How to: Add and Remove Shortcuts in the File System Editor
Shortcuts can be added to a deployment project in order to provide direct access to files on the target computer. For example, you might want to allow a user to launch an executable file by placing shortcuts to it on the user's desktop and Start menu, or you might want to add a shortcut to the Application folder so the user could browse its contents.
Warning
Attempting to add an existing shortcut via the Add Files command will add the file that the shortcut points to rather than the shortcut itself.
Note
The dialog boxes and menu commands you see might differ from those described in Help depending on your active settings or edition. To change your settings, choose Import and Export Settings on the Tools menu. For more information, see Working with Settings.
To add a shortcut to a file or folder
In the File System Editor, select the file or folder to which you want to create a shortcut.
Note
When adding a shortcut to a special folder, you must set the AlwaysCreate property of the folder to true.
On the Action menu, click Create Shortcut to <Name>. The shortcut appears in the file list.
Note
The Action menu is in the top navigation bar or in the shortcut menu.
Select the shortcut, and choose Cut from the Edit menu.
In the folder list, select the folder where you want the shortcut to appear on the target computer, and choose Paste from the Edit menu.
Tip
You can also drag shortcuts from one place to another.
To remove a shortcut
- Select the shortcut in the file list, and choose Delete from the Edit menu.
See Also
Tasks
How to: Add and Remove Project Outputs in the File System Editor
How to: Add and Remove Files in the File System Editor
How to: Add and Remove Assemblies in the File System Editor