Use of WINDOWS\Prefetch folder in Windows XP Pro

[Guest]

My computer was attacked by W32.Swen.A@mm virus.
I think the virus has been removed now but I observe that there is a C:\WINDOWS\Prefetch folder
Every time I run a program (i.e. exe), an extra file (e.g. IEXPLORE.EXE-27122324.pf , CALC.EXE-02CD573A.pf ) is created in this folder
Looks like this is done by virus but I am not so sure. What is the use of this WINDOWS\Prefetch folder
Will Windows XP Pro work properly if this folder is removed ? Any suggestions or tip ?

Thanks
TIM

 

[dev]

Tim said:

My computer was attacked by W32.Swen.A@mm virus.
I think the virus has been removed now but I observe that there is a C:\WINDOWS\Prefetch folder.
Every time I run a program (i.e. exe), an extra file (e.g. IEXPLORE.EXE-27122324.pf , CALC.EXE-02CD573A.pf ) is created in this folder.
Looks like this is done by virus but I am not so sure. What is the use of this WINDOWS\Prefetch folder ?
Will Windows XP Pro work properly if this folder is removed ? Any suggestions or tip ?

Prefetch keeps track of programs used most often, for faster loading.
It's a normal XP function.

 

[billy_bunter]

dev took the time to write...:

Tim said:

IEXPLORE.EXE-27122324.pf , CALC.EXE-02CD573A.pf ) is created in this
folder.

suggestions or tip ?

Prefetch keeps track of programs used most often, for faster loading.
It's a normal XP function.

Periodically, you can delete the contents of the prefetch folder - your
machine will run slightly faster.....