Any computer forensics people out there? How do you find a folder when the search feature can't find it? The folder must be on the disk. When I attempt to create a new folder, with the same name, the OS disallows it - because a folder with that name already exists. This issue ( and others) started after I manipulated the hidden folders, on the local disk c:, in Windows Explorer.

In Windows Explorer use Tools>Folder Otpions to display hidden fiiles and folders.

Scott: Your answer didn't help at all.
I'll rephrase the question. I lost all the files and folders, in My Documents. I'm attempting to regain those that were not backed up. When I search for a folder, its not there. When I create a new folder, with the same name as the lost folder, a message appears that this folder name already exists. So, why doesn't a search find it? I caused the problem. In Windows Explorer, I highlighted Local Disk (C:). The right side of the screen displays a caution. These folders are hidden, because fooling with them can upset the OS. I did it anyway, and lost all the info in My Documents. So, is there anyway to retrieve my info, before I reinstall the OS (there are also other issues that weren't fixed, when I ran repair from the Windows XP Pro CD)

Yes, by default, when you open the C drive it displays that caution instead of the file and folder list. I've elected to show those files and never had a problem. I'm not sure exactly what you did there, but the data should still be there.

Can you explain exactly what you did?

With the hidden files now shown, in the right hand pane, I intended to open the "Documents and Settings" folder by double clicking on it. Instead, I inadvertently drug this icon over the icon below it (Liberty Basic) and released the mouse button.

That would have done nothing. It is not possible to move the Document & Settings folder. If you try and drag & drop the folder elsewhere it gives you a warning.

What Scott told you is correct. Doing that will show any hidden folders in you're my Documents folder. If upon opening the folder the files still aren't shown - then they really aren't there. How did you lose all these files in the first place?

On a quick note, when doing a search expand the advanced options and ensure that "Search subfolders", "Search hidden files & folders" and "Search System folders" are checked to ensure you are not missing anything in the search.

Did you look in the Liberty Basic folder for it? I would have thought, like LT that it couldn't be dragged and dropped (it can be moved by a complex process involving editing the Registry). But who knows. Even if it was moved, if you go to My Documents you should see everything there.