hidden files @folders – 3740 days old

[retiree]

Is it relatively safe to check the box to (show hidden files and folders) (VIA SETTINGS / CONTROL PANEL /FOLDERS OPTIONS) before deleting that temp folder in the windows folder, the default i think is to (not show hidden files and folders) i don't want to delete anything in that folder (temp) just because it shows (hidden files and folders) if I'm not sure its safe to delete.

THANKS RETIREE.

[Jizzy]

It is safe to check the "show hidden files and folders" checkbox, as all that does is show the hidden files and folders, without altering them. As for deleting temp crap, I would use Windows XP's Disk Cleanup utility: Start --> All Programs --> Accessories --> System Tools --> Disk Cleanup.

[retiree]

THANK YOU, but i have windows m.e. since those hidden folders may be important, should i maybe re-check the (hide files @folder) so as that they won't delete when i click to delete the temp files? if there showing ? they will be deleted along with the files that are ok to delete, and thats what worrys me. or is there nothing to worry about? just delete what ever's there??

[Jizzy]

Nope. You won't delete anything you don't select. Show them, and as long as you don't touch them, it will not hurt (for example, obviously don't delete C:\Windows). The folders themselves will not be deleted with the files, if you don't choose for them to be deleted...just use the Disk Cleanup, located in Start --> Programs --> Accessories --> System Tools --> Disk Cleanup, to deleted unnecessary temp files.

[Grogan]

Anything in c:\windows\temp is fair game for deletion. I would save work and close any open applications before doing so, but if there are files actively in use and locked by the operating system, deletion will simply fail. Alternatively, you could just use the Disk Cleanup Wizard in Start/Programs/Accessories/System Tools

As far as hiding files, I would always want to see all files and directories in a file manager. Never delete anything unless you know what it is. So I would say, show all files (and file extensions) and simply be careful what you delete.

[retiree]

thanks again, the way I'm deleting the temp folder is going to edit/ select all / file / delete. and what ever gets deleted that way is fine, i will not delete anything individually, i was under the impression that the way i was deleting would delete everything in sight and that worried me, I hope now i got it right.

thanks zack, youv'e been great to this ole timer.

[retiree]

thank you mr grogan