Add Internet Explorer Icon to Desktop

Restoring the Classic Internet Explorer Icon

It's understandable to seek a quicker solution. However, this method allows you to reinstate the original Internet Explorer icon, reminiscent of earlier Windows iterations.

Employing the native icon provides distinct advantages. Firstly, a right-click action grants immediate access to the Internet Options panel. Secondly, it eliminates the typical shortcut arrow overlay.

Important Note: This technique is not functional on Windows 7. Refer to the Microsoft Knowledge Base article for alternative solutions; essentially, creating a standard shortcut is necessary in that case.

Manual Registry Modification

Access the Registry Editor (regedit.exe) via the Start menu search or the Run dialog box. Navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDesktopIcons\NewStartPanel

Locate the key labeled "{871C5380-42A0-1069-A2EA-08002B30309D}" on the right pane. Set its value to 0.

If this key is absent, create a new 32-bit DWORD value with the identical name. Conversely, setting the value to 1 will remove the icon.

Users of the classic Start menu should create this value under the ClassicStartMenu key instead of NewStartPanel.

Utilizing a Registry Hack

For increased convenience, pre-configured registry files are available. Simply extract the archive and double-click the desired file to import the settings into the registry.

Add IE Icon to Desktop
Remove IE Icon from Desktop

These files streamline the process of modifying the registry, offering a simpler alternative to manual adjustments. Remember to back up your registry before making any changes.