Importance

• Modifying or deleting a file(s) contained in your System 32 folder could seriously disrupt or even shut down your computer's operational capacity. If for some reason you find that you absolutely need to delete a file contained in the System 32 folder, be sure to create a backup copy of that file before you actually delete it.
  
  

Restoration

• The System Restore feature in Windows XP can be used to correct some of the issues you may encounter with files in your System 32 folder. If you encounter a problem with a System 32 file, such as a virus, before you contemplate deleting this file you can use System Restore to try to rectify the problem. Your Windows operating system takes daily snapshots of your system files and settings and saves them in another file called a "restore point." You can turn back the clock and restore your computer to an earlier configuration of your system files and settings by using system restore to reset your computer to an earlier restore point. To open System Restore, click "Start," go to "Programs" (or "All Programs"), "Accessories," "System Tools," then click "System Restore."
  
  

Files

• Some of the operating system files contained in the Windows XP System 32 folder include registry files and event logs, which are contained in the System 32 "Config" subfolder; language files, which are contained in the System 32 "Ime" subfolder; Windows backup files, which are contained in the System 32 "Dllcache" subfolder; group policy files; and System Restore files, which are contained in the System 32 "Restore" subfolder.
  
  

Location

• The Windows XP System 32 folder is located in the "Windows" folder on your computer's hard drive. If your folder options are set to hide your system's hidden files and folders, you may not be able to view some of the files contained in your System 32 folder. To configure your folder options to reveal your system's hidden files or folders, open "My Computer," go to the "Tools" menu and select "Folder Options." Click on the "View" tab in the Folder Options properties box. In the Hidden Files and Folder section, select "Show hidden files and folders." Click "Apply," then click "OK.
  
  

Additional

• There is also a System 32 folder located in the "I386" folder on your Windows CD. This System 32 folder contains the compressed form of your Windows XP start-up files. If you ever need to replace a System 32 file on your computer's hard drive, you can extract the needed file from the I386 folder on your Windows operating system CD.