Ensure surfaces are thoroughly wiped to achieve a pristine finish.
Ensure surfaces are thoroughly wiped to achieve a pristine finish.
I never liked Windows because its folders were so chaotic. Soon I’m setting up a new PC and will install Windows from the ground up. I was wondering... since at the start I’ll have no personal files on the machine, could I maybe access the hard drive and mark every file as hidden? That way all created files would belong to me and I could always find any leftover files that got deleted even after uninstalling programs. Is this a method I could use to keep things cleaner?
I’m taking a different path for a bit. I don’t like Windows either, but because the User folder was created, everything you make stays there. It keeps things tidy—documents in docs, downloads in downloads, music in music, etc. You can adjust those settings if you want, but by default it’s not messy. Program files have their own place, and the Widows folder takes care of the rest. But if you’re changing the icon or folder visibility, I’m not sure it would help much, since you shouldn’t be dealing with Program Files or the Windows directory at all. What you put there doesn’t really matter.
I’m not focusing only on Windows folders but on all initial directories. It bothers me because programs get installed there and numerous files accumulate over time, even after deleting software. I’m unsure if this affects the PC much since the system can still access hidden files and follow their paths. Would you say this approach is reasonable? I’m just a bit OCD.
It's exactly how things are. Besides switching to another operating system (they all use different folder structures for their files), there aren't many alternatives. And let alone setting up an SSD—you'd need separate folders for documents and other stuff, which just adds more complexity. It's just the way it is.
Hidden setting files don't fix problems such as leftover files after uninstall. Because programs don't always save files in a single folder, and this is beyond your control. Generally, software sets up at least two directories—one for core components and another for user preferences. Some even create more than that. The only way to manage files on Windows is through full manual control. You could try smart automation or third-party uninstallers, though these might introduce additional issues.
I think you're a very tidy person. My suggestion is to adjust your routines. Don't equate digital clutter with physical mess on your desk. It's similar to having too many folders for files—this isn't the same, but it does exist. With computers, virtual folders don't expand beyond your screen or storage space. If you want a clean system, avoid using default shortcuts to Explorer. Set up your own directory on the C drive and create a shortcut there on your desktop. Stick to that folder only.