Desktop environment
A desktop environment (DE) is the graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to interact
with a computer’s operating system easily using visual elements like windows, icons, menus, and
toolbars instead of text commands. It is what you see and use on your screen after the computer
starts it’s the visual layer that makes using the computer easy and user-friendly.
Key Components of a Desktop Environment
1. Desktop: The main workspace area where icons and shortcuts appear.
2. Taskbar/Panel: Shows open applications and system notifications.
3. Start Menu/Application Launcher: Gives access to programs and system settings.
4. File Manager: Allows users to browse and manage files and folders.
5. System Tray/Notification Area: Displays system status icons (battery, Wi-Fi, volume,
clock).
Desktop
Recycle bin
Desktop Icons
Start button Task bar
Notification
Area
Figure 1: Windows desktop environment
Windows Desktop Icons
The Windows desktop is the main screen that appears after logging into a Windows computer. It
acts as the starting workspace where users can access files, folders, and applications quickly. You
can rename, move, or delete desktop icons and create shortcuts for easier access to frequently
used programs.
Common Desktop Icons:
o Recycle Bin: Stores deleted files temporarily until they are permanently removed.
o This PC (My Computer): Provides access to drives, files, and connected devices.
o File Explorer: Used to browse and manage files and folders.
o Network: Shows connected networks and shared resources.
o Application Shortcuts: Quick links to open programs like Microsoft Word, Edge, or Excel.
Customizing the Windows Desktop
Customizing the Windows desktop allows users to change its look and behavior to make the
computer more personal, organized, and efficient.
1. Change Desktop Background
o Steps:
Right-click on the desktop → Personalize → Background.
Choose a picture, solid color, or slideshow as wallpaper.
2. Adjust Icon Settings
o Steps:
Right-click on the desktop → View → Choose Large, Medium, or Small icons.
You can also auto arrange or align icons to grid.
o To show or hide system icons:
Settings → Personalization → Themes → Desktop icon settings.
3. Change Theme
o Steps:
Go to Settings → Personalization → Themes.
Select a light, dark, or custom theme with different colors and sounds.
4. Customize Taskbar
o Steps:
Right-click on the Taskbar → Taskbar settings.
You can pin or unpin apps, move the taskbar position, or hide it automatically.
5. Add or Remove Shortcuts
o To add: Right-click a program → Send to → Desktop (create shortcut).
o To remove: Right-click an icon → Delete (this removes only the shortcut, not the app).
A. Switch off the computer
Shutting down a computer closes all open programs and exits the operating system safely so
hardware isn't damaged and your operating system isn't corrupted. The sections below explain how
to shut down a computer, with instructions for different operating systems.
Steps to Switch off a Computer (Windows):
Save your work – Close all files and applications.
Click on the Start menu -> Select the Power icon -> Click "Shut down"
Figure 2: Switch off options
Shutting down a computer
It is good practice to use the correct shut down procedure when you want to turn off your computer
so that you do not lose data. You may get a message asking you to confirm whether files need to
be saved. Make sure you save any work you have done before you turn off the computer.
Logging off
Logging off means you are disconnecting the computer from log in account and no one else will
be able to access the same computer unless they also have a log on (username and password). You
must log off the computer regardless of whether or not you will be turning off the power.