Desktop.ini: What is it? Why does it stop copying functions?

Toggle sidebar Toggle sidebar
T

tom2u

Distinguished
Aug 26, 2010
387
4
18,785
I often move folders filled with files. I keep on getting it stopped because Microsoft deems it worthy that they ask me if I want to move some desktop.ini file (which I cannot find when doing a search in the original folder!). Is there a solution?
 
Sort by date Sort by votes
ldewitt

ldewitt

Distinguished
Sep 27, 2013
1,034
0
19,660
you can find it by enabling view of hidden files and folder, usually desktop.ini is in the C:\windows\system32 folder, and if thats the case on your PC i would highly recommend not moving any C:\windows folders around.

To enable viewing of hidden files and folders in windows 7:

Open "Computer" or any windows explorer folder

At the top below the back and forward arrows is "Organize" click it

Then go down to "folder and search options" click it

Click "View" tab

Under "Hidden FIles and Folders" make sure "show hidden files, folders, and drives" is selected then click ok
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
nukemaster

nukemaster

Titan
Nov 23, 2004
19,626
6
74,965
desktop.ini files are also used to customize what a folder looks like as well as tell Windows what kind of folder it is(all the "user" folders can have one as well as any folder you have changed the icon for).

They look something like that

Code: 
[.ShellClassInfo]
LocalizedResourceName=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-21790
InfoTip=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-12689
IconResource=%SystemRoot%\system32\imageres.dll,-108
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll
IconIndex=-237
[ViewState]
Mode=
Vid=
FolderType=Music

They can also change the name of a folder without actually changing the name of a folder(LocalizedResourceName=).
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
T

tom2u

Distinguished
Aug 26, 2010
387
4
18,785
Should have mentioned that I realize its function is to control icon appearance and the whole "show hidden files or protected operating system files in Tools, Folder Options, View).

Somehow I never see it when I view the contents of the folder or do a search.

The main problem is how to stop it from constantly interrupting what should be a very simple copying process.

 
Upvote 0 Downvote
nukemaster

nukemaster

Titan
Nov 23, 2004
19,626
6
74,965
I honestly never seem to get errors related to it(but I only have my main users folders with them).

The only thing I can recommend is to copy the folders contents and not the folder it self. So creative the folder you want to copy to and then select all(Ctrl + A) in the folder you are going to copy from. since you have hidden files and system files not showing, you should not select the desktop.ini.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page

COMPANY
RESOURCES
FOLLOW
Top Bottom