How to Show My Computer on Desktop in Windows 11: A Simple Guide

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you might wonder where your trusty "This PC" icon has disappeared. Showing your computer on the desktop in Windows 11 is a simple process, and I’ll walk you through it step-by-step. You’ll have your icon back in no time, making it easier to access your files and drives.

How to Show My Computer on Desktop in Windows 11

Here’s what you’ll achieve: by following these simple steps, you’ll bring back the "This PC" icon to your Windows 11 desktop, allowing for quick access to your computer’s directories and settings.

Step 1: Right-click on Desktop

Right-click anywhere on your desktop to open a context menu.

This initial step is straightforward. Find a blank area on your desktop to avoid selecting any icons or files. A context menu will appear with various options.

Step 2: Select "Personalize"

From the context menu, select the "Personalize" option.

This option will take you directly to the Settings app, specifically the "Personalization" section, where you can tweak various visual elements of your Windows 11 experience.

Step 3: Click on "Themes"

In the Personalization window, click on the "Themes" option.

The "Themes" section lets you manage different themes and related desktop settings like background, colors, and sounds. Here, you will find the settings to show system icons.

Step 4: Click "Desktop icon settings"

Scroll down and click on "Desktop icon settings" under the "Related Settings" section.

This action opens a new window where you can choose which icons you want to display on your desktop.

Step 5: Check "Computer" Box

In the Desktop Icon Settings window, check the box next to "Computer."

By checking this box, you’re instructing Windows 11 to display the "This PC" icon on your desktop. Once done, click "Apply" and "OK."

Step 6: Close Settings

Close the Settings window to finish the process.

Once you apply the changes and click "OK," you can close out of the Settings window and return to your desktop to see the changes.

After following these steps, you’ll see the "This PC" icon back on your desktop. This will allow you to quickly access your drives, folders, and system settings without navigating through the Start menu or File Explorer.

Tips for Showing My Computer on Desktop in Windows 11

• Customize Icon Appearance: You can change the icon’s appearance by clicking "Change Icon" in the Desktop Icon Settings window.
• Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Access your desktop swiftly by pressing "Windows Key + D."
• Organize Icons: Right-click your desktop and select "View" to organize icons by name, size, or date.
• Create Shortcuts: Drag and drop frequently used folders or files to your desktop for quicker access.
• Backup Settings: Consider backing up your personalization settings using the built-in sync feature to keep consistency across devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I open the Personalization settings quickly?

You can right-click on the desktop and select "Personalize," or press "Windows Key + I" and navigate to "Personalization."

Can I add other system icons to the desktop?

Yes, in the Desktop Icon Settings window, you can also add icons like "Network," "Recycle Bin," and "Control Panel."

What if the "Computer" icon doesn’t appear after applying settings?

Try restarting your computer. If the icon still doesn’t show, make sure Windows is up-to-date and revisit the settings.

Can I remove the "This PC" icon later?

Yes, simply go back to the Desktop Icon Settings window and uncheck the "Computer" box, then click "Apply" and "OK."

How do I change the icon for "This PC"?

In the Desktop Icon Settings window, select "Computer" and then click "Change Icon" to select a new icon from the list or browse for one.

Summary

1. Right-click on Desktop
2. Select "Personalize"
3. Click on "Themes"
4. Click "Desktop icon settings"
5. Check "Computer" Box
6. Close Settings

Conclusion

That’s it! You now know how to show "My Computer" on the desktop in Windows 11. This simple tweak can significantly enhance your productivity by giving you quick access to your system files and settings. Make sure to explore other personalization settings to further customize your desktop to your liking.

For further reading, you might consider looking into other Windows 11 features that can streamline your workflow. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn. So, go ahead, personalize your Windows 11 desktop, and make it your own!