Temp Desktop

This is a program for temporarily changing the folder that windows uses for the Desktop UI. I find this useful when working in a particular folder for long periods of time, where normally I would need to keep the File explorer open.

It works by simply editing the Registry key that sets your desktop folder and then copying all desktop shortcuts to a backup folder to hide them temporarily.

Usage

1. Install .NET 8
2. Download the latest release of Temp Desktop
3. Extract the folder
4. Run Temp Desktop.exe
5. Press Change Desktop Folder and select the folder you'd like to use. Consider adding a shortcut to Temp Desktop.exe in the folder you'll be using as your desktop to make it more convenient to switch back.
6. You will be signed out of Windows - sign back in and the Desktop folder will be changed.
7. When you're done working in the temporary desktop folder, re-open the application and choose Reset Desktop Folder

Notes

• When changing the desktop folder your desktop shortcuts will be moved from C:\Users\Public\Desktop to C:\Users\Public_Desktop_Backup. This keeps them from showing on the new desktop screen, they are moved back to the appropriate folder when Reset Desktop Folder is selected.
• The program requires admin access due to the above note, since adding files to C:\Users\Public\Desktop requires elevated priveledges.