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Windows Desktop Icon: How to Make Default System Icons Visible

Posted on 12/04/202216/08/2026 Imoh Etuk By Imoh Etuk No Comments on Windows Desktop Icon: How to Make Default System Icons Visible
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Windows Desktop Icon: How to Make Default System Icons Visible

In previous Windows Operating System Editions such as Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and so on, it was somewhat very easy to bring up the default system icons immediately after system setup is completed to the Desktop environment. In this article, we shall discuss Windows Desktop Icon: How to make Default System Icons Visible. Please see

The default system icons can still be displayed on the Windows 11 Home Screen, however, there are some tricks around it and this post will show you how to go about it.

Even though the Windows 11 Home Screen only displays the Recycle Bin icon, it is still possible to restore all of the legacy system icons to the desktop, including Computer, User’s Files, Network, and Control Panel, even though the Settings app has taken its place.

All you have to do is know where to locate them. If you prefer a more traditional look, Windows 11 still includes the “Home Screen Shortcut Settings” feature, which allows you to select the Shortcut you want to see on your Home Screen and change their icons to whatever you want.

This feature provides an easy way to personalize your desktop and create a customized and familiar experience on Windows 11. So, go ahead and make your desktop truly yours by choosing the icons that resonate with you and suit your style.

How to Make Default Desktop Icons Visible in Windows 11

Follow these steps to restore the Home Screen Shortcut to the desktop: Open Settings

Navigate to Settings
Settings App

Select Personalization > Themes > Click on Desktop Icon Settings under the “Related settings” section

Open desktop icon settings
Desktop Icons Settings

Check the icons you want to appear on the Home Screen. Here we’re selecting:

  1. Computer.
  2. User’s Files.
  3. Network.
Note: Recycle Bin (selected by default)
Add Icons
Icons to Add to Desktop Environment

Click on "Apply" and "Okay" to effect the changes as shown on the screenshot below:

You have added icons
Desktop Icons Added to the Desktop Environment

Read about the new Windows 11 encryption features and security enhancements will help protect hybrid work . Also, learn about the Smart App Control and how to enable Phishing Protection: Windows 11 New Security Features and how to Upgrade Windows 11 Pro to Enterprise and vice Versa.

I hope you found this blog post on “Windows Desktop Icon: How to make Default System Icons Visible” helpful. If you have any questions, please let me know in the comment session.

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Windows Tags:desktop, desktopshortcut, Windows 10, Windows 11

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