, hover over "More," and select "Open file location." Then, right-click the application shortcut, select "Send to," and choose "Desktop (create shortcut)."
Can I change the size of the desktop icons?
Yes, right-click on the desktop, go to "View," and select either large, medium, or small icons.
What if I can’t find the "Desktop icon settings"?
Make sure you’re in the Themes section of the Personalization settings. Scroll down if needed to find the "Desktop icon settings" link.
How do I remove an icon from the desktop?
Right-click the icon you want to remove and select "Delete." This will only remove the shortcut, not the actual application or file.
Can I add web page shortcuts to my desktop?
Yes, open the web page in your browser, drag the URL to your desktop, and it will create a shortcut to that page.
Summary
- Right-click on the Desktop
- Select "Personalize"
- Click on "Themes"
- Click on "Desktop icon settings"
- Check the Boxes for the Icons You Want
- Click "OK"
Conclusion
Adding desktop icons in Windows 10 is a quick and easy way to make your computer more user-friendly. With just a few clicks, you can have essential applications, files, and system shortcuts right at your fingertips. Whether you want to keep your desktop minimalistic or loaded with useful tools, Windows 10 gives you the flexibility to customize your setup.
If you’re looking for ways to further optimize your desktop, consider exploring additional settings in the Personalization section or using desktop organization tools. By taking the time to personalize your desktop, you can create a more efficient and enjoyable computing experience. So go ahead, give it a try, and make your desktop truly your own!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.