How do I optimize four locations for "My Download Files"?

[Guest]

I recently installed Win XP Home Edition SP 2. Previously with Win 98, I had
personal files such as "My Download Files" in two locations. Now I have
found this folder in four locations. Is this normal or can I optimize down
to two? The four locations are 1) Desktop>My Documents>My Download Files; 2)
Desktop>My Computer>Alan & Karen's Documents>My Download Files; 3) Desktop>My
Computer>Local Disk (C>My Download Files; and 4) Desktop>My Computer>Local
Disk (C>Documents and Settings>Alan H. Sato>My Documents>My Download Files.
Where should my backup files be listed and which other locations can I
safely delete?

 

[Guest]

Don't be deceived by the different locations - it's merely a sleight of hand
"trick" that Windows uses to make things more friendly for the average user.

Assuming that you only have one hard drive - then everything is in there.
In this case, all of the stuff is in the Documents and Settings folder.

Now, in this folder are 2 folders that apply to the desktop that you're
currently using. Your Desktop is composed of the desktop from your profile
and the desktop from the All Users profile. So, stuff on either desktop
folder will appear on your desktop (this is what enables programs to be
installed just once, yet be available to all users).

Next is the file structure of My Documents. You'll find My Documents
located within your user profile. If you check the All Users profile, you'll
find that the Shared Documents are located there.

Everything else is (essentially) just a shortcut to these locations. But,
since these are system files, they behave differently than other shortcuts.

I hope this clarifies the situation for you.

- John

 

[Guest]

Thanks for the clarification. Now, how do I ensure that my folder "My
Documents" and other personal folders are not shared? Also, if I were to
revise an existing file a add a new file, does it matter from which file
location I do these changes? Should I only revise or add to files in
Desktop>My Documents? Wil the changes be made in all locations? Is there a
"master" location for "My Documents"?

Thanks for your help