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To show the desktop from the Windows 11 taskbar, enable the built-in control at the taskbar’s far corner. Right-click the taskbar, open Taskbar settings, expand Taskbar behaviors, and turn on Select the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop.
Select the small far-corner area to minimize open windows and reveal the desktop; select it again to restore them. This is a built-in taskbar control, not a separate Desktop app icon to install or pin.
Enable Show desktop in Windows 11
- Right-click an empty area of the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Expand Taskbar behaviors.
- Turn on Select the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop.
- Select the small area at the far end of the taskbar to show the desktop. Select it again to restore your open windows.
The setting and behavior are described in Microsoft’s taskbar customization instructions.
Show desktop or pin an app?
| What you want to do | What to use |
|---|---|
| Temporarily reveal the desktop and then return to your open windows | Enable and select the built-in far-corner Show desktop control. |
| Open a particular program from the taskbar | Use that program’s Pin to taskbar command. Pinning an app is separate from showing the desktop. |
| Show the desktop with the keyboard | Press Windows key + D. This keyboard shortcut does not add or configure a taskbar control. |
For an app, right-click its name or tile and choose Show more options > Pin to taskbar, as described in Microsoft’s Office shortcut instructions. Microsoft also lists Windows key + D in its Windows keyboard shortcuts reference.
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Logitech Studio Series Small Mouse Pad, Anti-Slip 9x8 Inches, Graphite
- Move and glide effortlessly: The Studio Series mouse pad features a smooth, comfortable cloth surface with a fine weave for effortless, silent gliding on any surface whether in the office or at home
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- Carefully chosen materials: Travel mouse pad made from comfortable surface fabric and inner layer(2) using recycled polyester, giving a 2nd life to PET bottles, anti-slip base from natural rubber
- Pair with your Logitech Mouse: Fresh color and modern design make Logitech Mouse Pad a suitable accomplice for your wired, wireless or Bluetooth mouse, taking your work setup to new heights
FAQ
How do I show the desktop from the taskbar in Windows 11?
Enable Select the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop under Taskbar settings > Taskbar behaviors, then select the far-corner area of the taskbar.
Does Show desktop add a Desktop icon to the taskbar?
No. It enables a built-in control at the taskbar’s far corner. It reveals the desktop by minimizing open windows; it is not a pinned shortcut that opens the Desktop folder in File Explorer.
Rank #2
MROCO Essential Office & Gaming Mouse Pad, 30% Larger, 8.5” x 11” in, Black
- Classic Black, Standard Size: This 8.5” x 11” letter-size mouse pad fits almost any workspace. At 3mm thickness, it smooths uneven surfaces, providing a balanced combination of speed and control for your mouse, ideal for work or gaming.
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How do I get back to my open windows?
Select the far-corner Show desktop control again to restore the windows it minimized.
Can I use a keyboard shortcut instead?
Yes. Press Windows key + D to show or work with the desktop. This does not change the taskbar setting.
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JIKIOU 3 Pack Mouse Pad with Stitched Edge, Perfect Size 10.2x8.3in Black
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JYWYBF Ergonomic Mouse Pad with Wrist Rest, Gel Wrist Support Mousepad, Pain Relief Laptop Computer Mouse Pad, Non-Slip Mouse Pads for Office & Home (Black, 9.5 x 8.3 in)
- EFFECTIVE RELIEF OF WRIST STRAIN: This is a wrist support mouse pad with a unique comfort gel padded cushion that moulds to the wrist for maximum comfort and support. Featuring an ergonomic design, it effectively relieves wrist fatigue from prolonged mouse use and reduces wrist pressure and discomfort.
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Amazon Basics Ergonomic Mouse Pad with Wrist Support for Pain Relief, Gel-Filled Cushion, Non-Slip Rubber Grip Base, 10.1 x 8.1 Inches, Black
- ERGONOMIC WRIST SUPPORT: Black mouse pad with wrist rest features unique comfort gel-filled cushion that conforms to your wrists for maximum comfort and support during extended use
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- COMPACT SIZE: Measures 10.1L x 8.1W inches; ideal ergonomic mouse pad for desktop workstations and laptop setups
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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