how to restore desktop icons windows 10
Restoring desktop icons in Windows 10 is a breeze if you know where to look. Essentially, it involves navigating to a specific settings menu and ensuring the right icons are selected. By following a few simple steps, you’ll have your desktop icons back in no time.
How to Restore Desktop Icons Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to restore your desktop icons in Windows 10. This process will help you get back those familiar icons like "This PC," "Recycle Bin," and others.
Step 1: Right-Click on Desktop
First, right-click anywhere on your desktop.
You’ll see a context menu pop up. This is your gateway to several important settings.
Step 2: Select ‘Personalize’
Next, from the context menu, click on ‘Personalize.’
This will open the Personalization settings window, offering various customization options.
Step 3: Click ‘Themes’
Third, in the Personalization settings, click on ‘Themes.’
Themes settings include options for adjusting desktop icons, among other things.
Step 4: Click ‘Desktop Icon Settings’
Fourth, within the Themes section, locate and click ‘Desktop icon settings.’
A new window will pop up, showing you options for desktop icons.
Step 5: Select Desired Icons
Lastly, check the boxes next to the icons you want to restore, then click ‘OK.’
Icons like "This PC," "Recycle Bin," and others will reappear on your desktop.
After following these steps, you should see your selected desktop icons restored and ready to use.
Tips for How to Restore Desktop Icons Windows 10
- Check Icon Visibility: Sometimes your icons are there but hidden. Right-click an empty spot on your desktop, go to ‘View,’ and ensure ‘Show desktop icons’ is checked.
- Customization: You can change the icon pictures by clicking ‘Change Icon’ in the Desktop Icon Settings window.
- Default Icons: If you accidentally delete a system icon like ‘This PC,’ you can restore it using these steps.
- Backup Settings: Consider saving your settings to ensure you don’t lose them again.
- Stay Updated: System updates may reset settings, so check your icons after major updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my desktop icons missing?
Your desktop icons might be hidden. Right-click the desktop, go to ‘View,’ and ensure ‘Show desktop icons’ is checked.
How do I add custom icons to my desktop?
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, click ‘Change Icon,’ then browse for an icon file you want to use.
Can I resize desktop icons?
Yes, right-click on the desktop, go to ‘View,’ and choose from ‘Small,’ ‘Medium,’ or ‘Large’ icons.
What if the icons still don’t appear?
If the icons still don’t appear, it might be due to a system error. Restart your computer or check for system updates.
How do I create new desktop shortcuts?
Right-click on the desktop, select ‘New,’ and then ‘Shortcut’ to create a new shortcut.
Summary
- Right-click on Desktop.
- Select ‘Personalize.’
- Click ‘Themes.’
- Click ‘Desktop Icon Settings.’
- Select Desired Icons.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Restoring desktop icons on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that takes just a few moments. Whether you’ve accidentally hidden your icons or they’re missing post-update, these steps should help you get things back in order. Remember, customization is key, so feel free to tweak which icons you want visible based on your needs.
If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to explore additional resources or contact technical support. Keeping your desktop organized can significantly improve your workflow, making it easier to find the programs and files you use most often. Now that you’re an expert on how to restore desktop icons in Windows 10, go ahead and make your desktop 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.