How to Fix Desktop Icon/Folder/Files Disappeared in Windows 11/10

Updated on Jun 17, 2024 | by Rick

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Part 1. How to Fix Desktop Files Disappeared in Windows 11/10
Your Safe & Effective File Recovery Software
3 Steps to Recover Disappeared Desktop Files from Windows PC
Part 2. How to Fix Desktop Folder Disappeared in Windows 11/10
Part 3. How to Fix Desktop Icon Disappeared on Windows 11/10
Creating a Desktop Icon in Windows 11/10

If your computer operating system, files or folders are malfunctioning in Windows 11/10, you can use Deep Data Recovery to quickly retrieve lost files. If shortcuts or icons have disappeared from your desktop, you'll need to recreate them.

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If Windows desktop icons have suddenly disappeared from your Windows 11/10 PC, don't worry, you can try various troubleshooting tips to resolve the issue. You can choose a fix based on the error, and start using your PC again.

Part 1. How to Fix Desktop Files Disappeared in Windows 11/10

If the Windows desktop has disappeared and files are missing, it's likely due to deleted system files. These files aren't hidden, but rather deleted, and can often be recovered using specialized software.

The best method to recover deleted files is the Deep Data Recovery software, which allows you to retrieve deleted desktop files in three simple steps.

The program's efficiency and robustness are due to its algorithm, which scans for all recovery files and displays them on the screen with a thumbnail preview.

Your Safe & Effective File Recovery Software

Unfortunately, it's not possible to recover files that have been deleted after emptying the recycle bin or using the "Shift + Delete" keys, as they are permanently erased from the system. However, if you act quickly, you may be able to recover deleted files using data recovery software, such as Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, which can scan your computer's hard drive for deleted files and restore them.
Getting back content from formatted, hidden, or lost drives.
Files lost due to incorrect copying, moving, or operating storage media can often be recovered with the right techniques and tools.
Retrieving files from storage drives showing file system as RAW.

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Windows 11/10/8/7, 100% Secure

3 Steps to Recover Disappeared Desktop Files from Windows PC

1. Launch the program using the icon from the desktop, then select and choose the file types you want to recover from the Qiling display screen, and press the "Next" icon to proceed.

2. To recover your desktop files, first, open the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard software. Then, click on the "Recover" button in the main interface. In the second step, select the scanning location, which will display all the partitions available on your computer, along with any externally connected storage devices and their volume. Choose "Local Disk (C:)" as it contains the desktop files. Click the "Scan" button to recover deleted files in Windows 11/10.

3. Qiling recover desktop disappeared files tool completes the scan, and the time to complete the scan depends on the file type and number of files. Upon completion, the software shows all recoverable files arranged in order. You can click on file extension type from the left pane to view files at the center, and clicking a file shows its preview in the thumbnail view box. You can mark essential files and press "Recover" to save them in a chosen folder. The software then completes the recovery process.

If you suspect there are more files available, you can choose the "Deep Scan" mode. However, this process will be slower as it scans sector by sector.

Part 2. How to Fix Desktop Folder Disappeared in Windows 11/10

If your desktop icons disappeared after a Windows 11/10 update, you may be able to recover them by reverting to a previous recovery point, which will ensure that any folders and files you created on the desktop are still intact.

The chances of a folder disappearing can be attributed to several reasons, including updates, improper operation, and accidental deletion. To fix Windows 11/10 desktop shortcuts disappearing, reinstalling the operating system is an option, but it's crucial to recover the files from the folder before formatting the hard drive. Fortunately, files and folders can be retrieved using Deep Data Recovery.

After recovering your files, you can create a new folder on your desktop and move all the recovered files into it. To prevent data loss in the future, consider moving this folder to a different drive, such as Drive D, which is generally safer than the desktop. This way, your files will be protected even if there's a problem with your computer's operating system.

Part 3. How to Fix Desktop Icon Disappeared on Windows 11/10

If Windows 11/10 icons on the desktop have disappeared, it's likely because the option to show them has been turned off. To fix this, right-click on the desktop, select "View", and then click on "Show desktop icons". If a checkmark is already present beside this option, the icons should reappear. If not, clicking on it will activate the option and display the icons again.

Creating a Desktop Icon in Windows 11/10

If you notice your Windows 11/10 desktop empty after an update, you can try the following options to get back your icons.

1. To personalize your Windows 11/10 desktop, click on the blank space on your desktop and select the "Personalize" option from the context menu that appears.

2. Select Themes > Desktop icon settings.

3. In the following window, select the icons you want to show on your desktop.

If a software or folder icon is missing from the desktop, you can find the actual software or folder, right-click on it, and select "create shortcut" to recreate the icon on the desktop.

To keep your files safe, it's not a good idea to save them on your desktop due to the risk of permanent misplacement in case of a conflict or error. Instead, create a shortcut for the folder containing your important files to easily access them. Additionally, consider backing up files, folders, or drives with Qiling Disk Master, a reliable and efficient software that can copy everything, including partitions, system, and external drives, to protect critical information.