File Names in Windows Explorer Changed Color

[Bob S]

After I started up my computer today (WinXP SP2, fully
updated), the names of some, but not all, files are suddenly
blue, instead of black. I can't determine any particular
pattern, except that the names of files created within the
last month generally still appear in black lettering, and
the names of files created more than a month ago (whether or
not they've been modified within the last month) may be
either in black or blue letters.

The problem is not limited to particular kinds of files,
such as word processing files. It occurs across the board.

I can't find a setting in Display Properties to account for
this. Re-booting didn't change anything.

Any idea what caused this and how to fix it?

Thanks.

 

[BR549]

After I started up my computer today (WinXP SP2, fully
updated), the names of some, but not all, files are suddenly
blue, instead of black. I can't determine any particular
pattern, except that the names of files created within the
last month generally still appear in black lettering, and
the names of files created more than a month ago (whether or
not they've been modified within the last month) may be
either in black or blue letters.

The problem is not limited to particular kinds of files,
such as word processing files. It occurs across the board.

I can't find a setting in Display Properties to account for
this. Re-booting didn't change anything.

Any idea what caused this and how to fix it?

Thanks.

The files whose names are blue have been compressed by XP. There's nothing
to fix.

 

[Bob S]

The files whose names are blue have been compressed
by XP. There's nothing to fix.

Thanks for letting me know.

After I read your message I looked up compression in the
online help, and it said that I could turn off the color by
going into Folder Options | View tab | Uncheck Show
encrypted or compressed NTFS files in color.

Even though nothing was broken, I did find the colored
lettering not easy on the eyes, so I'm glad there was a
setting to get rid of it.

Thanks again.