To enable the My Computer icon in Windows 10, you’ll need to access the Desktop Icon Settings through the settings menu. Once there, you can simply check the box to have the My Computer (also known as This PC) icon appear on your desktop. This straightforward task can be completed in just a few steps.
Enabling My Computer Icon in Windows 10
Following these steps will guide you through enabling the My Computer icon on your desktop, making it easier to access your files and system information.
Step 1: Open Settings
Navigate to the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
This gear icon is usually located on the left side of the Start menu. Clicking it will open a window where you can manage various settings on your computer.
Step 2: Go to Personalization
In the Settings window, select "Personalization" to access appearance-related settings.
Personalization is where you’ll find options to customize your desktop, including the ability to show or hide various icons.
Step 3: Click on Themes
Within the Personalization menu, click on "Themes" from the list on the left.
The Themes section allows you to customize the overall look and feel of your desktop, including setting up your desktop icons.
Step 4: Open Desktop Icon Settings
Scroll down in the Themes section and click on "Desktop icon settings" under Related Settings.
This will open a new window specifically for managing which icons appear on your desktop.
Step 5: Check Computer Icon Box
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box next to "Computer" and click "Apply," then "OK."
Checking "Computer" will enable the My Computer icon on your desktop, making it easily accessible.
Once you complete these steps, the My Computer icon will appear on your desktop. You’ll be able to quickly access your drives, folders, and system properties directly from this icon.
Tips for Enabling My Computer Icon in Windows 10
- Customize Further: In Desktop Icon Settings, you can also add or remove other icons like Recycle Bin, Control Panel, and User Files.
- Icon Size: Right-click on the desktop and go to View to change the size of your icons if they’re too big or too small.
- Rearrange Icons: Click and drag your desktop icons to rearrange them in an order that suits you best.
- Hide/Show Icons: Use the View option by right-clicking on the desktop to temporarily hide all icons if you prefer a clean look.
- Quick Access: Pin "This PC" to your taskbar or Start menu for even quicker access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see the My Computer icon on my desktop?
You might not have enabled it yet. Follow the steps outlined above to make the My Computer icon visible on your desktop.
Can I rename the My Computer icon?
Yes, you can right-click the My Computer icon and select "Rename" to give it a different name.
How do I change the icon image for My Computer?
In the Desktop Icon Settings, select the My Computer icon and click "Change Icon" to choose a different image.
What if Desktop Icon Settings is missing?
Make sure you’re in the correct section of the Settings menu. If it’s still missing, there might be a system error that needs troubleshooting.
Can I add My Computer to the Start menu instead?
Yes, you can right-click on This PC in File Explorer and select "Pin to Start" to add it to your Start menu.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Personalization.
- Click on Themes.
- Open Desktop Icon Settings.
- Check Computer icon box.
Conclusion
Enabling the My Computer icon in Windows 10 is an easy task that can significantly improve your access to important system features. Following the outlined steps ensures that you can quickly get the My Computer icon on your desktop, providing a shortcut to your drives and system settings. Remember, you can customize your desktop further by adding other icons and changing their sizes or positions.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other ways to personalize your Windows 10 experience. Feel free to check out our other articles on optimizing your computer settings for a more efficient and enjoyable 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.