Hiding apps on your desktop in Windows 11 is easier than you might think. You’ll need to use a few simple techniques to either hide icons or even remove them from your view entirely. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cleaner, more organized desktop in no time.
How to Hide Apps on Desktop Windows 11
In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of hiding apps on your desktop in Windows 11. By following these steps, you’ll be able to manage your desktop appearance more effectively.
Step 1: Right-click on the Desktop
Right-click anywhere on your desktop to bring up a context menu.
When you right-click, a menu will pop up with various options related to your desktop. This menu is essential for customizing your desktop settings, including hiding icons.
Step 2: Select “View”
Click on “View” from the context menu.
The “View” option in the context menu provides different ways to display your desktop items. This is where you’ll find the option to hide your desktop icons.
Step 3: Uncheck “Show Desktop Icons”
Uncheck the “Show Desktop Icons” option.
By unchecking this option, you effectively hide all the icons on your desktop. Don’t worry; they’re not deleted. They’re just out of sight, making your desktop look clean and organized.
Step 4: Use File Explorer for Specific Apps
Open File Explorer and navigate to where your app shortcuts are stored, like the Desktop or Start Menu folders.
If you want to hide specific apps, you can move their shortcuts to another location using File Explorer. This removes them from the desktop without deleting them.
Step 5: Create a New Folder for Hidden Apps
Create a new folder and move app shortcuts into it.
Creating a new folder and moving app shortcuts into it can help you hide multiple apps while keeping them easily accessible. This way, your desktop remains uncluttered, and you can still access the apps when needed.
After completing these actions, your desktop will look cleaner, with fewer or no apps visible. This can help you focus better and keep your workspace organized.
Tips for How to Hide Apps on Desktop Windows 11
- Organize with Folders: Use folders to group and hide multiple apps at once.
- Desktop Cleanup Tool: Use Windows’ desktop cleanup tool for a quick clean.
- Taskbar Pinning: Pin frequently used apps to the taskbar for easy access without desktop icons.
- Virtual Desktops: Use virtual desktops to separate workspaces and reduce clutter.
- Regular Maintenance: Periodically review and clean up your desktop to keep it tidy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I unhide apps once they are hidden?
Right-click on your desktop, go to “View,” and check “Show Desktop Icons.”
Will hiding apps affect their performance?
No, hiding apps does not affect how they run.
Can I hide specific apps without hiding all icons?
Yes, move specific app shortcuts into a different folder.
What happens if I delete an app shortcut instead of hiding it?
Deleting a shortcut removes it from the desktop but does not uninstall the app.
Is there a limit to how many apps I can hide?
No, you can hide as many apps as you like using folders or other methods.
Summary
- Right-click on the Desktop
- Select “View”
- Uncheck “Show Desktop Icons”
- Use File Explorer for Specific Apps
- Create a New Folder for Hidden Apps
Conclusion
Hiding apps on desktop Windows 11 can be a game-changer in keeping your workspace organized and clutter-free. Whether you choose to hide all icons or just a few, these steps will help you achieve a cleaner look. Remember, you can always find and access your hidden apps when needed. So, don’t hesitate to clean up your desktop today. For further reading, you might explore more advanced Windows 11 customization options or even dive into productivity tips to optimize your overall workflow. Happy organizing!
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.