If you’ve just upgraded to Windows 11 and are wondering how to bring back the classic “This PC” icon to your desktop, you’re in the right place. This simple guide will walk you through the steps needed to add the “This PC” icon back to your desktop, making it easy to access your files and system settings. In just a few minutes, you’ll have your familiar icon back where it belongs.
How to Show This PC on Desktop in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll cover the steps to display the “This PC” icon on your Windows 11 desktop. This will help you quickly access your computer’s folders, drives, and essential system features.
Step 1: Right-click on the Desktop
Right-click on any empty space on your desktop to open a context menu.
This menu provides quick access to various display settings and customization options. By starting here, you can easily get to the settings you need.
Step 2: Select Personalize
Click on “Personalize” from the dropdown menu.
The Personalization menu is where you can change many of the visual aspects of your Windows 11 interface, including desktop icons.
Step 3: Open Themes Settings
In the Personalization window, select “Themes” from the sidebar.
The Themes settings let you adjust the overall look of your Windows 11 system, including background images and colors.
Step 4: Click on Desktop Icon Settings
Scroll down and click on “Desktop icon settings” under the Related Settings section.
This link takes you directly to the options for adding or removing specific desktop icons like “This PC.”
Step 5: Check the Box for “Computer”
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box next to “Computer” and click “Apply,” then “OK.”
Checking this box will add the “This PC” icon to your desktop, making it accessible with a double-click.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the “This PC” icon will appear on your desktop. This makes it straightforward to navigate your files and access system settings, just like in the previous versions of Windows.
Tips for Showing This PC on Desktop in Windows 11
- If you want other icons, like the Recycle Bin or Control Panel, you can add them in the same Desktop Icon Settings window.
- Keep your desktop organized by only adding icons you frequently use.
- Use shortcuts like Windows + E to open File Explorer even if the icon isn’t on your desktop.
- Customize your “This PC” view by pinning frequently accessed folders to Quick Access.
- Regularly update Windows 11 to ensure all features, including desktop customization, work smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I find the Desktop Icon Settings?
Make sure you’re in the Themes section of the Personalization settings. This is where the Desktop Icon Settings link is located.
Can I remove “This PC” from the desktop later?
Absolutely! Just revisit the Desktop Icon Settings and uncheck the “Computer” option.
Does adding “This PC” affect system performance?
No, adding the icon doesn’t impact performance. It’s merely a shortcut to existing features.
Can I rename the “This PC” icon?
Yes, right-click the icon, select “Rename,” and type in your preferred name.
What if “This PC” icon doesn’t appear after I check the box?
Try restarting your computer. Sometimes changes take effect after a reboot.
Summary
- Right-click on the Desktop.
- Select Personalize.
- Open Themes Settings.
- Click on Desktop Icon Settings.
- Check the Box for “Computer.”
Conclusion
Getting your “This PC” icon back on Windows 11 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about convenience. As you’ve seen, it’s a straightforward process requiring just a few clicks. Whether you’re an old-school Windows user or new to the game, having the “This PC” icon readily available can make your digital life a little bit simpler. It’s like having a trusty old toolbox within arm’s reach, filled with all the essentials you need to keep things running smoothly.
In the future, if you find yourself tweaking other aspects of your desktop environment, remember these steps. They can serve as a gateway to exploring countless other customization options Windows 11 offers. For further reading, consider exploring how to customize your taskbar or optimize system performance. Each little tweak brings you closer to a workspace that’s uniquely yours. So go ahead, make those changes and enjoy the seamless experience that comes with having the right tools right where you need them. 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.