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

Quick Way to Show the “This PC” Icon on Your Windows 11 Desktop

Deciding to add the “This PC” icon to your desktop is one of those no-brainers that just makes life easier. It’s like having a shortcut straight to your important files instead of digging through a maze of folders. Once that little icon is on your desktop, double-click it and File Explorer opens up, showing all your drives ready for action.

Adding “This PC” to Your Desktop

It’s not complicated, but you’ll need to tweak a few settings. Here’s the rundown: Windows likes to keep things customisable, and adding this icon is part of that. It helps you get to your files faster, especially if you juggle multiple folders all the time. Here’s how to do it.

Open Settings

First, open the Settings app. Click the Start button and find the gear-shaped Settings icon. Or, quicker still, press Windows key + I. That’ll take you straight to the control centre of customisations and tweaks!

Go to Personalisation

In Settings, select Personalisation. This section handles the visual aspects of Windows. You can change themes, backgrounds, and importantly, add icons to your desktop. It’s the place to make your Windows environment feel more like your own.

Look into Themes

Within Personalisation, click on Themes. Here, you can change the overall look of Windows — backgrounds and all that. And don’t forget, this is where you’ll find the link for desktop icon settings, which is what you need.

Open Desktop Icon Settings

Next, click on Desktop icon settings inside the Themes menu. If you can’t spot it easily, just type desktop icon settings into the Search box. Or, if you prefer the old-school way, go via Control Panel: Control Panel > Appearance and Personalisation > Personalisation > Themes > Desktop icon settings.

Make “This PC” Visible

In the Desktop Icon Settings window, find the checkbox labelled “Computer” or “This PC”. Tick it, then click OK. And just like that, the icon should appear on your desktop! No more hiding — everything you need will be right there.

Pro Tips to Upgrade Your Desktop Setup

Once you’ve added the “This PC” icon, consider arranging it alongside other often-used icons for quick access. If you’re serious about staying organised, make a habit of opening “This PC” regularly to manage your files. And for a speedy way into File Explorer, press:

Windows key + E

This shortcut opens File Explorer right where you want it. No more digging through folders — easy as. If the “This PC” icon ever disappears, just check the Desktop Icon Settings again and ensure it’s still enabled. Sometimes icons like to play hide and seek.

Additionally, creating shortcuts for your favourite folders and pinning them into “This PC” or on your desktop can save heaps of time. Right-click a folder, select “Create shortcut”, then slide that shortcut into “This PC” or onto your desktop for quick access.

Keeping Windows 11 up to date also helps prevent bugs that might interfere with your customised desktop icons, so it’s worth checking for updates regularly.

Common Questions About “This PC” on Windows 11

Why should I add “This PC” to the desktop?

It gives you instant access to File Explorer — no need to hunt through menus. One click and you’re in your drives and folders. Very handy!

Can I rename “This PC”?

Absolutely! Right-click it and select “Rename”. Then give it a personalised label that suits your style.

How do I remove “This PC” from the desktop?

No worries! Return to Desktop Icon Settings, uncheck the box next to “Computer” or “This PC,” then click OK. The icon will vanish — easy as.

Why isn’t “This PC” showing up after I added it?

Classic problem! Sometimes desktop icons hide themselves. Right-click on the desktop, hover over “View”, and make sure “Show desktop icons” is ticked. If that box isn’t checked, the icon remains hidden like a ghost.

Can I add more icons alongside “This PC”?

For sure! In Desktop Icon Settings, you can choose to display icons like “Control Panel”, “Network”, and the “Recycle Bin”. Check the boxes, and they’ll all appear on your desktop.

All in all, putting “This PC” on your desktop helps keep things straightforward and organised. It’s a small tweak that can save plenty of time in the long run. Feel free to explore your Windows 11 customisation options, tinker with different setups, and make your workspace work better for you. If you run into any issues, just revisit this guide or check the FAQ for troubleshooting tips. A setup that’s easy to navigate can really make a difference, so give it a go!

Now, go ahead and add “This PC” to your desktop — your future self will thank you. Hopefully, this little tip helps save a few frustrating minutes for someone out there.