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.

Introduction

Modern Ubuntu now uses the DING (Desktop Icons NG) extension. This makes managing your desktop much easier. It provides a right-click menu and better support for desktop icons. Why do this? It helps you reach your favorite programs faster. What happens when done? You will have clickable icons right on your desktop background.

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

Ubuntu does not have a simple “drag and drop” button for every app. You usually need to find the “.desktop” file for the program. These files live in specific folders:

• /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, click the file once. 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

Once the file is on your desktop, you must enable it. Right-click the icon and select Allow Launching. This is a security feature of the GNOME desktop environment. It keeps your computer safe by making sure you trust the file. You may need to provide administrative confirmation or check your extension settings to complete this step.

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.