How to Create a Shortcut for the Windows Control Panel

by Lysis

Overview

Shortcuts are a way to quickly access your favorite programs and directories on your Windows machine. Even though Microsoft changes its operating system through the years, creating icons is still a standard for Windows machines. You can create an icon for most tasks in Windows including programs, directories, websites and even the Control Panel. Creating an icon to the Control Panel is similar to creating one for any other directory in Windows.

Step 1

Double-click the "My Computer" icon on your Windows desktop. In Windows Vista, the icon is named "Computer." This opens a window that lists your drives, but it also has a link to the Control Panel.
Step 2

Use your mouse to drag and drop the Control Panel to the desktop. When you do this, the program does not move. Instead, the Windows operating system knows to add a shortcut.
Step 3

Right-click the new icon on the desktop and select "Rename." Enter a new name for the Control Panel.
Step 4

Double-click the new icon to test its functionality. The Windows Control Panel opens.

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You can do the same steps with icons for Control Panel settings. This places Control Panel settings on your desktop for quick access.
You can do the same steps with icons for Control Panel settings. This places Control Panel settings on your desktop for quick access.