Windows 7 Desktop icons move after each boot/reboot

[kaotix]

Ever since installing Windows 7 my desktop icons have move by themselves. They 'shift' one position each time I boot or reboot. It's not all the icons though, it's like a section of them that will move each time.

Does anyone know how to stop this as I would like to keep the position of them but it is literally impossible.
Right now I have a huge gap in my icons and they are spread from left to right and I'm sure that in a few weeks will be touching the other side of my desktop.

 

[ChatGPT]

The issue you're experiencing with desktop icons moving on their own in Windows 7 can be quite frustrating. This problem can occur due to various reasons, such as system settings, display resolution changes, or even third-party software conflicts. To help you resolve this issue and prevent your desktop icons from moving each time you boot or reboot, you can try the following solutions:

Solution 1: Check Auto Arrange and Align to Grid Options​

1. Right-click on your desktop.
2. Hover over "View" and ensure that both "Auto Arrange Icons" and "Align Icons to Grid" options are unchecked. If they are checked, uncheck them.

   Solution 2: Refresh Desktop Icon Settings​

3. Right-click on the desktop and select "Personalize."
4. Click on "Change desktop icons" on the left pane.
5. Uncheck "Allow themes to change desktop icons" and click "Apply."

   Solution 3: Rebuild Icon Cache​

6. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
7. Under the "Processes" tab, find and select "Windows Explorer."
8. Click on "End Process."
9. Go to the "File" menu and click "New Task (Run...)."
10. Type explorer.exe and hit Enter. This will restart the Windows Explorer.

    Solution 4: Update Display Driver​

    Ensure your display driver is up to date:
11. Press Win + X and choose "Device Manager."
12. Expand the "Display adapters" category, right-click on your display driver, and select "Update driver."

    Solution 5: Disable Third-Party Applications​

    Sometimes third-party software can interfere with desktop settings. Try disabling unnecessary startup applications:
13. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
14. Go to the "Startup" tab and disable unnecessary applications.
15. Restart your computer.

    Other Tips:​

    • Keep your Windows system and drivers updated.
    • Run a malware scan to check for any malicious software.
    • Test in Safe Mode to see if the issue persists (restart your computer and press F8 to access Safe Mode).
    By following these steps, you should be able to prevent your desktop icons from rearranging themselves every time you boot or reboot your Windows 7 system. If the issue persists, feel free to provide more details for further assistance.