Changing desktop icons in Windows 11 can give your computer a fresh look and help you organize your workspace better. To change desktop icons, you’ll need to access the Personalization settings, choose Desktop Icon Settings, and select the icons you want to change. This process is straightforward and allows you to customize the appearance of system icons like Recycle Bin, This PC, and others with just a few clicks.
How to Change Desktop Icons in Windows 11
Changing your desktop icons in Windows 11 is a simple process that lets you customize your workspace. Follow these steps to give your computer a personal touch.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
First, click the Start button and select the gear icon to open the Settings app.
The Settings app is your gateway to customizing various aspects of your Windows experience. It’s like the control center for your computer’s look and feel.
Step 2: Access Personalization
Step 2 is to click on ‘Personalization’ from the left-side menu.
The Personalization menu allows access to a wide range of customization options. Here, you can change themes, backgrounds, colors, and more, making it a one-stop shop for personalizing your PC.
Step 3: Open Themes
Step 3 is to click on the ‘Themes’ tab within the Personalization menu.
Themes include all the settings related to how your computer looks, including desktop backgrounds and sounds. It acts as a package of settings that can be applied simultaneously.
Step 4: Go to Desktop Icon Settings
Step 4 is to click on ‘Desktop Icon Settings’ under Related Settings.
Desktop Icon Settings is where you can specifically focus on changing the icons displayed on your desktop. This section is crucial for the customization of your main workspace.
Step 5: Select Icons to Change
Step 5 is to check the boxes for the icons you want to change, then click ‘Change Icon’.
After selecting, you’ll see a list of available icons to choose from, and you can even browse for custom icons saved on your computer. This step is where you can get creative with your selections.
Step 6: Apply and Close
Step 6 is to click ‘OK’ or ‘Apply’ to save your changes and close the window.
Once you apply the changes, you’ll immediately see the new icons on your desktop. If you’re not satisfied, you can easily go back and adjust your choices.
After completing these steps, your desktop will display the icons you selected. You’ll notice a fresh new look that reflects your personal style or organizational needs.
Tips for Changing Desktop Icons in Windows 11
- Make sure icons are in a .ico format for compatibility.
- Keep a backup of original icons in case you want to revert changes.
- Use online resources to find custom icons for a unique look.
- Regularly review your desktop to remove unnecessary icons and keep it tidy.
- If using a theme, ensure the icons match the overall theme style for a cohesive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I revert to the original icons?
You can return to the Desktop Icon Settings and click ‘Restore Default’ to revert to the original icons.
Can I use any image as an icon?
No, the image must be in .ico format. You can convert images to this format using various online tools.
Why aren’t my custom icons showing?
Ensure the path to your custom icon is correct and that the file is not moved or deleted.
Can I change icons for other applications?
Yes, you can right-click an application, select ‘Properties’, then click ‘Change Icon’ to customize non-system icons.
Do these changes affect all user accounts?
No, changes to desktop icons only apply to the current user account you’re logged into.
Summary
- Open Settings App.
- Access Personalization.
- Open Themes.
- Go to Desktop Icon Settings.
- Select icons to change.
- Apply and close.
Conclusion
Changing desktop icons in Windows 11 is a fantastic way to personalize your computer, making it more reflective of your style and preferences. Think of it as giving your PC a new outfit or a fresh coat of paint that can brighten up your day every time you log in. As you experiment with different icons, you might find that a simple change can make navigating your digital workspace a lot more enjoyable and efficient.
In addition, this customization isn’t just about looks—it can lead to a more organized and functional desktop. With fewer default icons cluttering your screen, you can prioritize what you need most, which is a step towards better productivity.
If you found this guide helpful and want to dive deeper, explore the other personalization features Windows 11 offers. From changing themes to customizing taskbars, there’s a world of options to make your computer experience uniquely yours. Keep experimenting and don’t hesitate to share your new desktop look with your peers—it might just inspire them to give their own desktops a makeover.
Remember, the way you change desktop icons is just the beginning of making Windows 11 your own. Happy customizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.