"C:\WINDOWS\system32\config\systemprofile\Desktop is unavailable"
Encounter the issue on a Windows 10 Home running AVG Antivirus (re: speculative chat about antivirus
TechRadar: Windows 10 April 2018 Update’s latest flaw is the mystery of the disappearing desktop).
Resolved the issue with a reinstall from media created (using another machine*) with the
Create Windows 10 installation media Download Tool.
*My laptop doesn't use third-party antivirus, instead using Windows 10 Security (Defender, etc.).
The first attempt failed having picked the option Keep personal files and apps. After final restart the same issue was still present; nothing had changed.
The second attempt succeeded by picking the option Keep personal files only i.e. all apps and settings are removed. These options are on the Ready to install and Choose what to keep screens during the reinstall. I also selected the option
Not right now on the Get important updates screen.
Without the ability to access the Start menu or Windows Explorer in order to run Windows setup.exe on the installation DVD, I accessed the
Task Manager by Right Clicking on the Taskbar.
From the Task Manager File Menu select Run New Task and
Browse to setup.exe on the DVD. I found I had to check the Create this task with administrative privileges; without this it didn't seem to run.
On final restart all was well. Folders that appeared empty and files I could not see (via the Run New Task browse window) like pictures and documents had reappeared.
Obviously all the apps will have to be reinstalled.
UPDATE: Since then, Windows Update has run and all is still well. I have not reinstalled AVG antivirus.