Showing "This PC" on Your Desktop in Windows 11
Want to make accessing your files a breeze? You can easily show "This PC" on your desktop in Windows 11 by tweaking a few settings. This guide will walk you through the process, step by step, so you can get "This PC" on your desktop in no time.
How to Show "This PC" on the Desktop in Windows 11
In this section, we will cover the steps needed to display "This PC" icon on your desktop. By following these instructions, you’ll have quick access to your files, folders, and drives directly from your desktop.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
The Settings app is your one-stop shop for all Windows 11 configurations. You can also press Win + I for a quick shortcut.
Step 2: Go to Personalization
In the Settings window, select the "Personalization" option from the sidebar.
Personalization settings let you change how your desktop looks and feels. Here, you’ll find options to customize wallpapers, themes, and more.
Step 3: Select Themes
Within Personalization, click on the "Themes" tab.
Themes manage everything from colors to sounds, but for this task, we’re focusing on desktop icons.
Step 4: Open Desktop Icon Settings
Scroll down in the Themes section until you see "Desktop icon settings" and click it.
This will open a new window where you can manage which icons appear on your desktop.
Step 5: Check the "Computer" Box
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box next to "Computer."
By checking this box, you’re telling Windows that you want the "This PC" icon to appear on your desktop.
Step 6: Apply and OK
Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save your changes.
Your settings will now be updated, and you should see the "This PC" icon on your desktop.
After completing these steps, the "This PC" icon will appear on your desktop, giving you quick access to your main file directories and drives.
Tips for Showing "This PC" on the Desktop in Windows 11
- Shortcut to Settings: You can quickly open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
- Themes Access: If you’re having trouble finding Themes, use the search bar at the top of the Settings window.
- Manage Icons: You can also add or remove other icons from the Desktop Icon Settings window.
- Customization: Once "This PC" is on your desktop, you can right-click it to customize its properties.
- Backup: Consider backing up your settings before making changes, just in case you want to revert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename "This PC" after adding it to the desktop?
Yes, you can right-click the icon and select "Rename" to give it a personalized name.
What if "Desktop Icon Settings" is greyed out?
Make sure you have admin privileges on your PC. If it’s still greyed out, a system policy may be restricting changes.
Can I add other icons using the same method?
Absolutely! You can add Recycle Bin, User’s Files, Network, and Control Panel icons the same way.
How do I remove "This PC" from the desktop later?
Simply return to the Desktop Icon Settings window and uncheck the "Computer" box.
Will this affect other user accounts on my PC?
No, these changes only apply to your user account.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Personalization.
- Select Themes.
- Open Desktop Icon Settings.
- Check the "Computer" box.
- Apply and OK.
Conclusion
Showing "This PC" on your desktop in Windows 11 is a quick and easy way to streamline your workflow. With just a few clicks, you can have all your essential files and drives available right on your desktop. This small change can make navigating your computer much simpler and more efficient.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring more of Windows 11’s features to further customize your experience. Whether it’s changing your wallpaper, adjusting your taskbar settings, or exploring accessibility options, Windows 11 offers a range of personalizations to suit your needs.
Ready to make more tweaks? Don’t hesitate to dive into the Settings app and discover all the ways you can tailor your Windows 11 experience. Happy computing!
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.