Windows 7: Desktop functionality

Is there a way to sort a group of desktop icons? I want to sort the default and program icons while leaving user created folders alone.

You don't want to group them into their own folder?

Why having user folders on the desktop? Anyways...
You might want to look at this:
Fences - Free software downloads and software reviews - CNET Download.com

Fences™ Download - By Stardock - Clean up your desktop clutter

-DG

You may want to consider using a Toolbar. Then you have a clean desktop, the icons are sorted and they are easily accessible anyhow.
Toolbars - How to Use in Windows 7 and Vista

Both great suggestions, SledgeDG and whs. I use Fences exclusively for this purpose, and it works very well. But creating a Desktop Toolbar is perhaps even simpler, because Fences can be a little tricky to learn to maneuver your way around.

I totally agree, Imperfect. Fences can be somewhat tricky until you grasp/embrace the concept.
So Rocket Dock etc is clearly the easier solution.
I personally don't like docks (too much "Mac" for my taste so I use either Fences
or, if I want my desktop all clean the App Launcher V3 desktop gadget
and/or the free version of the Tray Commander

-DG

SledgeDG, That's great. I was looking for a /7 version of AppLauncher for a while but did not find it. Have used it a lot in Vista.

Right I used it ever since I found it for my vista (I lived right through the "birthing pains" of v2.x so to say
But I can't imagine my desktop without it anymore.
BTW If you ever happen to use it to its full capacity, there is no problem in starting a second instance which then keeps its own links. But I think in that case it's better to add Folders (for instance 1 for portable apps, 1 for GFX relatred stuff, 1 for games etc. haven't reached full capacity yet
Only thing I noticed so far: the drag/drop of files to be copied in those folders is a bit quirky. So I use the Link on the bottom "Click here to open the folder" and use explorer for those operations.

-DG

You could consider a prefix?eg
Pcoraldraw: PWord. And, in another group FMyin: Fwife, then arrange them alphebetically<?>