desktop.ini

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Two icons, with the same name, "desktop.ini" have appeared on my desktop and
when I open it, this is what the larger one shows. The smaller one has only
one entry. I assume they are shortcuts although there is no indication that
they are.

[.ShellClassInfo
]LocalizedResourceName=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-21769
IconResource=%SystemRoot%\system32\imageres.dll,-183
[LocalizedFileNames]
Spider Solitaire.lnk=@%SystemRoot%\system32\gameux.dll,-10061
FreeCell.lnk=@%SystemRoot%\system32\gameux.dll,-10055
Windows Explorer.lnk=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-22067
Windows Mail.lnk=@%ProgramFiles%\Windows Mail\WinMail.exe,-225

What I think happened is that I put a number of programmes on the task bar,
immediately to the right of the Windows logo, and perhaps this is the
information as to the location of these programmes. Are these shortcuts and,
if so, can I delete them?

As I went back to check on the items, I also found another "desktop.ini"
file in my Documents Folder - it is different from the above two. What is
the proper location of these files?


Thanks,

John Reid
Running Vista Home Premium 32 Bit on an Acer Aspire 7720 Laptop with 2 mgs
Ram

For some reason, protected system files are displayed in your folders,
including the Desktop folder. It is recommended to keep them hidden.

In Windows Explorer: Tools > Folder Options > View tab > check 'Hide
protected system files'. Apply this setting to all folders.

Charlie42

These "desktop.ini" files are a normal part of Vista. They contain
information about the folder that they are in and should not be deleted
or relocated.

You are seeing these because you have unchecked "Hide protected
operating system files (Recommended)" in Folder Options. You will just
need to check this again to not see (hide) them again. Option Two step 5
in this tutorial will show you how if needed.

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/86...s-folders.html

Shawn

Right or wrong, I have always just deleted mine. I've not noticed any ill
affects. LOL...

The chief benefit of those files is localization. If you're on an EN-US
environment, you can probably live without them.

Thanks to all who responded.

I had unchecked the "Hide protected system files" when I was trying to find
some other files. I forgot to go back and to hide the files. I did check the
"Hide Protected system files" and all of the icons have now disappeared.

Your welcome John. I'm glad to hear that you have it all sorted out
now.