18 October 2007:
Disable Automatic Cleanup of Your Desktop
To keep your desktop free of clutter, Windows XP offers to automatically relocate any shortcuts that haven’t been used in quite a while. If you are satisfied with the layout of your desktop and don’t want it changed, then you should disable the Desktop Cleanup Wizard, like this:
1. Right-click in the empty space on your desktop.
2. Select Properties.
3. A window opens. Click the Desktop tab.
4. Click the Customize Desktop button located in the lower-left corner.
5. Remove the checkmark from the Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard Every 60 days box.
6. Click the OK button.