Shortcut icon and files icon both display and take up display space. Deleting one removes both.

[JT0911]

Display shows both Shortcut icon and _files icon for same item which takes up screen space.  If I delete one they both go away.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @JT0911,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd like to help!

It sounds like you're encountering duplicate icons for the same item on your HP laptop's display, where deleting one removes both icons. This issue might be due to a temporary display glitch or a file association problem. Here's what you can try to resolve it:

Refresh the Desktop: Right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select "Refresh" from the context menu. This action might clear any temporary display glitches causing duplicate icons.

Change View Settings: Try changing the view settings on your desktop. Right-click on an empty area, go to "View," and try selecting different options such as "Large icons," "Medium icons," or "Small icons" to see if it resolves the duplication.

Check File Associations: Sometimes, a file association issue can cause duplicate icons. Right-click on one of the duplicate icons and select "Properties." Check the file type and associated program. Ensure the file is associated with the correct program and isn't set to open with a generic or unknown program.

Scan for Malware or Viruses: Run a full system scan using your antivirus software. Sometimes, malware or viruses can cause unusual behavior on your system, including duplicated icons.

Reset Icon Cache: You can try resetting the icon cache, which might resolve display-related issues. To do this, you'll need to access the system files, so proceed with caution or seek help if you're unsure:

• Open File Explorer and go to the following directory: C:\Users<YourUsername>\AppData\Local
• Find the "IconCache.db" file. Rename it to something like "IconCache_old.db."
• Restart your computer. Windows will automatically recreate the icon cache.

Ensure your operating system and drivers are up-to-date. Sometimes, system updates or driver patches can resolve display-related issues. Click here

Create a New User Profile: If the issue persists, creating a new user profile might help. 

Sometimes, profile corruption can lead to display problems. Create a new user account and see if the issue persists there.

If none of these steps resolve the problem and the duplicate icons persist, it might be helpful to reach out to HP phone support. 

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

[JT0911]

This is not a new issue.  These duplicate icons show on other laptop desktop displays I have used in the past with windows.  I agree it may be a setting I have incorrect.  When I save something (file/subject, etc.) to desktop it creates an icon with the name which may be used to open the saved item plus an additional one with _files added to the name.  The displayed main shortcut icon opens the site but the additional _files icon just opens a list of items in that icon folder.  I have been living with situation for years.

HELP

[Nal_NR]

Hi @JT0911,

Thanks for trying the recommended steps. 

This might require one-on-one interaction to fix the issue via remote assistance.  

I've sent you a private message with further instructions. To access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name or simply click on this link.

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the Accepted Solution button, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!