To fix the issue, the first step is to log on to another user account that has administrator rights. To do this, follow these steps: Log off the current user account that encounters the icon change. Log on as a user who has administrator rights.

Learn how to customize the default desktop icons in Windows, adjust their size to suit your preferences, and show or hide all icons as needed.

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

Open the Windows Start menu and click Settings > Apps. Find Microsoft Office Desktop Apps in the app list, select it and click on Advanced options. Click Fix, wait for about one minute and then restart your device. If the problem persists, repeat these steps but click Reset instead of Fix in Step 3.

A blank screen, often referred to as a “black screen” due to its appearance, can occur in Windows for several reasons. Whether it happens at startup, after login, or following an update, this guide will help you identify the cause and resolve the issue.

You can change icon alignment, add or remove apps, and show or hide system icons to reduce clutter and improve focus. This article walks you through how to customize the Windows taskbar step by step.

To arrange icons by name, type, date, or size, right-click a blank area on the desktop, and then click Arrange Icons. Click the command that indicates how you want to arrange the icons (by Name, by Type, and so on). If you want the icons to be automatically arranged, click Auto Arrange.

This option allows you to personalize your Windows experience by applying your chosen accent color to the Start menu, taskbar, and action center. When enabled, the accent color you select will be prominently displayed on these elements, giving your desktop a cohesive and customized look.

Turn on the toggle under Turn on high contrast. Then, choose a theme from the drop-down menu. You can customize colors for things like links and button text. When you're done, select Apply. To turn off high contrast mode, switch off the toggle under Turn on high contrast.

Find how-to articles, videos, and training for Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft 365, Windows 11, Surface, and more.