Just used scandisc and found i have a very large number of hidden file, what are these and can they be deleted if so how do i do this.

I think this is one of those 'If you have to ask the question, you shouldn't be thinking of deleting the files' questions. :)

Seriously, some hidden files CAN be deleted, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you're very sure that you know what you're doing.

Some operating system files are hidden to keep them out of harm's way, although some viruses and Trojans also hide themselves.

Assuming you've run an up to date virus scan and nothing's showing up, I'd leave them be.

Joe

incidently for all you paranoid types, there is a hidden folder / file that stores EVERY website detail youve ever been on, and you can only get to it in dos

Originally posted by melthebell
incidently for all you paranoid types, there is a hidden folder / file that stores EVERY website detail youve ever been on, and you can only get to it in dos

A regular run with CrapCleaner will empty this for you.

thats a relief:thumbsup:

Originally posted by cgksheff
A regular run with CrapCleaner will empty this for you.
nah im sure its a folder NO windows cleaner can get to, you cant even access it in windows


its the following
type C:\WINDOWS\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\XIPJVWBB\ into a dos prompt to access

use

cd to get to it (remember temporary internet files is tempor~1 in dos), then type deltree content.ie5 to delete it and its contents


n0085 please dont use deltree :)

Originally posted by melthebell
nah im sure its a folder NO windows cleaner can get to, you cant even access it in windows

Why on earth should you choose to doubt a good bit of advice.

You don't even know that the file is called "index.dat".

And CrapCleaner will delete it for you. Windows will create it again so you have to delete at regular intervals like anything else.

Download CrapCleaner here (http://www.ccleaner.com/).

Originally posted by melthebell

its the following
type C:\WINDOWS\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\XIPJVWBB\ into a dos prompt to access


Actually, you can also access it from certain 'thumbs' programs as well, such as ThumbsPlus. There're several 'XHPOEK' folders though, not just one. Takes a while to delete everything ;)

Originally posted by melthebell
nah im sure its a folder NO windows cleaner can get to, you cant even access it in windows


its the following
type C:\WINDOWS\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\XIPJVWBB\ into a dos prompt to access

use

cd to get to it (remember temporary internet files is tempor~1 in dos), then type deltree content.ie5 to delete it and its contents


n0085 please dont use deltree :)

*gets the shivers*, an IE5 user giving IT advice.

i dont use IE :)

i use firefox, nowhere did i say i did use IE