Vanishing icons on Desktop and in Recycle Bin

[mason204]

I'm running Windows XP Pro, SP2 and am having an unusual problem.

My recycle bin appears empty but when I go into DOS, there are kinds o
files in c:\recycler. I have set all my options to show hidden files a
well as ensuring that when I delete files, they don't bypass the recycl
bin.

I tried to delete my c:\recycler folder in DOS hoping that the syste
would recreate the recycle bin but some of the files in there won'
delete, so I can't seem to get rid of the directories.

Also, I was having problems downloading and installing Quicktime.
went to an alternate computer, downloaded quicktime to a portabl
drive, then copied the file to my XP Pro machine. Although I know th
file is on the desktop, there is no icon. Same situation as i
happening with my recycle bin. Again, if I go into DOS, I can see th
file on my desktop. If I go to Start/File/Run and type in the path,
can get the program to run.

I've run every anti-virus and malware program known to man and d
believe there is no virus. Coincidentally, the problems starte
happening when I uninstalled Norton Systemworks months ago.

Any advice on fixing the problems?

Thank you

 

[Wesley Vogel]

You probably have a damaged/corrupted file in the Recycle Bin.

Run Error Checking | Reboot | Try to empty the Recycle Bin again.

1. In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the volume you want to
check, and then click Properties.
2. On the Tools tab, click Check Now.
3. Select both of these:

* Automatically fix file system errors
* Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

A message will popup.

[[The disk check could not be performed because the disk check utility needs
exclusive access to some Windows files on the disk. These files can be
accessed only by restarting Windows. Do you want to schedule this disk check
to occur the next time you restart the computer?]]

Click YES.

You have to reboot for Error-checking to run.

Then reboot.

For a peek at the chkdisk log.
Start | Run | Type: eventvwr | OK
Look in Application | Listed as Information
under Winlogon, Event 1001

Additional info here >>

Visit here...
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_qr.htm

Scroll down to:
Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In

 

[mason204]

Thanks for your advice. It took me a while to respond as I had to try
everything. My problem has not been solved. Here's what I did:

**I ran chkdsk on both drives C: and F:. I checked the log and there
were no bad sectors, nothing repaired
**I followed the information in "Kelly's Corner" which was quite
comprehensive. My big problem is the fact that Windows doesn't seem to
recognize the folder c:\recycler so I have difficulty doing anything in
windows. I do know the folder is there because I can see it in the
directory structure in DOS.
**At one point, I booted to DOS, and spent about 20 minutes deleting
all the files in C:\recycler and f:\recycler (including the recycler
folder) thinking that when I re-entered windows it would recreate new
folders (which it did).

I have a recycle bin icon on the desktop, it continually displays the
"empty bin" photo. Unlike most other posts I read, my recycle bin
never displays a "full bin" icon or gives any indication there are
files in there. The only reason I knew it was there at all was seeing
the directory listing in DOS. Of course, if I tried to modify
c:\recycler in any way in windows, it would also say that the folder
already exists or some other similar message.

As noted before, I believe my problems started after uninstalling
Norton. I used to have a Protected recycle bin and I wonder if Norton
modified some settings which I cannot seem to restore. Yes, I tried
the step where you go into properties and try to restore the recycle
bins.

Someone help, please!!!

You probably have a damaged/corrupted file in the Recycle Bin.

Run Error Checking | Reboot | Try to empty the Recycle Bin again.

1. In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the volume you want
to
check, and then click Properties.
2. On the Tools tab, click Check Now.
3. Select both of these:

* Automatically fix file system errors
* Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

A message will popup.

[[The disk check could not be performed because the disk check utility
needs
exclusive access to some Windows files on the disk. These files can be
accessed only by restarting Windows. Do you want to schedule this disk
check
to occur the next time you restart the computer?]]

Click YES.

You have to reboot for Error-checking to run.

Then reboot.

For a peek at the chkdisk log.
Start | Run | Type: eventvwr | OK
Look in Application | Listed as Information
under Winlogon, Event 1001

Additional info here

Visit here...
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_qr.htm

Scroll down to:
Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

 

[Wesley Vogel]

Usually a damaged INFO2 file is what causes a full Recycle Bin to appear
empty.

Norton. Phooey! Did you have a Norton Protected Recycle Bin?

Nprotect is part of Norton Utilities. (It replaces the default recycle
bin.) It prevents the user from accidentally deleting data from the PC and
Recycle Bin. Adds an extra layer of safety before you remove deleted files
from the Recycled Bin.

[[The third-party products that are discussed in this article are
manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes
no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding the performance or reliability
of these products.

SYMPTOMS
After you install a version of Norton AntiVirus, the Recycle Bin no longer
appears on the desktop.

CAUSE
This issue occurs because Norton AntiVirus changes the name of the Recycle
Bin to "Norton Protected Recycle Bin." Only the words "Norton Protected"
appear below the icon on the desktop because there is not sufficient space
to display the longer name.]]
From...
The Recycle Bin Does Not Appear on the Desktop After You Install Norton
AntiVirus
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/819255

Did you download and merge restorerecyclebin.reg from here?

Replace/Repair the Recycle Bin (Line 64)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Among other things restorerecyclebin.reg should fix the full and empty
icons. I would think if Norton screwed things up like it usually does,
you'd want to do this.

If you have a c:\recycler folder how can you boot to DOS? The Recycler
folder is used only on NTFS partitions. On FAT32 the RECYCLED folder is
used. DOS can not exist on NTFS.

Ignore the APPLIES TO and see if this helps...

Cannot Empty Recycle Bin or Modify Recycle Bin Properties
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/173416

Some more info, some you may already know.

Recycle Bin RECYCLER

%systemdrive%\RECYCLER\Your SID # is YOUR Recycle Bin.

This is MY SID #
S-1-5-21-1708537768-15xx36667-1202660629-1003

This is MY Recycle Bin
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-15xx36667-1202660629-1003

For me, looking in
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-15xx36667-1202660629-1003
is the same thing as me looking in the Recycle Bin on my Desktop. Both
folders contain the same deleted items.

Each hard disk or partition contains a hidden folder named Recycler. The
Recycler folder is used only on NTFS partitions. On FAT32 the RECYCLED
folder is used. The Recycler folder contains a Recycle Bin for each user
that logs on to the computer, sorted by their security identifier (SID).

Windows allocates one Recycle Bin for each partition or hard disk. If your
hard disk is partitioned, or if you have more than one hard disk in your
computer, you can specify a different size for each Recycle Bin.

When you delete a file, the complete path and file name is stored in a
hidden file called Info2.

You can configure the drives Recycle Bin Properties independently or use one
setting for all drives. Right click Recycle Bin | Properties | Global tab |
* Configure drives independently
* Use one setting for all drives
* Do not move files to the Recycle Bin
* Maximum size of Recycle Bin (percent of each drive)
* Display delete confirmation dialog

%systemdrive%\RECYCLER
With at least one folder with the SID #
for every user on the machine.

If there is only one user, then there is only one
SID # folder. That SID # folder is the Recycle Bin.

Security identifiers (SIDs) are numeric values that identify a user or
group.

This pasted in Start | Run opens the desktop.ini file....

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\desktop.ini

That is the only way I know how to find and open that particular desktop.ini
file.

Desktop.ini...

[.ShellClassInfo]
CLSID={645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}


{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} is the CLSID for the Recycle Bin.

When you delete a file, the complete path and file name is stored in a
hidden file called Info2.

This pasted in Start | Run...

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\INFO2

will open the Open With applet that you can then use to select Notepad to
open the INFO2 file if you so desire.

If I paste this into the Run command (Start | Run ) and click OK
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2
the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the list.
INFO2 opens.

Or you can do this in a command prompt...

start C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2

the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the list.
INFO2 opens.

Permissions on the C:\Recycled directory may be too restrictive.

RESOLUTION
Administrators should have ownership of the Recycled directory. To take
ownership of the directory, perform the following:

1. Log on as Administrator.
2. Using Windows Explorer, locate the directory and select
Properties/Ownership.
3. Use the option to Take Ownership of the directory.
4. Restore default permissions to the directory with the permissions option.

Default permissions:
Administrators Full Control
Creator/Owner Full Control
Everyone Change
System Full Control
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/168570


--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In

Thanks for your advice. It took me a while to respond as I had to try
everything. My problem has not been solved. Here's what I did:

**I ran chkdsk on both drives C: and F:. I checked the log and there
were no bad sectors, nothing repaired
**I followed the information in "Kelly's Corner" which was quite
comprehensive. My big problem is the fact that Windows doesn't seem to
recognize the folder c:\recycler so I have difficulty doing anything in
windows. I do know the folder is there because I can see it in the
directory structure in DOS.
**At one point, I booted to DOS, and spent about 20 minutes deleting
all the files in C:\recycler and f:\recycler (including the recycler
folder) thinking that when I re-entered windows it would recreate new
folders (which it did).

I have a recycle bin icon on the desktop, it continually displays the
"empty bin" photo. Unlike most other posts I read, my recycle bin
never displays a "full bin" icon or gives any indication there are
files in there. The only reason I knew it was there at all was seeing
the directory listing in DOS. Of course, if I tried to modify
c:\recycler in any way in windows, it would also say that the folder
already exists or some other similar message.

As noted before, I believe my problems started after uninstalling
Norton. I used to have a Protected recycle bin and I wonder if Norton
modified some settings which I cannot seem to restore. Yes, I tried
the step where you go into properties and try to restore the recycle
bins.

Someone help, please!!!

You probably have a damaged/corrupted file in the Recycle Bin.

Run Error Checking | Reboot | Try to empty the Recycle Bin again.

1. In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the volume you want
to
check, and then click Properties.
2. On the Tools tab, click Check Now.
3. Select both of these:

* Automatically fix file system errors
* Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

A message will popup.

[[The disk check could not be performed because the disk check utility
needs
exclusive access to some Windows files on the disk. These files can be
accessed only by restarting Windows. Do you want to schedule this disk
check
to occur the next time you restart the computer?]]

Click YES.

You have to reboot for Error-checking to run.

Then reboot.

For a peek at the chkdisk log.
Start | Run | Type: eventvwr | OK
Look in Application | Listed as Information
under Winlogon, Event 1001

Additional info here

Visit here...
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_qr.htm

Scroll down to:
Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

 

[mason204]

Thank you Wes, for your comprehensive reply. My problem still isn't
resolved but my replies are noted under your suggestions below...

SYMPTOMS
After you install a version of Norton AntiVirus, the Recycle Bin no
longer
appears on the desktop.

***My recycle bin is on the desktop, it hasn't disappeared..***

CAUSE
This issue occurs because Norton AntiVirus changes the name of the
Recycle
Bin to "Norton Protected Recycle Bin." Only the words "Norton
Protected"
appear below the icon on the desktop because there is not sufficient
space
to display the longer name.]]

***My recycle bin does read "Recycle Bin" under the icon.***

Did you download and merge restorerecyclebin.reg from here?

Replace/Repair the Recycle Bin (Line 64)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

***Yes, but nothing appears to have happened...?***

If you have a c:\recycler folder how can you boot to DOS? The
Recycler
folder is used only on NTFS partitions. On FAT32 the RECYCLED folder
is
used. DOS can not exist on NTFS.

***You're right. I had to boot from a CD and use the utility NTFS4DOS
in order to see my c:recycler folder. Only by bypassing windows at
startup does the directory appear.***

Cannot Empty Recycle Bin or Modify Recycle Bin Properties
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/173416

***Took a look but it didn't help....***

Some more info, some you may already know.

Recycle Bin RECYCLER

%systemdrive%\RECYCLER\Your SID # is YOUR Recycle Bin.

***Funny thing, I couldn't see a SID #. Again, by going into NTFS4DOS
(which is the only way I can see the c:\recycler directory), I did see
c:\recycler\s-1-5-~1 and s-1-5-~2 directories. Inside each one was a
desktop.ini file but no other files were visible.

Would not having a SID# cause the problem? Perhaps it's there and only
visible in Windows? If that's the case, I can't access anything in
Windows to verify this. Does that make sense?***


When you delete a file, the complete path and file name is stored in a
hidden file called Info2.

You can configure the drives Recycle Bin Properties independently or
use one
setting for all drives. Right click Recycle Bin | Properties | Global
tab |
* Configure drives independently
* Use one setting for all drives
* Do not move files to the Recycle Bin
* Maximum size of Recycle Bin (percent of each drive)
* Display delete confirmation dialog

***Took a look here. My settings were exactly as you described. My
maximum size of recycle bin was set to 10%.***

%systemdrive%\RECYCLER
With at least one folder with the SID #
for every user on the machine.

If there is only one user, then there is only one
SID # folder. That SID # folder is the Recycle Bin.

Security identifiers (SIDs) are numeric values that identify a user or
group.

This pasted in Start | Run opens the desktop.ini file....

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\desktop.ini

That is the only way I know how to find and open that particular
desktop.ini
file.

Desktop.ini...

[.ShellClassInfo]
CLSID={645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}


{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} is the CLSID for the Recycle
Bin.

When you delete a file, the complete path and file name is stored in a
hidden file called Info2.

This pasted in Start | Run...

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\INFO2

will open the Open With applet that you can then use to select Notepad
to
open the INFO2 file if you so desire.

If I paste this into the Run command (Start | Run ) and click OK
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2
the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the
list.
INFO2 opens.

Or you can do this in a command prompt...

start C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2

the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the
list.
INFO2 opens.

Permissions on the C:\Recycled directory may be too restrictive.

RESOLUTION
Administrators should have ownership of the Recycled directory. To
take
ownership of the directory, perform the following:

1. Log on as Administrator.
2. Using Windows Explorer, locate the directory and select
Properties/Ownership.
3. Use the option to Take Ownership of the directory.
4. Restore default permissions to the directory with the permissions
option.

Default permissions:
Administrators Full Control
Creator/Owner Full Control
Everyone Change
System Full Control
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/168570

***I'd love to take a look at the ownership of the recycler directory
and change the settings if necessary. However, I can't see the
directory in Windows.***


Cheryl.

 

[Wesley Vogel]

Hi Cheryl,

In line and snipped. I probably am making this more complicated and
including more info than I need to, but I see no other way. So there. ;-)
I mean that I am making a comprehensive reply.

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In

Thank you Wes, for your comprehensive reply. My problem still isn't
resolved but my replies are noted under your suggestions below...

If you have a c:\recycler folder how can you boot to DOS? The
Recycler
folder is used only on NTFS partitions. On FAT32 the RECYCLED folder
is
used. DOS can not exist on NTFS.

***You're right. I had to boot from a CD and use the utility NTFS4DOS
in order to see my c:recycler folder. Only by bypassing windows at
startup does the directory appear.***

You do not need to boot to CD or NTFS4DOS. Use the command prompt
(cmd.exe).

Start | Run | Type: cmd | Click OK

Or if you want to use only 8.3 names, use command.com
Start | Run | Type: command | Click OK

Better off using cmd.exe though. You can use both 8.3 and long names with
cmd.exe.

Command.com will generate this error:
Too many parameters -
for long names.

Or this error: Invalid directory

Some more info, some you may already know.
Recycle Bin RECYCLER
%systemdrive%\RECYCLER\Your SID # is YOUR Recycle Bin.

***Funny thing, I couldn't see a SID #. Again, by going into NTFS4DOS
(which is the only way I can see the c:\recycler directory), I did see
c:\recycler\s-1-5-~1 and s-1-5-~2 directories. Inside each one was a
desktop.ini file but no other files were visible.

INFO2 can be shown. Later on in this epic saga.

Paste the following line into Start | Run and click OK...

c:\recycler\s-1-5-~1

Paste the following line into Start | Run and click OK...

c:\recycler\s-1-5-~2

Both of those SID # folders should open, even using the 8.3 names.

The Run command (Start | Run) does not care if the folders are HIDDEN or
not, it should open them anyway.

My SID # is S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003
c:\recycler\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003 is my Recycle
Bin.
S-1-5-~1 is the 8.3 name for the long SID# above.

c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1 pasted into the Run command will open...
c:\recycler\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003

Try this.

Open a command prompt....
Start | Run | Type: cmd | Click OK |

In the command prompt, type or paste: cd c:\recycler

Hit ENTER.

The command cd c:\recycler should Change Directory to c:\recycler.

Then type or paste: DIR /S /a:dhs

Hit ENTER.

The command DIR /S /a:dhs should display all directories (folders) with
HIDDEN and SYSTEM attributes. The /S switch displays files in specified
directory and all subdirectories. The /A switch displays files with
specified attributes. The attributes specified here are D Directories, H
Hidden and S System.

You can use this command DIR /S /a:dhs /x to display the 8.3 names.

The /X switch displays the short names generated for non-8dot3 file and
folders.

Type: dir /? for dir HELP.

Example...
------------
Microsoft Windows XP [Version 5.1.2600]
(C) Copyright 1985-2001 Microsoft Corp.

C:\Documents and Settings\Wesley P. Vogel>
C:\Documents and Settings\Wesley P. Vogel>
C:\Documents and Settings\Wesley P. Vogel>cd c:\recycler

C:\RECYCLER>
C:\RECYCLER>
C:\RECYCLER>DIR /S /a:dhs
Volume in drive C is Local Disk
Volume Serial Number is 901E-9F82

Directory of C:\RECYCLER

07-Nov-05 09:18 PM <DIR> .
07-Nov-05 09:18 PM <DIR> ..
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR>
S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-
1003
0 File(s) 0 bytes

Directory of C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003

24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> .
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> ..
0 File(s) 0 bytes

Total Files Listed:
0 File(s) 0 bytes
5 Dir(s) 2,205,016,064 bytes free

C:\RECYCLER>
C:\RECYCLER>
C:\RECYCLER>DIR /S /a:dhs /x
Volume in drive C is Local Disk
Volume Serial Number is 901E-9F82

Directory of C:\RECYCLER

07-Nov-05 09:18 PM <DIR> .
07-Nov-05 09:18 PM <DIR> ..
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> S-1-5-~1
S-1-5-21-1708537768-158043666
7-1202660629-1003
0 File(s) 0 bytes

Directory of C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003

24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> .
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> ..
0 File(s) 0 bytes

Total Files Listed:
0 File(s) 0 bytes
5 Dir(s) 2,205,016,064 bytes free

C:\RECYCLER>
------------

Would not having a SID# cause the problem? Perhaps it's there and only
visible in Windows? If that's the case, I can't access anything in
Windows to verify this. Does that make sense?***

You have an SID #.

This registry key lists all of the SIDs.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\
CurrentVersion\ProfileList

To tell which user has which SID, click on each SID, look at
ProfileImagePath, the Data has the user name at the end of the path. I.e.
%SystemDrive%\Documents and Settings\Wesley P. Vogel

For example:
S-1-5-18 is systemprofile
S-1-5-19 is NT Authority/ LocalService
S-1-5-20 is NT Authority/NetworkService
S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-500 is my machine's Administrator,
%SystemDrive%\Documents and Settings\Administrator

Open the Registry Editor...
Start | Run | Type: regedit | Click OK |
Navigate to >>
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\
CurrentVersion\ProfileList

* Click the [+] to expand ProfileList
* The long versions of s-1-5-~1 and s-1-5-~2 should be listed.
* Click on s-1-5-~1 and look in the right hand pane for ProfileImagePath
%SystemDrive%\Documents and Settings\Whatever Name Here
* Click on s-1-5-~2 and look in the right hand pane for ProfileImagePath
%SystemDrive%\Documents and Settings\Whatever Name Here

c:\recycler\s-1-5-~1 and s-1-5-~2 directories.

Both recycler and s-1-5-~1 and s-1-5-~2 are HIDDEN and SYSTEM folders.

To display Hidden files and folders...

Start | Settings | Control Panel | Folder Options | View tab
Check:
Display the contents of system folders
and
Show hidden files and folders
UNCheck:
Hide extensions for known file types
and
Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)
Click Apply | Click OK

When you uncheck: Hide protected operating system files,
you will get this message...

Warning
----------
You have chosen to display protected operating system files (files labeled
System and Hidden) in Windows Explorer.These files are required to start and
run Windows. Deleting or editing them can make your computer inoperable.Are
you sure you want to display these files?
----------

Click YES.

[[Hidden files and folders will appear dimmed to indicate they are not
typical items.]]

%systemdrive%\RECYCLER
With at least one folder with the SID #
for every user on the machine.

If there is only one user, then there is only one
SID # folder. That SID # folder is the Recycle Bin.

Security identifiers (SIDs) are numeric values that identify a user or
group.

When you delete a file, the complete path and file name is stored in a
hidden file called Info2.

If I paste this into the Run command (Start | Run ) and click OK
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2
the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the
list.
INFO2 opens.

If I paste this into the Run command (Start | Run ) and click OK
c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1\info2
the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the
list.
My INFO2 opens.

Or you can do this in a command prompt...
start C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\info2
the Open With applet comes up.
Select Notepad and click OK or just double click on Notepad from the
list.
INFO2 opens.

This also works in a command prompt...
start c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1\info2

Permissions on the C:\Recycled directory may be too restrictive.

RESOLUTION
Administrators should have ownership of the Recycled directory. To
take
ownership of the directory, perform the following:

1. Log on as Administrator.
2. Using Windows Explorer, locate the directory and select
Properties/Ownership.
3. Use the option to Take Ownership of the directory.
4. Restore default permissions to the directory with the permissions
option.

Default permissions:
Administrators Full Control
Creator/Owner Full Control
Everyone Change
System Full Control
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/168570

***I'd love to take a look at the ownership of the recycler directory
and change the settings if necessary. However, I can't see the
directory in Windows.***

To display Hidden files and folders above should help.

cd c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1

DIR /S /a:hs

Will show the Desktop.ini file in c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1.

Example.
----------------
Microsoft Windows XP [Version 5.1.2600]
(C) Copyright 1985-2001 Microsoft Corp.

C:\>cd c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1>DIR /S /a:hs
Volume in drive C is Local Disk
Volume Serial Number is 901E-9F82

Directory of C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1

24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> .
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM <DIR> ..
24-Jan-07 10:19 AM 65 desktop.ini
1 File(s) 65 bytes

Total Files Listed:
1 File(s) 65 bytes
2 Dir(s) 2,204,884,992 bytes free

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1>cd c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1>
----------------

attrib /S info2 will find all info2 files.

cd c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1

DIR /S /a:ha

Will list the info2 file in c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1.

Example.
----------------
Microsoft Windows XP [Version 5.1.2600]
(C) Copyright 1985-2001 Microsoft Corp.

C:\>attrib /S info2
A H C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-1708537768-1580436667-1202660629-1003\INFO2

C:\>cd c:\recycler\S-1-5-~1

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1>DIR /S /a:ha
Volume in drive C is Local Disk
Volume Serial Number is 901E-9F82

Directory of C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1

24-Jan-07 10:19 AM 20 INFO2
1 File(s) 20 bytes

Total Files Listed:
1 File(s) 20 bytes
0 Dir(s) 2,204,635,136 bytes free

C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1>

 

[mason204]

Hi there.

Thanks to your directions, I'm now able to see the expanded file name
and get my SID #s.

I wanted to see the c:\recycler directory and files in Windows so
could work with them so I followed your directions below:

TO DISPLAY HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS...

START | SETTINGS | CONTROL PANEL | FOLDER OPTIONS | VIEW TAB
CHECK:
DISPLAY THE CONTENTS OF SYSTEM FOLDERS
AND
SHOW HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS
UNCHECK:
HIDE EXTENSIONS FOR KNOWN FILE TYPES
AND
HIDE PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES (RECOMMENDED)
CLICK APPLY | CLICK OK

WHEN YOU UNCHECK: HIDE PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES,
YOU WILL GET THIS MESSAGE...

WARNING
----------
YOU HAVE CHOSEN TO DISPLAY PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES (FILE
LABELED
SYSTEM AND HIDDEN) IN WINDOWS EXPLORER.THESE FILES ARE REQUIRED T
START AND
RUN WINDOWS. DELETING OR EDITING THEM CAN MAKE YOUR COMPUTE
INOPERABLE.ARE
YOU SURE YOU WANT TO DISPLAY THESE FILES?
----------

CLICK YES.

[[HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS WILL APPEAR DIMMED TO INDICATE THEY ARE NOT
TYPICAL ITEMS.]]

Your steps were very clear but, unfortunately, after applying th
changes (most of which I'd already done) the directory/files are stil
hidden in Windows.

Not only that, but after trying to open the info2 file, using bot
Start|Run and the cmd prompt with appropriate switches, there doesn'
appear to be an info2 file. I keep getting the message "File no
found".

I suppose without an info2 file, that would explain why I can't se
files in my recycle bin. Is it hidden so well that I can't see i
also...?? I'd love to believe that if I can recreate the info2 file,
might have my problem solved....

Thanks again for your continued help here...

 

[Wesley Vogel]

Been using Change Case in MS Word? ;-)

Do you have Administrator rights?

I suppose without an info2 file, that would explain why I can't see
files in my recycle bin.

Windows *should* create a new info2 if it gets deleted.

Make double sure that both info2 files are indeed gone.

Open a command prompt...
Type c:\recycler\s-1-5-~1 and then press ENTER.
Type ATTRIB -r -s -h info2 and then press ENTER.
Type DEL INFO2 and then press ENTER.

Type c:\recycler\s-1-5-~2 and then press ENTER.
Type ATTRIB -r -s -h info2 and then press ENTER.
Type DEL INFO2 and then press ENTER.

Reboot.

Aso visit here...
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_qr.htm

Scroll down to:
Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems

Or Ctrl + F for: Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems

I am about out of ideas.

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In

Hi there.

Thanks to your directions, I'm now able to see the expanded file names
and get my SID #s.

I wanted to see the c:\recycler directory and files in Windows so I
could work with them so I followed your directions below:

TO DISPLAY HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS...

START | SETTINGS | CONTROL PANEL | FOLDER OPTIONS | VIEW TAB
CHECK:
DISPLAY THE CONTENTS OF SYSTEM FOLDERS
AND
SHOW HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS
UNCHECK:
HIDE EXTENSIONS FOR KNOWN FILE TYPES
AND
HIDE PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES (RECOMMENDED)
CLICK APPLY | CLICK OK

WHEN YOU UNCHECK: HIDE PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES,
YOU WILL GET THIS MESSAGE...

WARNING
----------
YOU HAVE CHOSEN TO DISPLAY PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES (FILES
LABELED
SYSTEM AND HIDDEN) IN WINDOWS EXPLORER.THESE FILES ARE REQUIRED TO
START AND
RUN WINDOWS. DELETING OR EDITING THEM CAN MAKE YOUR COMPUTER
INOPERABLE.ARE
YOU SURE YOU WANT TO DISPLAY THESE FILES?
----------

CLICK YES.

[[HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS WILL APPEAR DIMMED TO INDICATE THEY ARE NOT
TYPICAL ITEMS.]]

Your steps were very clear but, unfortunately, after applying the
changes (most of which I'd already done) the directory/files are still
hidden in Windows.

Not only that, but after trying to open the info2 file, using both
Start|Run and the cmd prompt with appropriate switches, there doesn't
appear to be an info2 file. I keep getting the message "File not
found".

I suppose without an info2 file, that would explain why I can't see
files in my recycle bin. Is it hidden so well that I can't see it
also...?? I'd love to believe that if I can recreate the info2 file, I
might have my problem solved....

Thanks again for your continued help here....

 

[mason204]

Thanks for your help, Wes.

I think this one's a lost cause...

I did the following:

OPEN A COMMAND PROMPT...
TYPE C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE ATTRIB -R -S -H INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE DEL INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.

TYPE C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE ATTRIB -R -S -H INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE DEL INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.

REBOOT.

...but I couldn't get past ATTRIB -r -s -h info2. Kept getting the
message "file not found". The only file in the directory was
desktop.ini. I've rebooted several times but, contrary to what
everyone says, my computer will not recreate the info2 file at startup.
I do suspect that if the file were there, my problems would be solved.

I checked Kelly's korner again but the solution was to do what you
noted above. If the computer won't recreate the info2 file, there's
nothing more I can do.

Thanks again for your help.

Cheryl.

 

[Wesley Vogel]

Cheryl,

regsvr32 /i shell32 checks and sets between 4,000 and 6,000 registry
entries.

Type into Start | Run and click OK..

regsvr32 /i shell32

You should get a message saying it succeeded. Then reboot.

I have absolutely no idea if this will help. But it can't hurt. I thought
of this yesterday.

Try creating a .txt file in C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1 and C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~2
with Notepad.
Change the name to INFO2 with no extension.

OPEN A COMMAND PROMPT...
TYPE CD C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~1 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE ATTRIB +R +S +H INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.

TYPE CD C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-~2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.
TYPE ATTRIB +R +S +H INFO2 AND THEN PRESS ENTER.

ATTRIB +R +S +H INFO2 should add the Read-only, System and Hidden attributes
to INFO2.

Like I said, I have no idea if that will help anything or not. But it can't
hoit. ;-)

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In

 

[mason204]

Thanks again....

The bad news....it didn't work.

The good news...I was able to create a text file with no .txt extension
and it did let me save it into both directories suggested below. I then
added the read-only, system and hidden attributes, which the computer
also did just fine.

My guess is that if I could figure out what was in the info2 file and
recreate it exactly, I'd be in business.

It was a good try, though.

Cheryl.

 

[Wesley Vogel]

My guess is that if I could figure out what was in the info2 file and

recreate it exactly, I'd be in business.

Ah crap, I forgot that part. I was so excited about my idea that I couldn't
see the forest for the trees. ;-(

--
Hope this helps. Let us know.

Wes
MS-MVP Windows Shell/User

In