Regularly disappearing icons from desktop (XP Pro)

[Donno934]

Icons disappear from my desktop about every month or so, then I have to go looking around in ‘my computer’ and drag’n’drop them back. Anyone know a permanent way to stop them from disappearing to begin with…like maybe disable whatever is causing it? Thanks.

[Rustys]

Sounds like the Desktop Cleanup is running in the background.

Right Click on the and empty spot on the Desktop
Select Properties
Select the Desktop Tab
Click the Customize Desktop button
Take the checkmark out of Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard Every 60 Days

See if that helps at all.

[Donno934]

Sounds like the Desktop Cleanup is running in the background.

Right Click on the and empty spot on the Desktop
Select Properties
Select the Desktop Tab
Click the Customize Desktop button
Take the checkmark out of Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard Every 60 Days

See if that helps at

Unfortunately the Desktop Cleanup Wizard box was already unchecked, so I guess this means it will not be an easy fix. Whatever is causing it seems to have my browser icons on the top of its hit list, though it does disappear others too.

[PeterOz]

It’s a problem with explorer.exe
But how to repair?
If you create a new user and login under that name does the same happen?

[Rustys]

Does anyone else have access to that system and or user?

Is it just the desktop icons or is the Start Menu missing as well?

Complete specs including make and model of the power supply unit would be helpful.

[Rustys]

Download MiniToolBox and save the file to the Desktop. Right click on the file and select Run as Admin

Close the browser and run the tool, check the following options.

Select all

Click on Go.

Post the contents of the file called MTB.txt or attach the file to your next post

[Rustys]

Abandoned thread