Short answer
First right-click an empty area of the desktop and check View, Show desktop icons. If that does not help, look in the Desktop folder and confirm you are using the right Windows account.
What this usually means
Windows can hide all desktop icons with one setting. An update, a different user account, or a changed Desktop folder can also make the screen look empty while the files still exist.
Safe things to try
- 1
Show desktop icons
Right-click an empty part of the desktop, choose View, and make sure Show desktop icons is checked.
- 2
Check the Desktop folder
Open File Explorer and select Desktop on the left. If the files are there, the problem is display or account settings.
- 3
Check the account
Open Start and look at the account name. A different account has a different Desktop folder.
- 4
Check OneDrive carefully
If the Desktop folder points into OneDrive, do not move files around at random. Read the OneDrive guide before changing backup settings.
What not to do
- Do not recreate shortcuts by deleting or moving the original files.
- Do not empty the Recycle Bin while looking for missing icons.
- Do not assume a blank desktop means all files are gone.
When to get help
If the Desktop folder is empty too, stop deleting or installing cleanup tools. Check backups and recent account activity, then get help locating the original files.
Common questions
- Why did only my shortcuts disappear?
- Shortcuts may have been removed while the original documents remain in Documents, Pictures, or another folder.
- Can an update hide icons?
- Yes, a setting or account change can make icons disappear from view without deleting the files.
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