Root Windows Folder (Duplicated)

[jaycup]

I have just made a fresh install of windows XP PRo to a back up partition on my Hard Drive and have discovered that I have two 'mirror-image' folders for Windows each are 2Gb.in size and are identical and they relate to each other exactly, for instance if you move or delete a file from one it also moves or deletes from the other. I cannot delete (a Folder) as it is 'protected by windows'. One folder is named 'WINDOWS' and the other 'Windows'. I would like to solve this problem as I now want to make a Drive Image to a DVD but need to get rid of the additional 2.0Gb. of space. Never had this one before!!.

 

[bcastner]

It sounds as if you have created an NTFS junction point. Could you download the following utility, freeware, and see if it enumerates a Junction Point?

http://www.rekenwonder.com/linkmagic.htm

For your deletion of Folders issue, hold down the Shift key while deleting. See:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=243514

 

[jaycup]

Thanks, this is well worth keeping but not the answer to my problem. the two folders are inextricably linked and cannot be separated or deleted. I decided in the end to format the partition and start again and I have now re-installed Windows afresh and the problem has gone. It means starting all over again and this has meant many hours of work has been lost but it was the only way.
Thanks again for the help offered.

 

[bcastner]

They were junctioned, which can be broken.

http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/d.../en-us/fileio/fs/hard_links_and_junctions.asp

 

[jaycup]

Excuse my 'ignorance'. Very informative and whilst now too late for this occasion i have saved all necessary references for future use should the need arise. I really have learnt something and I am truly grateful for your attention and advice.