How to Find the Recycle Bin on Windows XP

The Recycle Bin is the place on your computer where all of your deleted files are stored. It is attached to the desktop screen in Windows XP by default, but sometimes third-party programs or an error within Windows XP itself can delete the Recycle Bin. You can place the Recycle Bin back onto the desktop by creating a registry key for it.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" menu. Click "Run." Type "regedit" in the text box. Click "OK."

2. Click the "+" symbol next to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE" and next to "SOFTWARE." Click the "+" next to "Microsoft" and "Windows." Click the "+" symbol next to "Current Version," "Explorer," and "Desktop." Right-click "NameSpace." Select "New" and click "Key."

3. Enter "{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}" without quotation marks, but with the brackets. Press "Enter."

4. Click the key you just created. Double-click "Default" in the right window. Enter "Recycle Bin" in the "Value Data" text box.

5. Click the red "X" to close the registry editor. Restart your computer. The recycle bin should appear on your desktop.

Tips & Warnings

• The registry is the command center of Windows. Do not under any circumstance edit or create any new key while putting the Recycle Bin back onto your desktop.

References

• Microsoft Support: How do I make the Recycle Bin appear on my desktop in Windows Vista or in Windows XP?