Chrome can create a desktop shortcut for a website so you can open the page without first navigating through bookmarks. Open the site in Chrome, open Chrome’s menu, and use the available save/share or shortcut command. Google occasionally changes the menu wording, so the exact label can vary by Chrome version.
Create the shortcut
- Open Google Chrome and visit the website.
- Open the three-dot Chrome menu.
- Look for the website shortcut option, which may appear under a save/share or related submenu.
- Choose Create shortcut when available.
- Give the shortcut a recognizable name and confirm.
The new shortcut opens the saved website in Chrome.
If you want the site to behave more like an app
Some websites can be installed as web apps. When Chrome offers an Install command, that can provide a more app-like window and operating-system integration than an ordinary URL shortcut.
A shortcut does not save the website offline
The desktop icon normally stores the web address, not a complete copy of the site. You will still need network access for content that the website serves online.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.