Jim wonders if there is a way to lock the position of the icons on the Windows desktop. He would like to group some of them in one area and others in another area, but not by date, size, or some other Microsoft category.
Unfortunately, there is no way to lock down the position of icons in Windows. As Jim has figured out, even if you take the time to move the icons where you want them, Windows will periodically reshuffle or resort them, particularly after a system crash, an update, or sometimes even after installing software.
This means that the best solution is to use third-party software to accomplish the task. There are a few different programs suggested by WindowsTips readers. The one most often suggested is Fences, which is published by Stardock Corporation. The latest version of the software is less than ten bucks, but you can try it out for free:
http://www.stardock.com/products/fences/
Other programs suggested by readers include DesktopOK, published by SoftwareOK. It is freeware that allows you to save the location of desktop icons and then restore that positioning as you desire. You can find it here:
http://www.softwareok.com/?Freeware/DesktopOK
The program IconRestorer does essentially the same thing. One cool feature is that it allows you to save different positioning information for different screen resolutions. So, if you change screen resolutions often, you can restore icon positioning based on which resolution you are using. It, too, is freeware; you can find more information here:
http://fsl.sytes.net/iconrestorer.html
Finally, there is WinOptimizer, published by Ashampoo. Their "icon saver" is a feature in the software, which does much, much more than just lock down the position of your icons. The current version of the software is not free (it costs about $40), but they do provide a free trial, or you can get an older version of the WinOptimizer for no cost. Find the details here:
https://www.ashampoo.com/en/usd
You'll need to click on the Products link and look for WinOptimizer.
This tip (5658) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.
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2016-01-11 09:52:44
Jennifer Thomas
If, like me, you aren't allowed to install software at will, try using folders on the Desktop and number/name them so they'll sort alphabetically. Then you can right-click the Desktop | View | Check Auto Arrange, and they'll display in alphabetic order every time.
I also recommend a folder for your jump list links; for whatever reason, mine disappear from time to time and having them captured is 1) and easy way to put them back; and 2) Gives you access to those locations when you are saving from within an application (especially networked destinations).
2016-01-11 07:44:38
Arnold
I use fences_public.exe Version 1.0.0.0 from 2012. Its freeware and you can find it on almost all download sites.
Simple to use, works perfect!!!
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