If you’ve ever wondered how to put Microsoft Store apps on your desktop in Windows 11, look no further. This guide will walk you through the steps to pin your favorite apps to your desktop, making them easily accessible. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy a more streamlined and efficient workflow in no time.
How to put Microsoft Store apps on desktop Windows 11
In the following steps, we will show you how to move your favorite apps from the Microsoft Store directly to your desktop in Windows 11. This will help you quickly access the apps you use most often. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Open the Microsoft Store
First, open the Microsoft Store app from your taskbar or start menu.
The Microsoft Store is where you’ll find all the apps you need. Look for the Store icon, which looks like a shopping bag with the Microsoft logo on it. Click on it, and the Store will open.
Step 2: Search for the App
Second, use the search bar at the top to find the app you want to pin to your desktop.
Type the name of the app you’re looking for into the search bar and hit Enter. This will bring up a list of apps that match your search. Click on the one you want.
Step 3: Download and Install the App
Third, if the app is not already installed, click “Get” or “Install” to download it.
Sometimes, you might find that the app you want isn’t installed yet. No worries. Just click the “Get” or “Install” button, and the app will start downloading. Once it’s done, it will install automatically.
Step 4: Open the Start Menu
Fourth, open the Start Menu by clicking the Start button, which is usually at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
The Start Menu is your gateway to all the apps installed on your system. Click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner to bring up the Start Menu.
Step 5: Find the App in the Start Menu
Fifth, locate the app in your Start Menu by scrolling or searching for it.
You can either scroll through the list of installed apps or use the search function within the Start Menu to find the app you’ve just installed.
Step 6: Drag the App to the Desktop
Sixth, click and drag the app icon from the Start Menu to your desktop.
Click on the app icon and hold down the left mouse button. Drag it to an empty spot on your desktop, then release the button. The app will now appear as a shortcut on your desktop.
Step 7: Launch the App from the Desktop
Finally, double-click the app icon on your desktop to launch it.
You should now see the app icon on your desktop. Simply double-click it, and the app will open.
After you complete these steps, the app will be easily accessible from your desktop. You won’t need to dig through your Start Menu or search for it every time you want to use it. Nice and simple, right?
Tips for putting Microsoft Store apps on desktop Windows 11
- Create Folders: If you have multiple apps, create folders on your desktop to keep things organized.
- Use Shortcuts: For frequently used apps, pin them to both the desktop and taskbar for quicker access.
- Regular Updates: Keep your apps updated to enjoy the latest features and security improvements.
- Customize Icons: You can change the icons of your desktop shortcuts to make them more visually appealing.
- Backup Your Desktop: Regularly back up your desktop to avoid losing your app shortcuts if something goes wrong with your system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put any app from the Microsoft Store on my desktop?
Yes, you can create a desktop shortcut for any app you download from the Microsoft Store.
What if the app doesn’t appear in my Start Menu?
If the app doesn’t appear in your Start Menu, try reinstalling it from the Microsoft Store.
Can I rename the desktop shortcuts?
Yes, you can right-click the shortcut, select “Rename,” and type in the new name.
Is it possible to pin apps directly to the taskbar?
Yes, right-click the app in the Start Menu and select “Pin to taskbar.”
Do desktop shortcuts affect system performance?
No, having shortcuts on your desktop doesn’t impact system performance.
Summary
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for the app.
- Download and install the app.
- Open the Start Menu.
- Find the app in the Start Menu.
- Drag the app to the desktop.
- Launch the app from the desktop.
Conclusion
Putting Microsoft Store apps on your desktop in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that enhances your productivity and saves you time. With just a few clicks, you can have all your favorite apps at your fingertips, ready to go whenever you need them.
Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, having easy access to your apps can make a world of difference. Remember to keep your desktop organized and updated, and your workflow will be smoother than ever. If you found this guide helpful, why not explore other tips and tricks to make the most out of your Windows 11 experience? Happy computing!
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.