[tede]

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.

[ScottGem]

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

[tede]

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)

[ScottGem]

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?

[tede]

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.

[LTheobald]

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.

[ScottGem]

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.