If you’re looking to show your computer icon on your Windows 11 desktop, you’re in luck. It’s a quick and easy process! This guide will walk you through the steps to get your desktop looking just the way you want it. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to add the ‘This PC’ icon to your desktop.
How to Show My Computer on Desktop in Windows 11
These steps will help you find and display the ‘This PC’ icon on your Windows 11 desktop. It’s all about navigating through your personalization settings and checking a few boxes.
Step 1: Open Settings
Navigate to the Start menu and click on the “Settings” icon.
The Settings icon looks like a little gear. You can find it in the Start menu or by simply searching for “Settings” in the search bar.
Step 2: Go to Personalization
Within the Settings window, click on “Personalization.”
Personalization settings allow you to change the look and feel of your desktop. This is where you can add icons, change themes, and more.
Step 3: Click on Themes
In the left sidebar, find and click on “Themes.”
Themes control the overall appearance of your desktop, including the icons that are displayed. You’ll find a variety of customization options here.
Step 4: Go to Desktop Icon Settings
Under the Themes section, click on “Desktop icon settings.”
This is where you can choose which system icons appear on your desktop. It’s a small link, so don’t miss it!
Step 5: Check ‘Computer’ Box
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box for ‘Computer.’
Checking this box will add the ‘This PC’ icon to your desktop. You can also choose to add other system icons like ‘Recycle Bin’ or ‘Network’ here.
Step 6: Apply Changes
Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save your changes.
By clicking “Apply” and then “OK,” you’ll make sure that the ‘This PC’ icon appears on your desktop. If you don’t see it right away, try refreshing your desktop by right-clicking and selecting “Refresh.”
Once you’ve completed these steps, the ‘This PC’ icon will appear on your desktop. You can now easily access your files and system properties without having to dig through the Start menu or File Explorer.
Tips for Showing My Computer on Desktop in Windows 11
- Quick Access: Adding ‘This PC’ can save you time when you need to access files or system properties.
- Customization: You can add other useful icons like ‘Recycle Bin’ or ‘Control Panel’ during the same process.
- Themes: Changing your theme may affect which icons are displayed, so check your settings if anything disappears.
- Shortcuts: Create additional shortcuts for frequently used applications directly from the desktop.
- Refresh: If the icon doesn’t appear immediately, right-click on the desktop and select “Refresh.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove the ‘This PC’ icon from my desktop?
Go back to Desktop Icon Settings and uncheck the ‘Computer’ box, then click “Apply” and “OK.”
Can I rename the ‘This PC’ icon?
Yes, right-click the icon and select “Rename” to change its name.
What if I can’t find the Desktop Icon Settings?
Make sure you’re in the Themes section under Personalization. The link is usually at the bottom.
Will adding the ‘This PC’ icon slow down my computer?
No, adding a desktop icon does not affect your computer’s performance.
Can I add custom icons to my desktop?
Yes, right-click on the desktop, select “New,” and then “Shortcut” to add custom icons.
Summary
- Step 1: Open Settings.
- Step 2: Go to Personalization.
- Step 3: Click on Themes.
- Step 4: Go to Desktop Icon Settings.
- Step 5: Check ‘Computer’ Box.
- Step 6: Apply Changes.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, straightforward way to show your computer on your desktop in Windows 11. With just a few clicks, you can make your desktop more functional and tailored to your needs.
Whether you’re someone who likes having quick access to system properties or you just like the classic look of having ‘This PC’ on your desktop, these steps will help you get there.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other ways to customize your Windows 11 experience. You might find other icons or settings that make your computing life even easier. 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.