After performing a Windows backup (Windows 7 Ultimate), the desktop.ini file suddenly appears on my desktop. I have been deleting it each time it comes up, as I cannot see any purpose for any .ini file, and since it was not there before, why should it be there now? I like my desktop clean, so having this file show up irks me. FW

I like my desktop clean, so having this file show up irks me.FW This is a required system file. If you delete it then it will be automatically recreated after restart or logout/login.This file is set to 'Hidden'. If you do not wish to see it on Desktop then please alter settings in Folder Options to not display 'Hidden files and folders' and to 'Hide protected operating system files'. It is best practiceto only enable viewing hidden files and folders when need exists to work with them:* Enable viewing for duration of relevent task* Disable viewing again for continuance of normal operations.Cheers

HiIts probably there because you have show hidden files enabled or hide hidden protected systemfiles disabledin folder view. If you disable show hiddenfiles then it should disappear from the desktop view but it is still there of course but not visable.malc

OK. I was of the impression that versions of Windows later than 2K didn't use .ini files anymore. FW

It is caused if we unchecked the option "Hide protected operating system files" in Folder Options. It is a system file which will be recreated automatically. So just feel free to leave it there.

It is caused if we unchecked the option "Hide protected operating system files" in Folder Options. My previous answer has been edited to correct the information provided. Thank you for clarifying :)