Do you love binge-watching your favorite shows but hate opening your browser every time you want to access Netflix? Good news—you can add Netflix directly to your Windows 11 desktop for faster, easier access. Whether you want a desktop shortcut, a Microsoft Store app, or even a Progressive Web App (PWA) version, Windows 11 makes it simple.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through multiple ways to add Netflix to your Windows 11 desktop, so you can pick whichever works best for you.
Why Add Netflix to Your Desktop in Windows 11?
Before diving into the steps, here are a few reasons why adding Netflix to your desktop makes sense:
- One-click access instead of typing the URL each time.
- Faster streaming experience—especially with the Microsoft Store app.
- Organized workspace—keep all your apps and shortcuts handy.
- Offline downloads (with the app only)—great for watching without Wi-Fi.
Method 1: Install Netflix App from Microsoft Store
The easiest way to get Netflix on your desktop is to install the official app.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Store
- Click on the Start menu and search for Microsoft Store.
Step 2: Search for Netflix
- In the Microsoft Store search bar, type Netflix and hit Enter.
Step 3: Install the App
- Select the Netflix app and click Get/Install.
- Wait for the download and installation to finish.
Step 4: Launch Netflix
- Once installed, you’ll see the app in your Start menu.
- Right-click it, then choose Pin to taskbar or Pin to Start for easy access.
Step 5: Add to Desktop
- Right-click the app in Start > More > Open file location.
- Right-click the Netflix shortcut and select Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).
Now Netflix is literally just one click away from your desktop.
Method 2: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Netflix Website
If you don’t want the app and just use Netflix in a browser, you can create a shortcut.
Step 1: Open Netflix in Browser
- Launch Chrome, Edge, or Firefox and go to www.netflix.com.
Step 2: Copy the URL
- Highlight the URL in the address bar and copy it.
Step 3: Create Shortcut
- Right-click an empty space on your desktop.
- Select New > Shortcut.
- Paste the Netflix URL into the location field.
- Click Next, type Netflix, and then Finish.
Step 4: Change Icon (Optional)
- Right-click the shortcut > Properties > Change Icon.
- Pick a Netflix-style icon for a cleaner look.
Method 3: Install Netflix as a Progressive Web App (PWA)
This works best with Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. It gives Netflix its own app-like window.
Step 1: Open Netflix in Edge/Chrome
- Go to www.netflix.com.
Step 2: Install as App
- In Edge: Click the three dots (…) > Apps > Install this site as an app.
- In Chrome: Click three dots (…) > More tools > Create shortcut > Open as window.
Step 3: Name the App
- Name it Netflix and click Install.
Step 4: Add Shortcut to Desktop
- The Netflix app will now show in Start and Apps list.
- Right-click and choose Pin to Taskbar or Send to Desktop.
Now Netflix opens in its own window, just like a native app.
Method 4: Pin Netflix Directly to Taskbar (Browser Shortcut)
If you mostly stream in the browser but want taskbar-level quick access, here’s how:
Step 1: Open Netflix in Browser
- Use Edge or Chrome to open Netflix.
Step 2: Pin to Taskbar
- In Edge: Menu > More tools > Pin to taskbar.
- In Chrome: Create a shortcut (as in Method 3), then pin it to the taskbar.
Which Method Should You Choose?
- For offline downloads → Microsoft Store app (best choice).
- For light users who just want quick access → Desktop shortcut.
- For app-like experience without installing → Progressive Web App (PWA).
- For ultra-fast access → Pin to Taskbar.
Conclusion
Adding Netflix to your Windows 11 desktop is super easy, whether you use the official app, a shortcut, or a PWA. If you want offline downloads, stick with the Microsoft Store app. But if you just need quick access in a browser, a desktop shortcut or pinned taskbar icon works perfectly. Either way, you’ll save time and enjoy one-click Netflix binge sessions right from your desktop.
FAQs
1. Can I download Netflix shows on Windows 11?
Yes, but only with the official Netflix app from Microsoft Store—not with browser shortcuts.
2. Is Netflix free on Windows 11?
The app itself is free, but you need a Netflix subscription to watch content.
3. Which is better—Netflix app or browser?
The app is better if you want offline downloads. The browser is fine for streaming only.
4. Can I add multiple Netflix profiles on the desktop app?
Yes, the app supports multiple profiles, just like the web version.
5. Why don’t I see Netflix in my Microsoft Store?
Check your region settings—the app may not be available in certain regions. You can still use the PWA method as an alternative.