How to Add ‘This PC’ to Your Desktop in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Put the “This PC” Icon on Your Windows 11 Desktop

If navigating through folders feels like a daily treasure hunt, adding the “This PC” icon to your desktop might just make your life easier. It’s not obvious by default that it’s missing, but once you know how to customise it, getting quick access to your drives becomes a breeze.

It’s pretty simple to bring back the “This PC” icon. Here’s a straightforward way to do it, so you can jump straight to your files without clicking through endless menus.

Open That Context Menu

First, right-click anywhere on your desktop’s empty space. This opens a menu where you can access display and personalised settings. Look for the “Personalise” option—click on it, and it’ll take you to the Settings app. It’s a bit odd that Microsoft hides this in the context menu, but that’s how it goes.

Head Into Personalisation

After selecting “Personalise”, you’ll land on the Windows Settings window. From there, just find your way to Personalisation options. Alternatively, press Windows + I to jump straight there without the extra clicking.

Locate the Themes Section

Within Personalisation, look to the sidebar on the left for “Themes”. Click that, and then find the link for “Desktop icon settings”. It might be tucked away, but it’s in there—sometimes feels like a bit of a scavenger hunt.

Access the Desktop Icon Settings

In the Themes menu, click on “Desktop icon settings”. If you can’t see it, you can also type desk.cpl into the Run box (Windows + R) and press Enter. This shortcut opens the icon settings directly, saving you some time.

Select “This PC”

In the Desktop Icon Settings window, find the checkbox for “Computer” or “This PC”. Tick it, then click “Apply”. Voilà— the icon will appear on your desktop, giving you quick access to all your drives and libraries.

Pro Tip: If the icon doesn’t show up immediately, press F5 to refresh the desktop. Still playing hard to get? Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), find Windows Explorer in the process list, and click “Restart”. Easy as.

Tips to Make Your Desktop Work Better for You

Before diving in, make sure your Windows 11 is fully up to date to avoid any quirks. While you’re in Desktop Icon Settings, you might also want to tick other icons like “Recycle Bin” or “Network”—a little customisation goes a long way. While you’re at it, explore the “Themes” section for wallpapers or colour schemes.

Watch your screen resolution too; tiny icons can be tricky. If you want to tweak things, hit “Apply” and “OK” to lock everything in place.

FAQs About the “This PC” Icon

Can I add other icons besides “This PC”?

Absolutely. The Desktop Icon Settings window helps you select multiple icons—like “Recycle Bin”, “Control Panel”, and more. Customise it so your desktop works just how you want.

What if I can’t find the “Desktop icon settings” option?

If it seems to be hiding, double-check under the “Themes” section. Sometimes it’s tucked away, but don’t worry—typing desk.cpl into the Run dialog will get you there instantly.

Will enabling “This PC” delete or interfere with my files?

Nope! Turning on the “This PC” icon just creates a shortcut on your desktop—it won’t move, delete, or alter your files in any way. It’s simply a handy link to your storage drives.

Can I remove “This PC” from my desktop later?

Definitely. Just go back to Desktop Icon Settings and uncheck the box. The icon will disappear without fuss.

Why “This PC” and not “My Computer”?

Good question! Microsoft changed it in recent versions to “This PC” to keep things fresh and modern. It’s just a branding update; it works the same way, so no worries there.

1. Right-click on your desktop and select “Personalise”.
2. Navigate to the “Themes” section.
3. Click on “Desktop icon settings”.
4. Tick the box for “Computer” or “This PC”.
5. Hit “Apply” and then “OK”.

Getting the “This PC” icon setup is a simple tweak that makes accessing your storage much quicker. Once you’ve got it sorted, customising Windows 11 becomes more about tailoring it to your style rather than just setting it up. Whether it’s wallpapers, icons, or organising your desktop, it’s all about creating a workspace that feels right for you.

Final tip: For easy access in future, save desk.cpl as a desktop shortcut. It’ll save a few clicks next time you need to tweak your icons!