The “Show Desktop” button is missing from your taskbar because Microsoft disabled it by default in a Windows 11 update to make room for the Copilot icon. The hidden slice at the very bottom-right corner of your screen is still there, but it must be manually reactivated in your system settings. Method 1: Turn It Back On via Settings (Recommended)
This is the easiest and fastest way to restore the missing button. Right-click on any empty space on your Taskbar. Click on Taskbar settings.
Scroll down and click on Taskbar behaviors to expand the menu.
Check the box next to “Select the far corner of the taskbar to show the desktop”. Method 2: Use Keyboard Shortcuts (Instant Access)
If you do not want to change your settings, you can completely bypass the physical button with built-in Windows hotkeys:
Windows Key + D: Minimizes all open windows instantly to show your desktop. Pressing it a second time brings all of your windows right back.
Windows Key + M: Minimizes all open windows, but will not restore them if pressed again.
Method 3: Fix a Frozen Taskbar (If the option is on but not working)
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