Forum Discussion

ArthurMiller's avatar
ArthurMiller
Iron Contributor
Jul 13, 2026

The Desktop button on the Windows 11 taskbar does not immediately display the desktop when clicked

When you click the Show Desktop button in the far right corner of the taskbar, open windows are not fully minimized; one or two windows remain visible on the desktop. The desktop is not fully displayed until you click the button again or manually minimize the remaining windows, which reduces the efficiency of quickly returning to the desktop.

device management

2 Replies

  • iroyalssystems's avatar
    iroyalssystems
    Brass Contributor
    Aug 06, 2026

    This issue can occur due to a Windows Explorer glitch or a temporary system bug.

    Try these steps:

    1. Restart Windows Explorer from Task Manager.
    2. Install the latest Windows updates.
    3. Restart your PC and test the Show Desktop button again.
    4. Run these commands in Command Prompt (Admin):
      • sfc /scannow
      • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    5. If the issue started recently, try System Restore to a point before the problem began.

    If the problem continues, let us know whether it happens with all applications or only specific programs.

  • DashielQuinn's avatar
    DashielQuinn
    Iron Contributor
    Jul 14, 2026

    In Taskbar settings, change Click the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop toClick and restart File Explorer.