
If you want to know how to hide Windows 11 desktop icons, read this post. When you install a new program on Windows 11, it will ask if you want to create a shortcut icon on your desktop.
Knowing how to hide Windows 11 desktop icons is a great tool to lessen visual clutter if you allow all installed apps to create a shortcut icon on the desktop.
In this post, we will guide you through the necessary steps to know how to hide all Windows 11 desktop icons.
How to Hide Windows 11 Desktop Icons
Tip: this option is for both hiding and showing shortcut icons on the W11 desktop.
To remove icons from the Windows 11 desktop, follow the steps below:
- Right-click on the desktop.
- Select View.
- Click the Show desktop icons option.

After following the steps above, the system will hide the Windows 11 desktop shortcut icons.
How to show specific desktop icons in Windows 11
Tip: this option is to show standard Windows 11 icons. For example, trash, network, my computer, control panel, and so on.
To unhide Windows 11 desktop icons, follow the steps below:
- Open Settings.
- Select Personalization.
- Click Themes.

4. Click Desktop Icon Settings.

5. Check the check boxes for the icons you want to display on the desktop.

After following the steps above, the system will place icons on the Windows 11 desktop.
Summary
Learn how to make desktop icons invisible in Windows 11 to reduce desktop shortcuts.
So, follow the steps above and tell in the comments if you managed to hide the Windows 11 desktop icons.