How can I group icons on desktop in Windows 10?

Is there away to group icons on my desktop with windows 10?
I have close on 40 icons on my desktop. They are apps and directories which I use regularly.
Some of these icons are always used in combination and I want to keep them close together.
I don't want to put them in a folder, because then I open the folder every time I want to open another one of the group.
I usually arrange the icons in these groups, but then with an update of some sort they get arrenged differently. This morning when I started they were in random groups of four.
So now I want a way to permanently group sets of icons together.
Fritz PaulAsked:
Who is Participating?

[Product update] Infrastructure Analysis Tool is now available with Business Accounts.Learn More

x
I wear a lot of hats...

"The solutions and answers provided on Experts Exchange have been extremely helpful to me over the last few years. I wear a lot of hats - Developer, Database Administrator, Help Desk, etc., so I know a lot of things but not a lot about one thing. Experts Exchange gives me answers from people who do know a lot about one thing, in a easy to use platform." -Todd S.

Don ThomsonCommented:
Just right mouse click somewhere on the Desktop where there are no icons.lick on Sort  then Type.
0
EirmanChief Operations ManagerCommented:
Not what you asked, but it may help ....

You can group items (programs or shortcuts) in custom groups in the start/taskbar.
http://winsupersite.com/windows-10/how-give-titles-windows-10-start-screen-tile-groups-better-organization
(Your Start/taskbar can be as large as your monitor)
0
EirmanChief Operations ManagerCommented:
Still checking it out ..... I think Fences will lock your desktop icons
http://www.stardock.com/products/fences/download.asp
0
Protecting & Securing Your Critical Data

Considering 93 percent of companies file for bankruptcy within 12 months of a disaster that blocked access to their data for 10 days or more, planning for the worst is just smart business. Learn how Acronis Backup integrates security at every stage

FREE DOWNLOAD
EirmanChief Operations ManagerCommented:
I have "Auto Arrange Icons" unchecked on a Win 10 PC and the grouped icons I have irregularly arranged all over the the desktop NEVER move (just like win7/xp)
0
EirmanChief Operations ManagerCommented:
Found on microsoft .....

Make sure you can see hidden files in windows explorer, then ....
Open Start and type %appdata% which will take you to appdata-Roaming
Go back to appdata and click Local
Delete IconCache.db

If you want to test it go back to the desktop and move an icon. Right click the desktop and click refresh.
=============================================================
Multiple monitors and changing resolutions can also cause the problem
==============================================================
This worked for many
http://www.softwareok.com/?seite=Freeware/DesktopOK
0

Experts Exchange Solution brought to you by

Your issues matter to us.

Facing a tech roadblock? Get the help and guidance you need from experienced professionals who care. Ask your question anytime, anywhere, with no hassle.

Start your 7-day free trial
Fritz PaulAuthor Commented:
That is sooo much info. Thanks a lot.  the %appdata% route seems to work. I also downloaded DesktopOK. I may refer back to your tips in future.
0
EirmanChief Operations ManagerCommented:
I learned quite a bit myself.
I'm going to try Fences myself when it's been updated for the upcoming anniversary edition of W10
0
It's more than this solution.Get answers and train to solve all your tech problems - anytime, anywhere.Try it for free Edge Out The Competitionfor your dream job with proven skills and certifications.Get started today Stand Outas the employee with proven skills.Start learning today for free Move Your Career Forwardwith certification training in the latest technologies.Start your trial today
Windows 10

From novice to tech pro — start learning today.