How to Show Desktop Icons on Windows 10 | Desktop Icons on Windows 10 | Understanding the Desktop Icons in Windows 10 | Desktop icons in Windows 10 | Desktop Icons Not Show on Windows 10
Table of Contents
Introduction
Windows 10 is a versatile operating system that offers various customization options to its users. One such feature is the ability to display desktop icons for easy access to files, applications, and folders. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of showing desktop icons on Windows 10 allowing you to personalize your desktop for a smoother user experience.
Understanding the Desktop Icons in Windows 10
Desktop icons act as shortcuts to frequently accessed files, folders, and applications, offering users a quick way to launch them without navigating through multiple directories. By default, Windows 10 displays a few standard icons like “This PC,” “Recycle Bin,” and “Control Panel” on the desktop. However, you can customize the icons and add your preferred shortcuts for enhanced productivity.
How to Show Desktop Icons on Windows 10
Method 1: Via Right-clicking on the Desktop
The easiest way to show desktop icons is by right-clicking on any empty space on the desktop and selecting “Personalize” from the context menu. Next, click on the “Themes“ option from the left sidebar, and then click on “Desktop icon settings.” A new window will appear, where you can choose which icons you want to display on your desktop. Check the desired icons and click “Apply” followed by “OK” to save the changes.
Method 2: Through Settings
Another method to show desktop icons is by accessing the Settings app. Press the “Windows + I” keys simultaneously to open the Settings window. From there, click on “Personalization,” and then on “Themes” from the left panel. Find “Related Settings” on the right side of the window and click on “Desktop icon settings.” Select the icons you want to display and click “Apply” and then “OK” to save your preferences.
Method 3: Using the Control Panel
For users who prefer the classic Control Panel interface, you can follow this method. Look for “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar and open it. Change the “View by” option to “Large icons” or “Small icons” and locate “Personalization.” Click on it and select “Change desktop icons” from the left sidebar. Choose the icons you want to show and apply the changes by clicking “OK.”
Customizing the Desktop Icons
Changing Icon Size
If you wish to resize the desktop icons, follow these steps. Right-click on any empty space on the desktop and choose “View.” You can then select from options like “Large icons,” “Medium icons,” or “Small icons” based on your preference.
Sorting Icons Automatically
Windows 10 allows you to sort desktop icons automatically. Right-click on an empty area of the desktop, hover over “Sort by,” and you can choose to sort icons by name, size, item type, or date modified.
Hiding Specific Icons
If you want to hide specific icons temporarily, right-click on the desktop, go to “View,” and uncheck “Show desktop icons.” This will hide all the icons, and you can re-enable them by checking the same option.
Troubleshooting Common Issues Desktop Icons on Windows 10
Missing Desktop Icons
In case you can’t see any desktop icons, ensure that the “Show desktop icons” option is enabled. Refer to the methods mentioned earlier to customize your desktop icons according to your preference.
Icons Not Responding
If desktop icons are not responding when clicked, you may need to restart the Windows Explorer process. Right-click on the taskbar, choose “Task Manager,” locate “Windows Explorer” under the “Processes” tab, right-click it, and select “Restart.”
Emphasizing Desktop Organization
A clutter-free desktop can enhance productivity and reduce distractions. Consider organizing your icons into folders, grouping related shortcuts together, and removing any unnecessary icons.
Conclusion
Customizing and displaying desktop icons on Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to improve your workflow and access frequently used files with ease. Whether you prefer the modern Settings app or the classic Control Panel, Windows 10 offers multiple ways to tailor your desktop to your liking.
ALSO READ:
How To Change Theme In Windows 10 Easy Steps
8 Ways To Fix “Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working” In Windows 11/10/8/7
FAQs About Desktop Icons on Windows 10
Can I add custom icons to my desktop in Windows 10?
Yes, you can add custom icons to your desktop in Windows 10. Simply create a shortcut to the desired file or application, and then right-click on it, choose “Properties,” and click on “Change Icon” to select a custom icon.
Can I restore the default desktop icons in Windows 10?
Yes, you can restore the default desktop icons. Open the Settings app, go to “Personalization,” click on “Themes,” and then click “Desktop icon settings.” Finally, click on “Restore Default” to bring back the original icons.
Is it possible to hide all desktop icons without deleting them?
Yes, you can hide all desktop icons without deleting them. Right-click on the desktop, go to “View,” and uncheck “Show desktop icons.” This will hide all the icons, and they can be re-enabled by checking the same option.
What do I do if my desktop icons are not responding?
If your desktop icons are not responding when clicked, try restarting the Windows Explorer process. Right-click on the taskbar, choose “Task Manager,” locate “Windows Explorer” under the “Processes” tab, right-click it, and select “Restart.”
Will changing the icon size affect the original file’s appearance?
No, changing the icon size on the desktop will only affect how the icons appear on your screen. It won’t alter the appearance of the original files or applications themselves.