How to Add or Remove Default Desktop Icons in Windows 11

You can add or remove default desktop icons in Windows 11 by adjusting your desktop icon settings, allowing you to customize your desktop for better efficiency.

Desktop icons are quick links to essential system functions and folders, such as This PC, Recycle Bin, Network, and User’s Files. Windows 11 offers control over which of these pre-defined icons appear on your desktop. For instance, Windows 11 typically displays the Recycle Bin by default. You can easily add or remove this and other system icons through the Personalization settings.

This personalization helps you create a cleaner desktop or ensure the most relevant shortcuts are always at your fingertips.

• This PC: Lets you see your hard drives and other connected devices.
• Recycle Bin: Where deleted files go before you permanently remove them.
• Network: Shows other computers and devices on your network.
• User’s Files: A quick link to your personal folders like Documents or Pictures.

Ready to change them? Here’s how:

Open Desktop Icon Settings

First, you need to go to the right settings. Click the Start button (that’s the Windows logo, usually in the bottom-left corner). Then, click the Settings gear icon.

In the Settings window, find and click on Personalization. After that, select Themes.

Tip: You can also open Settings quickly by pressing the Windows key + I. Then, type “Themes” in the search box at the top and select “Themes & related settings.”

Choose Your Icons

Once you are in the Themes section, look for an option that says Desktop icon settings. Click on it.

A new window will open. It shows a list of common desktop icons like This PC, User’s Files, Network, and Recycle Bin. You will see checkboxes next to each one.

To add an icon to your desktop, check the box next to it. To remove an icon, uncheck the box.

Confirm Your Choices

After you have picked the icons you want, click the OK button at the bottom of the Desktop icon settings window.

Your desktop will update immediately to show only the icons you selected.

A Note About Themes

You might see a setting called “Allow themes to change desktop icons.” This is usually turned on by default.

This means that if you change your desktop theme later, Windows might automatically change your main desktop icons back to what the new theme prefers.

If you want your chosen icons to stay the way you set them, you might want to uncheck this box. This way, your icon setup won’t change when you switch themes.

Summary

Your desktop is your main control center for your computer. Making it personal with the icons and shortcuts you use most can make a big difference in how you use your computer every day. By spending a few minutes in these settings, you can create a workspace that is more efficient and enjoyable, and feels truly yours. Try out different icons and shortcuts to find what works best for you!