If you’re tired of opening your browser and typing in Gmail every time you need to check your email, there’s a quick and easy way to put a Gmail shortcut right on your Windows 10 desktop. This simple guide will show you how to create a Gmail shortcut that you can click to open your inbox immediately.
Here’s how to put a Gmail shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop. Follow these steps to create a convenient shortcut to access your Gmail inbox directly from your desktop.
Step 1: Open Gmail in your web browser
Open your preferred web browser and navigate to Gmail by typing "gmail.com" into the address bar and pressing Enter.
Make sure you’re signed in to your Gmail account. If not, you’ll need to enter your email and password before proceeding.
Step 2: Copy the Gmail URL
Once you’re in your Gmail inbox, click on the address bar to highlight the URL, then right-click and select "Copy".
This URL will be used to create the shortcut, so make sure you have it copied correctly.
Step 3: Right-click on your desktop
Go to your desktop, right-click on an empty space, and select "New" followed by "Shortcut".
This will open a window where you can enter the location of the item you want to create a shortcut for.
Step 4: Paste the Gmail URL
In the "Type the location of the item" field, right-click and select "Paste" to insert the copied Gmail URL, then click "Next".
This step links the shortcut directly to your Gmail inbox, ensuring a quick and easy access point.
Step 5: Name your shortcut
In the "Type a name for this shortcut" field, enter a name like "Gmail" and click "Finish".
Naming the shortcut makes it easy to identify among other icons on your desktop.
Once complete, you’ll have a Gmail shortcut on your desktop. Just double-click it to open your Gmail inbox directly in your default web browser.
Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when putting a Gmail shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop:
- Customize the Shortcut Icon: Right-click the shortcut, select "Properties," click "Change Icon," and choose an icon that suits Gmail.
- Make Sure Gmail is Your Default Email: Set Gmail as your default email handler in your browser settings for a smoother experience.
- Keep Your Browser Updated: Ensure your web browser is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
- Use Browser Extensions: Consider using browser extensions to enhance your Gmail experience further.
- Pin to Taskbar: For even quicker access, right-click the shortcut and select "Pin to Taskbar."
Can I use this method for other websites?
Yes, you can use the same steps to create shortcuts for any website by copying its URL and creating a desktop shortcut following the given steps.
Will this shortcut work offline?
No, the shortcut requires an active internet connection to access Gmail as it’s a web-based service.
Can I move the shortcut to a folder?
Absolutely, you can drag and drop the shortcut into any folder or location on your PC.
What if I have multiple Gmail accounts?
You can create multiple shortcuts, each with the URL for a different Gmail account. Rename them to avoid confusion.
Can I create a shortcut using a different web browser?
Yes, you can use any web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) to create the shortcut as long as you copy the correct URL.
- Open Gmail in your web browser.
- Copy the Gmail URL.
- Right-click on your desktop.
- Paste the Gmail URL.
- Name your shortcut.
Setting up a Gmail shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop is a straightforward way to streamline your email-checking routine. With a few simple steps, you can save time and enhance your productivity. This method works not just for Gmail but for any website, making it a versatile tool for both personal and professional use.
Don’t forget to explore additional customizations like changing the shortcut icon or pinning the shortcut to your taskbar for even quicker access. For those managing multiple Gmail accounts, consider creating individual shortcuts for each one. This small tweak can greatly enhance your daily workflow, ensuring you have easy access to your essential online tools.
If you found this guide helpful, check out our other tech tips and tutorials to keep your digital life running smoothly. Now, go ahead and create that Gmail shortcut on your desktop—your future self will thank you!
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.