Hiding specific desktop icons in Windows 11 is really simple. You just need to access the Desktop Icon Settings and then select which icons you want to hide or show. This can help you keep your desktop looking clean and organized without deleting any important shortcuts.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Hide Specific Desktop Icons in Windows 11
If you want to clean up your desktop by hiding certain icons, follow these steps. This guide will show you how to access the right settings and make the changes you need.
Step 1: Right-Click on Your Desktop
Right-click on a blank space on your desktop to open a context menu.
When you right-click, a menu with various options will appear. This is your main gateway to accessing desktop settings.
Step 2: Select “Personalize”
In the context menu, click on “Personalize.”
This option takes you directly to the Personalization settings in Windows 11, where you’ll find options for customizing your desktop.
Step 3: Click on “Themes”
Within the Personalization settings, find and click on “Themes.”
Themes settings will allow you to manage a range of visual elements, including desktop icons.
Step 4: Go to “Desktop Icon Settings”
Scroll down and click on “Desktop icon settings.”
This will open a new window where you can control which standard icons appear on your desktop.
Step 5: Check or Uncheck Icons
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check or uncheck the boxes next to each icon to show or hide them.
Each checkbox corresponds to a specific icon like “Computer,” “Network,” or “Recycle Bin.” Simply uncheck the boxes for icons you want to hide.
After you complete these steps, the icons you chose to hide will disappear from your desktop. Your desktop will look less cluttered, but those icons will still be accessible through other means, like the Start Menu or file explorer.
Tips for Hiding Specific Desktop Icons in Windows 11
- Temporary Solution: If you’re not sure about hiding icons permanently, consider moving them to a folder on your desktop instead.
- Quick Access: Use the taskbar or Start Menu for easy access to frequently-used programs, reducing the need for desktop shortcuts.
- System Icons: Be careful when hiding system icons like “Recycle Bin,” as you might forget where to find them later.
- Desktop Cleaners: Use third-party software like Fences to manage and organize your desktop more effectively.
- Backup Icons: Before making significant changes, take a screenshot of your desktop layout to remember where everything was.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I restore hidden desktop icons?
To restore hidden icons, go back to Desktop Icon Settings and check the boxes next to the icons you want to see again.
Can I hide all desktop icons at once?
Yes, right-click on your desktop, hover over “View,” and then uncheck “Show desktop icons” to hide all icons.
Are hidden icons deleted?
No, they are just hidden from view. You can still access them through other means like the Start Menu.
Will hiding icons improve performance?
Hiding icons will not significantly impact performance but can make your desktop look less cluttered.
Can I hide third-party application icons?
Yes, you can move third-party application icons to a folder or another location on your computer.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click on your desktop.
- Select “Personalize.”
- Click on “Themes.”
- Go to “Desktop Icon Settings.”
- Check or uncheck icons.
Conclusion
Hiding specific desktop icons in Windows 11 is a quick and easy way to declutter your workspace, making it more efficient and visually appealing. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can selectively hide or show any icons you want, giving you full control over your desktop’s appearance.
For those who like to keep things tidy, this feature is an excellent way to minimize distractions and focus on what’s important. If you found this tutorial helpful, consider exploring other personalization options in Windows 11 to make your user experience even better.
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.