Tired of opening your browser every time you want to watch your favorite Netflix show? Wouldn’t it be easier if Netflix was just one click away on your Windows 11 desktop? Good news—you can! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to add Netflix to your desktop in Windows 11, whether through the Microsoft Store app, creating a shortcut, or using a browser-based trick.
Why Add Netflix to Your Desktop in Windows 11?
Before we jump into the how-to, let’s talk about the why. Having Netflix directly on your desktop means:
-
Quick access – No more typing in URLs.
-
Cleaner workflow – Launch it like a regular app.
-
Offline viewing – Download and watch your favorite shows without internet (app feature).
-
Better multitasking – Snap Netflix alongside other apps easily.
Sounds good, right? Now let’s get Netflix on your desktop.
Method 1: Install Netflix App from Microsoft Store
This is the most straightforward way to get Netflix on your desktop.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Store
-
Click on the Start Menu and search for Microsoft Store.
Step 2: Search for Netflix
-
In the search bar, type Netflix and hit Enter.
Step 3: Download and Install
-
Click Get (or Install) to download the official Netflix app.
Step 4: Launch Netflix
-
Once installed, Netflix will appear in your Start Menu. You can also pin it to the Taskbar or add a desktop shortcut (we’ll cover that next).
Method 2: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Netflix App
After installing Netflix from the Microsoft Store, you can easily add it to your desktop.
Step 1: Locate the App
-
Go to the Start Menu and find Netflix under “All apps.”
Step 2: Drag to Desktop
-
Click and drag the Netflix icon directly to your desktop. Boom—you’ve got a shortcut!
Step 3: Pin to Taskbar (Optional)
-
Right-click the app, then select Pin to Taskbar for even faster access.
Method 3: Add Netflix as a Browser Shortcut
Don’t want to install the app? No problem—you can create a desktop shortcut directly from your browser.
For Google Chrome:
-
Open Netflix.com in Chrome.
-
Click the three-dot menu (top-right).
-
Go to More tools > Create shortcut.
-
Check Open as window (optional, for an app-like experience).
-
Click Create, and a shortcut will appear on your desktop.
For Microsoft Edge:
-
Open Netflix.com in Edge.
-
Click the three-dot menu.
-
Select Apps > Install this site as an app.
-
Name it “Netflix” and confirm.
-
The shortcut is now on your desktop and Start Menu.
Method 4: Add Netflix to Desktop via File Explorer
If shortcuts aren’t working, you can create one manually.
-
Right-click your desktop and choose New > Shortcut.
-
Paste this URL:
https://www.netflix.com -
Name the shortcut “Netflix.”
-
Done—you now have a Netflix icon on your desktop!
Method 5: Use Netflix as a Progressive Web App (PWA)
Both Chrome and Edge allow Netflix to run as a PWA (Progressive Web App). This makes it feel like a native app without installing from the Store.
-
Open Netflix.com in your browser.
-
Click the menu (three dots).
-
Choose Install Netflix or Add to desktop.
-
It launches in its own window like a real app.
How to Enable Offline Downloads in Netflix App
If you use the Microsoft Store Netflix app, you can download movies and shows.
-
Open the Netflix app.
-
Sign in to your account.
-
Navigate to your favorite movie/series.
-
Click the Download icon.
-
Access your downloads later via the Downloads section.
Customizing Your Netflix Desktop Shortcut
Want to make your shortcut look cooler?
-
Change Icon: Right-click your Netflix shortcut → Properties → Change Icon.
-
Rename Shortcut: Right-click → Rename → Type “Netflix” (or something fun like “Binge Hub”).
-
Move to Taskbar or Start: Right-click → Pin to Start/Taskbar.
Troubleshooting Netflix Desktop Issues
-
Shortcut not working? Delete it and create a new one.
-
App not installing? Update Microsoft Store from Settings.
-
Netflix app crashing? Run Windows Update and reinstall the app.
-
Black screen issues? Try updating your graphics driver.
Alternatives to Netflix App on Desktop
If for some reason you don’t want the app:
-
Use Netflix.com directly in your browser.
-
Use Edge PWA for a lightweight desktop version.
-
Create a custom shortcut with your favorite browser.
Pro Tips for Better Netflix on Desktop
-
Use Windows Snap Layouts to multitask (watch Netflix + work side by side).
-
Enable Subtitles in the app for better accessibility.
-
Use keyboard shortcuts like Space (pause/play), F (fullscreen), Esc (exit fullscreen).
Conclusion
Adding Netflix to your Windows 11 desktop is quick, easy, and makes binge-watching just a click away. Whether you go with the Microsoft Store app, create a desktop shortcut, or install Netflix as a Progressive Web App, the choice is yours. With these methods, you’ll never waste time searching for Netflix again—your entertainment hub will always be just one double-click away.
FAQs
1. Is the Netflix app on Windows 11 free to install?
Yes, the app is free, but you’ll need a Netflix subscription to watch content.
2. Can I download movies with the Netflix desktop app?
Yes, if you use the Microsoft Store app, you can download content for offline viewing.
3. What’s the difference between the app and browser shortcut?
The app supports offline downloads, while the browser shortcut only streams content online.
4. Does the Netflix desktop app support 4K?
Yes, but only on Microsoft Edge or the Netflix app, and if your plan supports Ultra HD.
5. Can I pin Netflix to Start Menu in Windows 11?
Absolutely—just right-click the Netflix app and choose Pin to Start.