Create HP Smart Shortcut On Desktop In Windows 11

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HP printers and scanners rely heavily on the HP Smart app for everyday tasks like printing, scanning, ink monitoring, and troubleshooting.

In Windows 11, HP Smart is usually installed automatically from the Microsoft Store, but many users struggle to find it quickly because the app does not always create a desktop shortcut by default.

If you’re tired of opening the Start menu every time or searching for HP Smart, creating a desktop shortcut is the fastest solution.

This guide explains all working methods to create an HP Smart shortcut on the desktop in Windows 11, including Microsoft Store apps, Start menu shortcuts, and manual workarounds.

Why Create an HP Smart Desktop Shortcut?

  • Faster access to printer and scanner controls

  • No need to search the Start menu

  • Helpful for offices and frequent printing

  • Saves time for daily workflows

Method 1: Create HP Smart Shortcut from Start Menu (Easiest)

This is the simplest and most reliable method.

Steps:

  1. Click the Start button in Windows 11.

  2. In the search bar, type HP Smart.

  3. When HP Smart appears in the results, click and hold the app.

  4. Drag it directly onto your Desktop.

  5. Release the mouse button.

✅ A desktop shortcut for HP Smart will be created instantly.

Method 2: Create HP Smart Shortcut Using “Open File Location”

If drag-and-drop doesn’t work, try this method.

Steps:

  1. Open Start Menu and search for HP Smart.

  2. Right-click on HP Smart.

  3. Select Open file location.

  4. A folder will open with an HP Smart shortcut.

  5. Right-click the HP Smart icon.

  6. Click Send to → Desktop (Create shortcut).

✅ You’ll now see HP Smart on your desktop.

Method 3: Create HP Smart Shortcut via Applications Folder (Advanced)

This method works for Microsoft Store apps like HP Smart.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

  2. Type the following command and press Enter:

    shell:AppsFolder

  3. The Applications folder will open.

  4. Scroll down and locate HP Smart.

  5. Right-click HP Smart.

  6. Select Create shortcut.

  7. Click Yes when Windows asks to place it on the desktop.

✅ HP Smart shortcut will appear on your desktop.

Method 4: Pin HP Smart to Taskbar or Start (Optional)

If you don’t want a desktop shortcut, pinning is a good alternative.

Steps:

  1. Open Start Menu.

  2. Search for HP Smart.

  3. Right-click the app.

  4. Choose:

    • Pin to Taskbar, or

    • Pin to Start

📌 This keeps HP Smart easily accessible at all times.

What If HP Smart Is Not Installed?

If HP Smart doesn’t appear anywhere, you may need to install it.

Steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Store.

  2. Search for HP Smart.

  3. Click Install.

  4. After installation, use any method above to create the shortcut.

Common Issues & Fixes

HP Smart not showing in search results

  • Restart your PC

  • Update Windows 11

  • Reinstall HP Smart from Microsoft Store

Shortcut opens Store instead of app

  • Recreate the shortcut using shell:AppsFolder

  • Avoid browser-based HP Smart links

Conclusion

Creating an HP Smart desktop shortcut in Windows 11 makes printer and scanner management faster and more convenient.

Whether you prefer the quick drag-and-drop method or advanced options like the Applications folder, all methods above work reliably for Microsoft Store apps.

Once the shortcut is created, you’ll have one-click access to HP Smart—saving time and improving productivity.

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