Windows 11 has brought some significant changes to the desktop, including a new modern UI, improved performance, and enhanced security features. If you are a Windows 11 user, you might be wondering how to add icons to the desktop. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to add icons to the desktop in Windows 11.

Step 1: Access the Start Menu

To access the Start menu, click on the Start button located at the center of the taskbar in Windows 11. Alternatively, you can press the Windows key on your keyboard to open the Start menu.

Step 2: Find the Application or File You Want to Add as an Icon

Once you have accessed the Start menu, search for the application or file you want to add as an icon to the desktop. You can use the search bar which is located at the top of the Start menu, type the name of the application or file, and hit Enter.

Step 3: Pin the Application or File to the Taskbar

Right-click on the application or file you want to add as an icon and select Pin to Taskbar from the context menu. Alternatively, you can also drag and drop the application or file to the taskbar.

Step 4: Create a Desktop Shortcut

Now that you have pinned the application or file to the taskbar, you can create a desktop shortcut for it. Right-click on the application or file icon on the taskbar, and select Create desktop shortcut from the context menu.

Step 5: Move the Desktop Shortcut to the Desktop

Once you have created the desktop shortcut, it will be saved to the desktop folder in the File Explorer. Open the File Explorer, navigate to the desktop folder, and locate the shortcut you just created. Once you find it, drag and drop it to the desktop, and the shortcut will appear as an icon on your desktop.