If you ever run across a folder with a Windows reserved name, Windows Explorer will not allow you to delete it. This can be a huge annoyance as the folder exists, yet is “invisible” to folder manipulation commands.
If you have ever run a Windows based FTP server, this is a common problem as wanna-be “hackerz” will create folders with these reserved names and upload their crap in the embedded folders. This is usually a result of having an anonymous public FTP (which you really shouldn’t do).
In order to get rid of the folders with reserved Windows names, check out this Microsoft article. I have used this information to remove reserved name folders on both Windows Server 2000 and 2003 and it works like a champ. Just make sure you type the path correctly as the files the command deletes do not get placed in the recycle bin.
Jason Faulkner is the man who brings you our daily tips. He is based in Atlanta, Georgia.
First day I was handed “the keys” to the network, boss calls up, somethings wrong, network is sluggish. Long story short our W2K web server was being used as a warez depository.
I was astounded to see folders with no names! That wouldn’t delete! That were major gigs in size.
A little Googling and deleted the folders.
Anyhoos, I would hope all of the security patches out there for W2K/2K3 eleviates the Anonmynous Logon by now!