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EmmettBrooks's avatar
EmmettBrooks
Iron Contributor
Jul 03, 2026

Windows 11 desktop icons automatically rearrange by themselves?

I arrange my desktop icons neatly, but after restarting or updating, Windows 11 rearranges them automatically. It’s messy every time. How to stop this?

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2 Replies

  • lenaburgs59's avatar
    lenaburgs59
    Copper Contributor
    Jul 23, 2026

    I've been on the Windows 11 Pro Insider Preview for months.  Currently on Build 26220.8764.ge_release...

    My icons are randomly all moved to my default primary screen after my screen turns off after 15 minutes.  I'm set to never go to sleep, and never hibernate.  Energy Saver is off.  This is a desktop and I want it on all the time.  

    I use "Desktop Restore" plugin to keep my icon positions saved or I'd go crazy trying to put all my icons back where they were.

    BTW there IS NO "desktop right-click menu - Auto Arrange Icons" selection.   You have to desktop right-click and THEN select View to see the option.  As you can see, I do not have Auto Arrange checked.

     

  • Jamony's avatar
    Jamony
    MCT
    Jul 03, 2026

    Hi EmmettBrooks, first check the desktop right-click menu and make sure Auto arrange icons is turned off. I’d also turn off Align icons to grid temporarily, set the layout again, then restart Explorer. If it only happens after updates or display changes, Windows may be treating the monitor layout or resolution as changed and rebuilding the icon positions.