How to Place Files or Applications on the Public Desktop for All Users

Purpose

This guide explains how to make shortcuts, files, or application icons visible on the desktop for all users on a Windows-based VM by placing them in the Public Desktop directory.

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Requirements

• Administrator access to the Windows VM

• Access to the files or application shortcuts you want to share

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1. Navigate to the Public Desktop Folder

Step 1: Open File Explorer

• Press Windows + E or open File Explorer from the taskbar

Step 2: Access the Public Desktop Directory

Go to:

C:\Users\Public\Desktop

Anything placed in this folder will appear on the desktop of every user that logs into the VM.

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2. Add a Shortcut or File

You can add items in one of two ways:

Option A — Drag & Drop

1. Locate the file or application shortcut you want to share

2. Drag it into:

C:\Users\Public\Desktop

Option B — Create a Shortcut Manually

1. Right-click inside the Public Desktop folder and Select New > Shortcut

   

2. Browse for the application .exe file or paste the full path

3. Click Next, then Finish

The shortcut will now appear on the desktop for all users on the VM.

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Expected Result

• The added file or shortcut is visible on the desktop for every user

• Users can open the file or application without additional setup