1-3.2.7 1-3.2.8
When working with files, you may occasionally encounter a problem accessing, using, or finding a file. Following are some ways to identify problems and resolve issues:
Use a standard naming convention when saving files. Try to ensure each file name is unique and do not overwrite any files unless you are sure you do not need the original version. Try to adhere to any file management standards that have been set so others can find files and folders easily. For instance, if you are working with several files saved on your hard drive, on completion move the files to the appropriate folders on the network so that others can access them.
If you display the file extensions or file types with the file names, be careful not to change these extensions or, if you rename the file, be careful to type the file extension correctly.
Also when renaming files, keep in mind the characters you cannot use.
When moving files, be careful in selecting the appropriate file. You may want to use a method other than dragging to prevent accidentally moving something that should not be moved.
When you need a file on a portable storage device such as a memory card, consider copying it from the hard drive to the storage device. This ensures that you have a copy of the original as well as one on the storage device in case you lose the portable device or it does not work.
Always delete files to the Recycle Bin if there is a possibility you may need them at a later date. This may also include copying a file from a network drive to your hard drive, which will then move the file into the Recycle Bin if you delete it at a later date.
Carefully read any error messages Windows displays about files before closing that message. This will help identify what could be causing problems with accessing that file. For example, if you cannot access a file, or if you can only view the list of files in that location but cannot open them, read the message to determine if the file exists. If the message indicates the file no longer exists in this location, perform a search for the file to see if it was moved or renamed.
Usi n g Win d o w s 7
do not need or use. Then uninstall any application programs you no longer use. Be very careful with this option and choose only those application programs you recognize. Do not uninstall a program if you do not recognize the program name; always check with a technical specialist before attempting any further action.
Be very careful when using passwords with confidential or sensitive files; ensure you choose a password that is logical but not easy to guess. You will see an error message if an incorrect password is entered.
If you cannot make changes to a file, it is likely the file has been set to read-only status. Depending on how this attribute was set, you can turn it off by de-selecting it in the file’s properties. Some programs provide the ability to apply this feature to files (such as PDF files); if that is the case, you will not be able to change this attribute without having a password or using the correct program. A file set as read-only usually indicates this when you try to open it.
There is no absolute method to prevent your files from being corrupted. Corruption can occur due to hardware failure, power surges, software or hardware incompatibilities, software issues, or viruses. If the error message indicates the file may be corrupted, try opening the file on another computer to see if you can duplicate the message. It may be a problem with the hardware and not the actual file. For instance, if you can open a file from a USB memory key on another system, it may be that the USB port on your system is not working correctly.
Hidden files can display onscreen when you change the options for the folders. Be very careful when using this option and consider changing these files back to hidden status once you have completed the necessary actions, such as backing them up.
A message similar to the following means Windows cannot find a program on your system that will automatically accept or open this file, perhaps because you do not have the software installed:
In most cases, choose another program that is already installed on your system to try and open this file. If you are unsure which program to use, check with your network administrator or a technical specialist prior to selecting a program in this dialog box.
Usi n g Win d o w s 7
Summary
In this lesson, you looked at how to delete files to the Recycle Bin and how to restore deleted files. You also looked at some ways to help resolve problems you may have with files. You should now be familiar with:
deleting files or folders
what the Recycle Bin is
restoring files from the Recycle Bin
emptying the Recycle Bin
identifying some common problems with accessing files
Review Questions
1. The Recycle Bin is a temporary storage area for files and folders that have been deleted from the hard drive.
a. True b. False
2. When you empty the Recycle Bin, you can still restore these files or folders.
a. True b. False
3. Always be careful when renaming a file that displays a file type or file extension to ensure you do not accidentally change the file to become unrecognizable to a program in Windows.
a. True b. False
4. How can corruption of a file occur?
a. Virus
b. Hardware Failure c. Power Surges
d. Software Issues e. Any of the above f. b or c
5. An error message indicating the system cannot associate the file with a program means you do not have a software program that can open that file type.
a. True b. False