Windows 10: "Desktop is missing"

I'm recycling my old laptop to give to a friend. But I've stumbled across an issue. When I reset it, it was frozen at 44% for a few hours before a message popped up which I can't recall. Then it redirected me to the regular sign-in screen for Windows. I signed in, and then I got this error:



The desktop is completely broken. The only thing there is the recycle bin, which gets an error message whenever I open it. There's nothing but the Windows button, search, and task view on the taskbar. Not even the volume works. I've tried to look up similar errors, but their folders and taskbar function fine. Please help!


Thanks in advance

:)

 

Windows 10 missing desktop files

Hi Adriane,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I can imagine the inconvenience you have experienced. I will definitely help you with this.

• Did you do a clean installation of Windows or upgrade to Windows 10?

I suggest you to follow the below steps and check if you can find your desktop files.

• Open This PC.
• Double click on C: drive.
• Open Users > double click on your user name.
• Open Desktop and check if you can find missing files.

Kindly let us know if you need any further assistance with Windows. We are glad to assist you.

Thank you.

 

Why did the startup window get cleared?

I didn't missed any step, the list was gone and gone , even after using lot of programs the programs were not listed in that list.

 

Missing desktop icons

Hi,

In order for us to address your concern about the missing desktop icons, kindly answer the following questions first:

• Have you made any recent changes to your computer system prior to getting this issue?
  
• What is the current version and build of your Windows 10? To get these information follow these steps:
  

• Press Windows key + R.
• Once the Run box appears, type Winver.
• Press Enter.
• A small window will appear which will show these information.

(You may need to update your Windows computer, please refer to this
support link to get information about Windows update history as well as how to update your device.)

• Aside from doing the commands above, what are other troubleshooting steps have you taken for your missing desktop icons issue?
  

We look forward to your response.

Regards.