Creating an account picture shortcut on your desktop in Windows 10 and Windows 11 can significantly streamline your computer experience. In this guide, we will cover everything from understanding what an account picture is to detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to create a shortcut for it on your desktop. This guide is designed for beginners, so feel free to follow along even if you have very little experience with computers.
What is an Account Picture?
Before we dive into the steps, let's clarify what an account picture is. Your account picture is the image that represents you on your computer. It appears on the sign-in screen, the Start menu, and can also be visible in applications that use your Microsoft account. Changing or customizing this picture can help personalize your Windows experience and make it easier to recognize your profile, especially if there are multiple accounts on the same device.
[Also read: How to speedup Windows and Windows 11 PC]
Why Create a Shortcut?
Creating a shortcut to your account picture on the desktop allows you to quickly change your account picture without navigating through various menus. It acts like a one-click solution to access your personal settings, enhancing your productivity and allowing you to customize your computer swiftly.
Understanding Windows 10 and Windows 11
While both Windows 10 and Windows 11 share many similarities, they also have distinct differences in their interface and features. Windows 10 has a more traditional layout, while Windows 11 adopts a more modern and streamlined design. However, the steps for creating a desktop shortcut for your account picture are relatively similar across both versions.
Prerequisites
Before we begin, make sure you have a few things ready:
- A Computer: You need a device running either Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- Administrator Access: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to your computer.
- An Image or Picture: If you don't already have an account picture that you want to use, you can either take a new photo or use an image file saved on your computer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Account Picture Shortcut
Step 1: Access Your Settings
Click on the Start Menu: You can do this by either pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or clicking on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Select “Settings”: Once the Start Menu opens, look for a gear icon that says “Settings” when you hover over it. Click on it to open the Settings window.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
- Choose “Accounts”: In the Settings menu, find and click on the option labeled “Accounts”. This section contains all the settings related to your user account, including your personal information and account picture.
Step 3: Change Your Account Picture
Go to “Your info”: In the Accounts section, click on “Your info” in the left sidebar. This will show you your current account details including your current account picture.
Change Picture: Look for the section labeled “Your picture”. Here, you'll see a button that says “Browse for one” or “Change”. Click on this button.
Select a Picture: A File Explorer window will open, allowing you to navigate through your files. Locate the picture you'd like to use, click on it, and then click the “Choose Picture” button.
Apply the Change: Your selected image will now be set as your account picture. Review how it looks and make sure you are satisfied.
Step 4: Create the Desktop Shortcut
Now that we’ve set the account picture, let’s create a shortcut on your desktop for quick access.
Right-click on the Desktop: Move your mouse to an empty area on your desktop. When you find an empty spot, right-click your mouse.
Select “New”: A context menu will appear. Hover over the option labeled “New” and a submenu will open.
Choose “Shortcut”: In the submenu, click on “Shortcut”. This will open the Create Shortcut wizard.
Enter the Target Location: In the window that appears, you will be prompted to enter the location of the item. For the account picture settings, you’ll need to enter the following path:
- For Windows 10:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Accounts\ - For Windows 11:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Accounts\
Replace
[Your Username]with your actual Windows user name.- For Windows 10:
Click “Next”: After entering the path, click the “Next” button.
Name Your Shortcut: You will then be prompted to name your shortcut. You can simply enter “Account Picture” or any name you prefer.
Finish: Click the “Finish” button. You should now see the new shortcut on your desktop.
Step 5: Customize the Shortcut Icon (Optional)
Right-click on the Shortcut: Find the shortcut you just created and right-click on it.
Choose “Properties”: In the context menu, select “Properties”.
Click on the “Change Icon” button: In the properties window, you will see a button labeled “Change Icon.” Click on this.
Select Icon: Choose an icon from the list or browse for a custom icon file on your computer.
Apply Changes: Click “OK” to apply the changes, and then click “Apply” in the properties window to finalize.
Step 6: Test Your Shortcut
- Double-click the Shortcut: To ensure that the new shortcut works, double-click it. It should lead you directly to the account picture settings. If you see the settings page, congratulations! You’ve successfully created your shortcut.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While creating your account picture shortcut is typically straightforward, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
Issue 1: Permission Denied
If you receive a message stating that you don’t have permission to access the folder, make sure your user account has administrative rights. You may need to consult the person who manages your computer if you are not the administrator.
Issue 2: Shortcut Doesn’t Open Settings
If your shortcut does not lead to the account picture settings, double-check the path you entered while creating the shortcut. Make sure it matches the directories specific to your user account.
Issue 3: Icon Not Changing
If you change the icon but it doesn’t update, remove the shortcut and create it again, ensuring you follow the customization steps carefully.
Additional Tips for Beginners
Keep It Simple: If you find the steps too complicated, consider asking a friend or family member for assistance. Sometimes, having an extra set of hands makes everything easier.
Explore Your Computer: Don’t hesitate to explore your computer. Familiarizing yourself with different settings can empower you to make the most of your technology.
Use Google: Don’t forget about the power of online resources. If you run into any specific issues, a quick Google search can provide you with answers and tutorials.
Practice Makes Perfect: Practice the steps described in this guide several times. The more you perform these actions, the more comfortable you will become.
Creating a desktop shortcut for your account picture in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is a small but impressive way to personalize your computing experience. Not only does it allow for easier access to your account settings, but it can also help you become more familiar with your operating system and its features. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and soon you will have a shortcut that enhances your productivity and makes your computer feel more like your own.
With practice, you will find that handling basic tasks like these will give you more confidence in using your computer, opening up a world of possibilities for what you can achieve. So take your time, follow the steps carefully, and soon enough, you will be on your way to mastering your digital domain. Happy computing!
If the above doesn't work, follow this.
Step 1 : Login to Your Windows PC.
Step 2 : Right click on Any Desktop and Select new->Shortcut.
Type the following in the Box
%windir%\explorer.exe %localappdata%\Packages\windows.immersivecontrolpanel_cw5n1h2txyewy\LocalState\Indexed\Settings\en-US\AAA_SettingsPageAccountsPicture.settingcontent-ms
and Click on Next.Note : If Your language is not US English then Change en-US According to your Language,Example en-GB for United Kingdom,etc...
Step 3 : Name the Shortcut as Anything You want,Example : Account Picture.
Step 4 : Click on Finish.
Step 5 : Close the Window.
Step 6 : Now Again Right Click on the Created Account Picture,And Select Properties.
[Click to See : How to Change Icon for Any App/Shortcut in Windows 10]
Now,You Can Change it According to Your Wish....