Windows 7: Downloaded file does not appear on Desktop without F5

I have Firefox set up to save downloaded files to Desktop but newly downloaded files don't appear until the desktop is refreshed by hitting F5. Occasionally I get a similar story when deleted files don't disappear until F5 is pressed.



The more I use Windows 7, the less I understand how it can be considered a better product than Vista. Vista SP2 was working out much, much better for me. The small inconveniences in in 7 has sent usability down the pipes.

I am having the exact same problem. It fixes itself if I force quite explorer and start it again... but this is hardly a solution. I am wondering if you use CCleaner at all. I am thinking that messed with some registry setting that caused this to happen. Also if you found any solution please let me know.

This problem also affected me with Firefox (Minefield x64, actually) and with a new build (7x64 b7600) this problem is gone - but I'm using IE and my files appear without having to refresh. It occurred to me that this might be caused by either Minefield or the download add-on I was using - and not a Windows 7 problem.

Not just firefox, unraring to the desktop will do it too. I had this problem with vista too and I thought they had fixed it for seven as it didn't happen with the beta and RC releases.

OK OK I SOLVED IT! I know this sounds dumb but open up windows explorer (not internet explorer), click organize, folder and search options, view, Uncheck Always show icons never thumbnails, then hit apply to all folders. This seems to restore the desktop "folder" to its original settings.

EDIT: Not solved. OK I restarted and it is back to being broken. Apply to all folders just must restart explorer.

So do any of you use CCleaner as well? Might it have caused this with its registry cleaner?

Another satisfied customer!

Nope sorry not satisfied it did not fix it, read my post above.

nope, never use snake-oil programs like that.

Have you moved the location of your Desktop folder or set it up as a junction? I know from experience with XP that if the desktop folder is a junction, sometimes you need a refresh on the desktop to see new items.

Yes I have moved the desktop location to another drive, but I have never had this problem before on XP Vista or Windows 7... it just started about a week ago.