Directory Question

[Computer_User]

Hello.

Just Curious. When would you want to install or put something in the C:\..... rather that C:\Program Files\......

Hope the question makes since because I have always been curious what is the difference is if any or is it just preference.

Thanks
Computer_User

[Cricket]

You mean in the root directory? Why would you want to install anything there?

Cricket

[Computer_User]

Yes, the root directory. Thats why I want to know. Is there a reason why something would need to be installed there or do you just install everything under Program Files. The main thing that sparked this was a thread I read below:

http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=104450

"Create a folder for HijackThis in the root folder of your hard drive so it can make proper backups

example

C:/HJT/
C:/hijackthis/"

He mentioned making backups. What does he mean?

Thanks
Computer_User

[Matt_Smi]

Good question, all that is in my root directory is the Documents and Settings folder, Program Files folder, Windows folder, WUTemp folder (which I think is used for windows updates and can be safely deleted) and some Dell folder. I would think that you would want as little as possible in there, and you want to save everything within some folder in there. I have Hijack This in my program files folder, by backups he means whenever you “fix” something with Hijack This it creates a backup. So if you accidentally delete something you wanted/needed you can restore it. Like I said I have Hijack This in my Program Files and it creates backups fine in there, I have even restored a few things I “fixed” and it restored them fine. I don’t really see why it would need to be in the root folder, I really don’t think it makes a difference as long as you put Hijack This in its own folder somewhere that it can easily be found at.

[bailey]

I normally create now folders there for called copy, and use it for anything I may need, like downloads to save before installing

[Cricket]

Oh, I see...I think the poster suggested that the Hijack This! folder be placed in the root because it makes it easier to find the folder later if the Hijack This! backups have to be used. Some people have a hard time locating saved files and don't understand the Windows directory system. I've seen computers where the root has literally hundreds of personal folders and there is no organization whatsoever...but at least the folders are in alphabetical order and the owner can find what he's looking for somewhat easily.

Cricket