Quick tip: Restore system desktop icons on Windows 10 and 11 PCs

Vanilla Windows 10 and 11 PCs display desktop icons by default on first run after installation. The manufacturer may place custom icons on the desktop, but if you install one of these operating systems from scratch, you'll end up with a default set of system icons.

The recycle bin icon appears on the desktop, allowing users to access its functionality. You may also see other icons on your desktop, such as This PC. Windows 10 and 11 include the ability to place additional system icons on the desktop, but the feature is somewhat hidden and a holdover from older versions of the operating system. It is possible that Microsoft will remove the desktop icon settings preference window in future versions of the Windows operating system.

In short: You can use the system menu to add icons for Computer, User Directory, Control Panel, and Network to the desktop.

These options may be convenient in certain situations, such as when the Recycle Bin icon suddenly no longer displays, or when you want to access user folders, classic Control Panel, or network management applications from the desktop .

Here's how to do it on Windows 10 and 11

1. Select Start, then Settings, or use the keyboard shortcut Windows-I.
2. Go to Personalization > Themes.
   1. Windows 10: Activate "Desktop Icon Settings" under "Related Settings" in the right sidebar.
   2. Windows 11: Activate "Desktop Icon Settings" on the page under "Related Settings".

The pop-up window displays the option to add or remove icons from the desktop. It has the same options on Windows 10 and 11.

You can also change the icon style by clicking on the "Change Icon" option. There are also options to restore default settings and prevent the theme from changing desktop icons.

Some icon links are accessible elsewhere. For example, Network and This PC can be found in File Explorer's sidebar.

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