How to Add Desktop Icons in Ubuntu Linux
This guide explains how to add application icons to your desktop in Ubuntu Linux as of 2026.
To add desktop icons in Ubuntu, find the application’s .desktop file in /usr/share/applications or /var/lib/snapd/desktop/applications. Copy this file to your Desktop folder and then right-click the new icon and select “Allow Launching.
Introduction
Adding desktop icons in Ubuntu Linux lets you quickly open your favorite apps right from your desktop.
A typical Ubuntu desktop starts with a clean look, often showing only the Personal folder. Note that pinning apps to the dock is the preferred, more stable method for quick access in modern Ubuntu, but you can still add desktop icons if you prefer.
Copying .desktop files
To add desktop icons in Ubuntu, you’ll usually need to copy the program’s .desktop file from specific folders like /usr/share/applications.
- /usr/share/applications (for standard apps)
- /var/lib/snapd/desktop/applications (for Snap apps)
To add an icon, you can use the ‘Show Applications’ menu. You can often drag an icon directly to the desktop. If that does not work, use the DING extension’s “Add to Desktop” feature if it is available. Otherwise, open your Files or File Manager to manually copy the file from the folders listed above into your “Desktop” folder.
To copy the file, click it once, then right-click and choose Copy, or press Ctrl+C.
Go to your Home directory and open the Desktop folder.
Right-click in the folder and select Paste, or press Ctrl+V.
Allow Launching
After copying a file to your desktop in Ubuntu, you must right-click it and select ‘Allow Launching’ to make it runnable.
Your icon is now ready to use.
Conclusion
While pinning apps to the dock is the standard way to work in 2026, adding desktop icons is still possible. By using the DING extension and the “Allow Launching” security feature, you can keep your favorite tools exactly where you want them.
How to add desktop icon in Linux?
Press the Windows key and then browse to the Office program for which you want to create a desktop shortcut. In Windows 11, select All to find the app you want. Left-click the name of the program, and drag it onto your desktop. A shortcut for the program appears on your desktop.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
[…] will come with a single (Personal) folder icon on the desktop after installation. However, you can add additional icons on the desktop, although it’s not the easiest thing to […]