How to Fix Desktop Icons Disappearing on Windows 11

Quick Tips

• In most cases, the problem should be resolved by enabling the Show Desktop Icons option.
• Running an SFC Scan may fix file corruption that triggers the problem.

Basic Fixes

• Run a malware scan: Malware is a common source of corruption that may lead to this icon issue. You should run a scan.
• Update the computer: You may encounter this problem when the operating system is outdated. Ensure you update the computer.
• Restart Windows Explorer: Windows desktop icons are part of the explorer.exe process. So, restart this process by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager > right-clicking Windows Explorer > selecting Restart.

Fix 1: Enable Show Desktop Icons

Before we proceed with advanced solutions to fix icons disappearing from desktop on Windows issues, ensure that the setting is enabled from the View menu. Follow the steps below.

Right-click on any open space on the desktop > click View > Show desktop icons.

Fix 2: Turn on Desktop Icons in Settings

Windows offers handy Desktop Icons Settings to enable/disable shortcuts for the Computer, User’s Files, Network, Control Panel, and Recycle Bin. Here’s how to access and enable those icons on your desktop.

Step 1: Right-click on the desktop and click Personalize.

Step 2: Expand Themes.

Step 3: Scroll down and select Desktop icon settings.

Step 3: Turn on desktop icons for the Computer, User’s Files, Network, Recycle Bin, and Control Panel, then hit Apply and click on OK.

Fix 3: Run SFC Scan to Fix Corrupted Files

On Windows 11, the SFC scan helps fix computer file corruption. These corrupt files may be why your icons are disappearing. Follow the steps below to run the scan.

Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter to launch an elevated Command Prompt.

Step 2: Type the below command and hit Enter.

sfc /scannow

Step 3: Follow any prompts on Command Prompt, then restart the computer at the end of the process.