There are multiple ways to open File Explorer (also known as Windows Explorer) in Windows 10/11. We can use search, the Start menu, the keyboard shortcut, or File Explorer pinned to the taskbar to open File Explorer.
But if you are someone who likes to access File Explorer by clicking on its icon on the desktop, you will be happy to know that Windows 10 and 11 offer two easy ways to create File Explorer shortcut on the desktop.
Here is how to add the File Explorer shortcut icon to Windows 10/11 desktop.
Method 1 of 2
Create File Explorer desktop shortcut on Windows 10/11 desktop
Step 1: Perform a right-click on an empty spot on the desktop, click New, and then click Shortcut. This will open Create Shortcut wizard.
Step 2: In the “Type the location of the item” field, copy and paste the following path.
C:\Windows\explorer.exe
NOTE: In the above command, replace “C” with the drive letter where Windows 10/11 is installed.
Click Next.
Step 3: Enter File Explorer in the “Type a name for this shortcut” field before clicking the Next button.
Step 4: Finally, click the Finish button to create the File Explorer shortcut on the desktop. That’s it! You can now double-click on the File Explorer icon on the desktop to open the same.
Method 2 of 2
Another way to add File Explorer icon on Windows 10/11 desktop
Step 1: Open the Run command box using search or Windows logo + R hotkey.
Step 2: In the Run command dialog, copy and paste the following command and then hit the Enter key to open Desktop Icon Settings.
desk.cpl , 5
NOTE: The above command has a space between cpl and the comma (,).
Step 3: In the Desktop Icon Settings dialog, select the Computer option and click the Apply button to add the Computer icon to the desktop.
As you likely know, double-clicking on the Computer icon on the desktop opens File Explorer to This PC.
Our how to create Google Chrome shortcut on desktop guide might also interest you.
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