How to Add a Control Panel Icon to the Windows 7 Desktop

This very brief tutorial will show you how to add quick access to your Control Panel from your Windows 7 desktop – without having an ugly “shortcut” icon.

1. Normally, when you create a shortcut to something from your Windows 7 desktop, it includes the rather unattractive “Shortcut” icon (see below).



2. To create a much better looking ‘shortcut’ – click the Windows 7 “Start Orb” (button) and then right-click on the Control Panel entry. Select Show on Desktop from the pop-up menu.



3. Now your desktop will have a much more appealing Control Panel icon.



4. Note: you can repeat the same steps to get a “Computer” (aka “My Computer”) icon on your desktop as well.

Please note: unfortunately, this doesn’t work in Windows 10.

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