The desktop icons on Windows 7 Professional may keep moving due to the auto-arrange or alignment settings. Adjusting these settings can resolve the issue.
If you’re a user of Windows 7 Professional, you might have experienced the frequent issue of desktop icons moving from their assigned positions. This can be highly frustrating, especially when you have to re-arrange them manually. Fortunately, the problem is usually related to the desktop auto-arrangement settings or icon alignment settings.
By adjusting these settings appropriately, you can eliminate this issue and enjoy a well-organized desktop. We’ll discuss some reasons behind the icon shifting issue and the potential solutions for it.
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Windows Auto Arrange Feature
Desktop icons moving by themselves in Windows 7 Professional can be frustrating. Fortunately, the issue is often caused by the Auto Arrange feature. This feature automatically aligns icons based on certain criteria such as name, type, and date modified.
To turn off the Auto Arrange feature, right-click on the desktop and uncheck the “Auto arrange icons” option in the View menu. This will allow you to manually move your icons around the desktop without them automatically rearranging themselves.
| What is Auto Arrange Feature? | How to Turn Off Auto Arrange Feature? |
|---|---|
| The Auto Arrange feature in Windows 7 Professional automatically aligns icons on the desktop based on certain criteria such as name, type, and date modified. | To turn off the Auto Arrange feature, right-click on the desktop and uncheck the “Auto arrange icons” option in the View menu. |
Icon Refresh Issue
Desktop icons are shortcuts to programs or applications that are placed for quick access. In Windows 7 Professional, many users face an issue where their desktop icons keep moving. This issue is known as the “Icon Refresh Issue.”
What Is Icon Refresh Issue?
Icon Refresh Issue is a problem where Desktop icons keep rearranging themselves even if the user has placed them in a specific order. This can be frustrating and cause a lot of inconvenience to the user. This issue mostly occurs due to a bug in Windows 7 Professional and can be fixed by following some steps.
How To Fix Icon Refresh Issue?
To fix the Icon Refresh Issue, the user can try various methods such as disabling the auto-arrange option, resetting the folder view settings, and clearing the cache. The user can also try using third-party software to solve the problem. However, it is recommended to take backup before trying any steps that might mess with the system setting.
By following these simple steps, users can fix the Icon Refresh Issue in Windows 7 Professional and enjoy a hassle-free desktop experience.
Third-party Applications
To understand how third-party applications cause icon movement, we need to know that some applications alter the appearance of the desktop. Any application that modifies desktop icons or temporary files may cause icon movement. These applications can corrupt your desktop, can create new icons, delete existing ones, and move icons from their original positions.
If you want to identify and remove the problematic applications causing icon movement, start by uninstalling all recently installed applications. Next, run a virus scan to check for any malware affecting the desktop. Also, check your system for any suspicious files that might be altering your desktop settings.
Frequently performing maintenance on your computer will keep it running smoothly, and this includes tracking and troubleshooting any issues with your desktop icons.
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Desktop Cleanup Wizard
Desktop icons keep moving on Windows 7 Professional due to the Desktop Cleanup Wizard. This feature automatically moves unused icons to a folder on the desktop, leading to icons’ displacement. To disable the Cleanup Wizard, follow these steps: Right-click on the desktop, click on Personalize, choose the option of “Change desktop icons” present on the left pane, uncheck the Box “Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard every 60 days,” and click on Apply and then OK.
| Desktop Cleanup Wizard: | Disable Desktop Cleanup Wizard: |
|---|---|
| The Desktop Cleanup wizard is a feature that moves unused icons to a folder to keep the desktop clean and organized. | To disable the Desktop Cleanup Wizard, right-click on the desktop, click on “Personalize,” then select “Change desktop icons” on the left pane. Uncheck the box labeled “Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard every 60 days” and click apply and OK to save changes. |
Malware And Virus Attacks
Malware and viruses can cause desktop icons to move on a Windows 7 Professional system. These attacks may occur due to multiple reasons. For instance, malware or viruses may hijack your computer and execute unauthorized actions. Additionally, malware or viruses can make the operating system unstable by modifying key system files. In some cases, malware or viruses may also corrupt system registries, resulting in strange and unpredictable behaviors, such as desktop icons moving.
If your system is experiencing issues with desktop icons movement, it’s crucial to identify and remove malware or viruses. You can use a reliable antivirus software to scan your system and remove any threats detected. Additionally, if you suspect any malicious activity on your system, you should immediately disconnect from the internet and seek assistance from a qualified professional.
| Actions to take | Examples |
|---|---|
| Install antivirus software | Norton Antivirus, McAfee Antivirus, Avast Antivirus |
| Regularly update antivirus software | Updating virus definitions and software patches |
| Scan your system regularly | Perform a full-system antivirus scan at least once a week |
| Don’t download suspicious files or software | Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources |
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Conclusion
After exploring the causes of why your desktop icons keep moving in Windows 7 Professional, it is evident that there could be many contributing factors. From unintended user modification to system glitches and even malware, the reasons can vary. However, by following the steps outlined in this post, you can identify and fix the issue plaguing your desktop icons.
Keep your system running smoothly and efficiently by staying on top of any problems that arise.