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Windows 95 Keyboard Shortcuts

F5 Redraws the Desktop

SUMMARY: Refresh the Windows desktop with a keystroke. Works on Windows 95, Vista, 7, etc.

Note that this tip works on other versions of Windows, including Windows 7.

When installing new software, especially packages that either change the display properties or file associations, the desktop may need to be refreshed. When this occurs, Windows may draw incorrect icons, generating general confusion until the system is rebooted.

Also, after editing the Registry, modified items that may affect the desktop or file associations may not be immediately recognized by the operating system.

Clicking on an empty area of the desktop and then pressing the F5 key will force a desktop refresh. In some situations this may fix the above problems.

Return to the Windows 95 Keyboard Shortcuts page.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download. < more >