Member Avatar for clarky1983

Hi Guys,

I recently had a problem with my computer and had to do a good old system restore. Though this sorted out my software problem, it has created a really irritating problem - my computer still works but it is frustrating me no end!! Here is my predicament:

When restoring, I must ahve skipped the 'computer name' section or typed in a different name. Now the 'my documents' section is now clean, and my desktop is missing a vast number of shortcuts! All the files are located in the old user desktop and 'my documents' - located somewhere else. This probably doesn't sound too bad to most but it's really frustrating having to trawl into the depths of my computer to find my photos and music.

I want to know, is there a quick fix for this - I'm struggling to think of any way round it. Am I being thick?? I don't think I can just log on as a different user either - I've already tried that!

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by caperjack

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In this thread reported that after a restore the desktop and My Documents looked empty while the real files live in an older user folder. correctly pointed out copying or making shortcuts as simple fixes; copying will work but is slow for 40–50 GB and shortcuts don’t solve app path issues (iTunes, etc.).

A practical low-effort fix is to create directory junctions (transparent folder links) so Windows and applications keep seeing the original paths without moving the data. On Vista/7/10 use the built-in mklink; on older XP use Sysinternals Junction. Basic workflow: log on as an administrator, rename the empty target folder, then create a junction that points the expected folder to the old-profile folder. Example commands (replace placeholders):

-- Vista/7/10 (elevated CMD)
ren "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop" "Desktop.old"
mklink /J "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop" "D:\old_profile_backup\Desktop"

-- XP (download Junction and run as admin)
junction "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop" "D:\old_profile_backup\Desktop"

Read the docs: mklink command and Junction (Sysinternals).

iTunes note: back up the iTunes folder (the iTunes Library.itl file) before any changes. If a junction preserves the original paths, iTunes will keep finding tracks. If files are moved instead, change iTunes’ Media folder (Preferences > Advanced) and use File > Library > Organize Library > Consolidate to rebuild (this copies files, so it may not be ideal for large libraries).

Advanced alternative: repoint the Windows profile in the registry under HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList by changing ProfileImagePath (backup the registry first). After any move or link operation, verify and, if necessary, correct NTFS ownership/permissions so the account has full access.

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Member Avatar for caperjack

why not just copy and paste the files to where windows wants to look for them .ie:C:\Documents and Settings\yourname\My Documents.
and you did a windows repair install ,not a system restore!

Member Avatar for clarky1983

I did think about that but then I have got a lot of files to copy over - aroudn 40/50 gb - plus once I've moverd my music, iTunes won't be able to find it (because it's rubbish).

Member Avatar for caperjack

I did think about that but then I have got a lot of files to copy over - aroudn 40/50 gb - plus once I've moverd my music, iTunes won't be able to find it (because it's rubbish).

i guess you could make a short cut on you desktop and direct it to the folder were the files are now located !
or maybe someone who mad the same mistake you have made, will have a fix for you ,sorry

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