How do I stop Microsoft Store apps from automatically creating a desktop icon (Windows 11)

Question

How do I stop Microsoft Store apps from automatically creating a desktop icon (Windows 11)

Jack 20

Hello Microsoft,

Whenever I add or update an app from the Microsoft Store, it automatically adds to the desktop in Windows 11. I do not want this, and I do not see any option under the MS Store settings for my account that allows for the user to choose whether they want an MS Store app to have a shortcut added on the desktop upon install or update. I know that one can go into File Explorer, right-click the Desktop folder, go to Properties > Security > Edit, and click the Deny checkbox for Full Control, under permissions in order to prevent shortcuts from being added to the desktop; however, that also wipes out my personal shortcuts that I've added for my files/programs and blocks my ability to add them back on. I unfortunately cannot find any other advice or detail on this topic despite many, many web searches.

It would be good if Microsoft updated the MS Store app to add an option in Store Settings under one's profile that prompts the user with toggle options to "Add desktop shortcut upon app installation" and also "Add desktop shortcut upon app update". That, methinks, would resolve the issue and a Windows user's frustration.

Otherwise, how do I stop Microsoft Store apps from automatically creating a desktop icon?

I do not want this forced program. I do not want MS Store spam.

Sincerely,

AIFWU: An Increasingly Frustrated Windows User

Jackie Brown 0 Reputation points

2026-06-14T20:41:19.45+00:00

The message I get offers 5-7 options, but nowhere is there a DELETE option

Answer accepted by question author

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Jackie Brown 0 Reputation points

2026-06-14T20:41:19.45+00:00

The message I get offers 5-7 options, but nowhere is there a DELETE option

Answer 1

Arlene D 36,235 Independent Advisor

Thanks for your message. To understand better, are all Microsoft Store apps creating shortcuts or only specific ones?

At this time, Windows does not include a supported setting to stop desktop shortcuts when installing or updating Store apps. If a shortcut appears, you can delete it by right clicking and selecting Delete, and this does not remove the app. Microsoft Store and Windows settings do not offer a toggle to prevent shortcut creation, so managing icons manually is the recommended method for now.

Jack 20 Reputation points

2025-12-12T19:34:35.2033333+00:00

Hi Arlene, it's for all apps installed/updated from the Microsoft Store. I've been doing the manual method for a while now, I was hoping Microsoft would see this and respond or make a UX update to the MS Store, but I guess that's wishful thinking on my part. Thank you for confirming.
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