Where have my Desktop icons gone?

If you suddenly notice all your desktop icons have gone, this guide will help get them back. 

Windows: How to enable Desktop icons

If you can’t see any icons at all, they may have been hidden. 

1. Right-click on an empty space on your desktop.
2. Select View from the context menu.
3. Click Show desktop icons (ensure it is checked).

Windows: How to restore system icons (This PC, Recycle Bin, Network)

If certain icons are missing from your desktop, these steps will show how to reset the defaults. 

1. Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
2. In the left panel, click Themes.
3. Scroll down and click Desktop icon settings under Related settings.
4. Check the icons you want to display (e.g., Computer, Recycle Bin, Control Panel).
5. Click Apply and OK.

Windows: Restore personal files and shortcuts to the Desktop

OneDrive can back up your Desktop, Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos folders to ensure they’re available across all your devices. 

If your folder backup location is corrupted, your desktop might be showing the wrong location. 

1. Open File Explorer and expand your OneDrive folders.

2. Right-click the Desktop folder and select Properties.

3. Select the Location tab.

   Tip

   If you don’t see Location, you’re viewing the “wrong” Desktop folder, such as one not in OneDrive or the version belonging to your work/school account. Look for Desktop in other folders.

4. Select Move.

5. Navigate to the folder that contains the Desktop icons you want, choose Select Folder, and then Apply.

   Tip

   When asked if you want to move files from the old to the new, select Yes to ensure content is available.

Repeat this with Documents, Pictures, and other folders if necessary. 

See also

Back up your folders with OneDrive

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