Adding a shortcut to all users’ desktops on Windows 10 is a great way to ensure that every user on a shared computer has access to essential applications or files. This task involves copying the shortcut to a specific folder that all user profiles on the system share. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it.
How to Add Shortcut to All Users Desktop on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps needed to place a shortcut on the desktop for all users on a Windows 10 machine. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that the shortcut appears on every user’s desktop, regardless of who’s logged in.
Step 1: Create the Shortcut
First, create the shortcut you want to distribute.
Right-click on the application or file you want to create a shortcut for, select "Create shortcut," and drag it to your desktop.
Step 2: Copy the Shortcut
Next, copy the shortcut you just created.
Right-click on the shortcut and select "Copy" from the context menu. This stores the shortcut in your clipboard, ready for the next step.
Step 3: Access the All Users Desktop Folder
Now, navigate to the All Users Desktop folder.
Open File Explorer and type C:UsersPublicDesktop into the address bar, then press Enter. This folder is shared among all users on the system.
Step 4: Paste the Shortcut
Paste the copied shortcut into the All Users Desktop folder.
Right-click within the folder and select "Paste" from the context menu. This places the shortcut into the shared desktop space.
Step 5: Verify the Shortcut
Finally, check if the shortcut is visible on all users’ desktops.
Log out and log into another user account to ensure the shortcut appears on their desktop as well.
When you’ve successfully completed these steps, the shortcut you added will be visible on the desktops of all user accounts on the computer.
Tips for Adding Shortcut to All Users Desktop on Windows 10
- Ensure Permissions Are Correct: Verify you have administrative privileges to access and modify the All Users Desktop folder.
- Consistent Naming: Use a clear, consistent naming convention for shortcuts to avoid confusion.
- Regular Updates: Periodically check and update the shortcuts to ensure they are still relevant and functional.
- Backup Shortcuts: Keep a backup of important shortcuts in case they get accidentally deleted.
- User Communication: Inform users about new shortcuts and their purposes to enhance usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t see the Public Desktop folder?
Make sure you have administrative rights and check your folder settings to ensure hidden items are visible.
Can I add shortcuts to specific user profiles instead?
Yes, you can navigate to individual user profile folders, but this method is quicker for adding shortcuts to all users.
Will the shortcut appear immediately for all users?
Yes, the shortcut will appear immediately once placed in the Public Desktop folder.
What if I need to remove the shortcut later?
Simply delete the shortcut from the Public Desktop folder to remove it from all users’ desktops.
Can I add shortcuts to network locations?
Yes, as long as the network location is accessible to all users, you can add such shortcuts in the same way.
Summary
- Create the shortcut.
- Copy the shortcut.
- Access the All Users Desktop folder.
- Paste the shortcut.
- Verify the shortcut.
Conclusion
Adding a shortcut to all users’ desktops on Windows 10 is an efficient way to ensure that important applications or files are easily accessible to everyone who uses the computer. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly and easily distribute a shortcut to all user profiles. Remember to keep your shortcuts relevant and up-to-date, and don’t forget to communicate any changes to users. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other Windows 10 management tips to further enhance your user experience.
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.