How to Add This PC in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 10, 2025

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you might have noticed that “This PC” (formerly known as My Computer) is missing from your desktop by default. This can be a bit frustrating because most of us rely on it to quickly access our drives, folders, and system information.

Don’t worry—you can easily bring it back. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to add “This PC” in Windows 11, along with some extra tips to make it more useful.

What is “This PC” in Windows 11?

“This PC” is the modern name for what older Windows versions called My Computer. It’s essentially your central hub for:

  • Viewing storage drives (C:, D:, USB drives, etc.)

  • Accessing system folders (Documents, Downloads, Music, Videos, etc.)

  • Checking available storage space

  • Opening network locations

Think of it as the control center for your files and storage.

Why Add “This PC” to Your Windows 11 Desktop?

While you can always access “This PC” through File Explorer, having it directly on your desktop saves time. Here’s why you might want it:

  • Quick access to drives and folders.

  • Easier navigation for beginners and professionals.

  • A familiar experience for users coming from Windows 10 or older versions.

  • Convenient for connecting external devices and checking storage.

Step 1: Open Personalization Settings

To begin, you’ll need to open Windows 11’s personalization menu.

Steps:

  1. Right-click on your desktop.

  2. Select Personalize from the context menu.

  3. This will open the Personalization settings window.

Step 2: Navigate to Themes Settings

From the personalization window, you can find the option to manage desktop icons.

Steps:

  1. In the left-hand menu, select Themes.

  2. Scroll down until you see Related settings.

  3. Click on Desktop icon settings.

Step 3: Enable “This PC” Icon

Here’s where the magic happens—you can turn on “This PC” directly.

Steps:

  1. In the Desktop Icon Settings window, you’ll see a list of icons (Computer, Recycle Bin, Control Panel, Network, etc.).

  2. Check the box next to Computer (this is “This PC”).

  3. Click Apply, then OK.

Now, the This PC icon will appear on your desktop. 🎉

Step 4: Pin “This PC” to Start Menu

If you prefer, you can also add “This PC” to your Start menu for quick access.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + S and type This PC.

  2. Right-click on This PC from search results.

  3. Select Pin to Start.

Now, “This PC” will appear as a tile in your Start menu.

Step 5: Pin “This PC” to Taskbar

If you want even faster access, pin it to the taskbar.

Steps:

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. In the navigation pane, right-click on This PC.

  3. Choose Pin to taskbar.

Now, you can open “This PC” with just one click.

Alternative Method: Create a Shortcut for This PC

If the above steps feel long, you can always create a desktop shortcut manually.

Steps:

  1. Right-click on your desktop.

  2. Choose New > Shortcut.

  3. In the location box, type:

explorer.exe shell:MyComputerFolder

  1. Click Next, name it This PC, and hit Finish.

A custom shortcut to “This PC” will appear on your desktop.

Customize the “This PC” Icon

Want to make it look cooler? You can change the default icon.

Steps:

  1. Go back to Desktop Icon Settings (as in Step 3).

  2. Select Computer (This PC).

  3. Click Change Icon.

  4. Pick a new icon from the list or browse for a custom one.

  5. Click Apply, then OK.

Now, your “This PC” has a personalized look!

How to Access This PC Without Adding the Icon

If you don’t want it on the desktop, there are still quick ways to access it:

  • Press Windows + E → opens File Explorer → click This PC.

  • Press Windows + R, type explorer shell:MyComputerFolder, and hit Enter.

  • Search for This PC in the Start menu.

Troubleshooting: This PC Icon Not Showing

If the “This PC” icon doesn’t appear, try these fixes:

1. Refresh Desktop

  • Right-click desktop → Refresh.

2. Restart Explorer

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  • Find Windows Explorer, right-click, and select Restart.

3. Reset Icon Cache

  • Sometimes icons get stuck. Rebuild the icon cache by restarting Windows.

Extra Tips for Using This PC in Windows 11

  • Add Quick Access Links: Pin your favorite folders (Documents, Downloads, etc.) inside File Explorer for faster access.

  • Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press Windows + E anytime to open File Explorer directly.

  • Rename “This PC”: Right-click the icon → Rename → type your preferred name (e.g., Work PC or Gaming Rig).

Advantages of Adding This PC in Windows 11

  • Saves time when navigating files.

  • Familiar layout for long-time Windows users.

  • Easy access to drives and system properties.

  • Allows customization for personal workflow.

Final Thoughts

Adding This PC in Windows 11 is a small tweak that makes a big difference in usability. With just a few clicks, you can bring back the classic icon to your desktop, Start menu, or taskbar. Whether you prefer quick shortcuts or a neat desktop, Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to access “This PC.”

So, if you’ve been missing the old My Computer vibe, go ahead and follow these steps—you’ll feel right at home again.

FAQs

1. Why is “This PC” missing in Windows 11 by default?

Microsoft hides it to promote a cleaner desktop look, but you can easily re-enable it.

2. Can I rename “This PC” in Windows 11?

Yes, just right-click the icon and select Rename.

3. How do I add “This PC” to File Explorer sidebar?

It’s already there under Navigation Pane. You can also drag it to Quick Access.

4. Is there a keyboard shortcut to open “This PC”?

Yes, press Windows + E, then select This PC.

5. Can I use a custom icon for “This PC”?

Absolutely! You can change it in Desktop Icon Settings and even use downloaded icons.

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