Windows 2000 Quick Fixes

Some files don’t show up in folders

Windows 2000 by default doesn’t display all folders or files. Any folders and files with the Hidden attribute set do not show up. In addition, certain system files are hidden. These system files include the boot files boot.ini , ntldr , and ntdetect.com . Windows 2000 also treats some other files as system files, hiding them from view. You can configure Explorer to show hidden files as well as system protected files if needed.

Before you configure Explorer to show system protected files, however, keep in mind that accidentally deleting, moving, or replacing these files can typically prevent the system from booting or cause other widespread havoc with the system. You should only enable display of system protected files when you absolutely need to access a particular system file. Turn off visibility of system protected files after you’ve performed the needed task on the file(s).

Show hidden and system protected files

You configure visibility of hidden folders and files and system protected files through the Folder Options dialog box:

1. Open any folder window (including My Computer) and choose Tools → Folder Options.

2. Click the View tab, then select the option “Show hidden files and folders.” This makes hidden files and folders visible.

3. Deselect the option “Hide protected operating system files.” This will make the system protected files visible in Explorer. Explorer prompts you to verify that you really want to turn on visibility of system protected files. Click Yes.

4. Click OK.