Windows is an indispensable part of computing today, and with the release of Windows 11, users can expect new features and improvements to the operating system that make it even more functional and customizable. Among these features is the ability to add applications and websites to the desktop, allowing users to access them more easily. In this article, we will explore the different methods available to add to desktop Windows 11 and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To add to desktop Windows 11, you will only need a computer running Windows 11 and the application or website you want to add.
What Requires Your Focus?
The method you choose to add to desktop Windows 11 will depend on your preferences and habits. Some methods may be faster and easier to access, while others may offer more customization options. You should also consider whether you want to add an application or website, as this may affect your choice of method.
Different Methods to Add to Desktop Windows 11
Method 1: Via Drag and Drop
This method is the most common and straightforward way to add an application or website to the desktop in Windows 11.
Steps:
1. Find the application or website you want to add on your computer.
2. Click and hold the application or website icon with your mouse or touchpad.
3. Drag it to the desktop.
4. Release the mouse or touchpad to drop the icon onto the desktop.
5. The application or website icon will appear on the desktop.
Pros:
– Quick and easy to perform
– Little to no setup required
– Customizable icon position on the desktop
Cons:
– Limited customization options
– May clutter your desktop if you add too many icons
Method 2: Using the Context Menu
This method requires a right-click on the application or website icon.
Steps:
1. Find the application or website you want to add on your computer.
2. Right-click the icon to open the context menu.
3. Select “Pin to Start” or “Pin to Taskbar” from the options.
4. The application or website icon will appear on the Start menu or Taskbar.
Pros:
– Provides quick access to frequently used applications or websites
– Customizable icon position on the Start menu or Taskbar
– Suitable for users who prefer minimal desktop clutter
Cons:
– Limited customization options beyond icon position
– May not be suitable for applications or websites used less frequently
Method 3: Using the Microsoft Store
This method is more complex but is useful for obtaining applications from the Microsoft Store.
Steps:
1. Open the Microsoft Store app.
2. Search or browse for the application you want to add.
3. Click on the application.
4. Select “Pin to taskbar” or “Pin to Start” from the options.
5. The application icon will appear on the Start menu or Taskbar.
Pros:
– Ensures that applications are up to date and compatible with Windows 11
– Provides quick access to frequently used applications
– Suitable for users who prefer using the Microsoft Store to obtain applications
Cons:
– Requires additional steps beyond other methods
– Limited customization options beyond icon position
Why Can’t I Add Some Applications or Websites?
1. Some applications or websites may not have a desktop shortcut available.
Fix: You can create a shortcut by right-clicking on the application or website and selecting “Create Shortcut.”
2. Some websites have security protocols that prevent them from being added to the desktop.
Fix: Try adding the website to your Start menu or Taskbar instead using Method 2 or Method 3.
Implications and Recommendations
Adding applications or websites to the desktop can help streamline your workflow and reduce the time it takes to open frequently used programs or sites. However, it is essential to remember that adding too many icons to the desktop can clutter your screen, making it difficult to focus or find what you need. We recommend using Method 2 or Method 3 for frequently used applications or websites, while keeping your desktop icons to a minimum.
5 FAQs about Adding to Desktop Windows 11
Q1: How do I remove an application or website icon from the desktop in Windows 11?
A: Right-click on the icon and select “Delete” or “Remove from desktop.”
Q2: Can I customize the icon size or shape on the desktop in Windows 11?
A: Yes, right-click on the desktop, select “Display settings,” and adjust “Icon size” or “Icon spacing.”
Q3: Can I add a folder to the desktop in Windows 11?
A: Yes, use Method 1 or Method 2 to add a shortcut to the folder.
Q4: Can I add a web app to the desktop using these methods?
A: Yes, use Method 1 or Method 2 to add a shortcut to the web app.
Q5: Will adding too many icons to the desktop slow down my computer?
A: No, desktop icons do not affect computer speed or performance significantly.
Final Words
Adding applications or websites to the desktop in Windows 11 is a convenient way to access frequently used sites or programs quickly. With the different methods available, you can choose the one that suits your preferences and habits best. However, it is important to remember to keep your desktop icons to a minimum to avoid clutter and distraction.{“@context”:”https://schema.org”,”@type”:”FAQPage”,”mainEntity”:[{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” How do I remove an application or website icon from the desktop in Windows 11?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Right-click on the icon and select “Delete” or “Remove from desktop.””}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I customize the icon size or shape on the desktop in Windows 11?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, right-click on the desktop, select “Display settings,” and adjust “Icon size” or “Icon spacing.””}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I add a folder to the desktop in Windows 11?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, use Method 1 or Method 2 to add a shortcut to the folder.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I add a web app to the desktop using these methods?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, use Method 1 or Method 2 to add a shortcut to the web app.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Will adding too many icons to the desktop slow down my computer?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” No, desktop icons do not affect computer speed or performance significantly.”}}]}
