Windows desktop.ini files are used to customize the look and behavior of a Windows computer. They are typically located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. On some systems, there may also be a Desktop.ini file located in the C:\Users<username>\AppData\Roaming.microsoft\windows\desktop folder. The two desktop.ini files on Windows Desktops are used to share the same settings between them.
If you have ever had hidden system files set to display on your Windows system, then you have likely noticed a ‘matching’ pair of desktop.ini files on your desktop. Why are there two of them? Today’s SuperUser Q&A post has the answers to a confused reader’s question.
Today’s Question & Answer session comes to us courtesy of SuperUser—a subdivision of Stack Exchange, a community-driven grouping of Q&A web sites.
The Question
SuperUser reader Reza Mamun wants to know why there are two identically named desktop.ini files on his Windows desktop:
Why are there two identically named desktop.ini files on his Windows desktop?
I do not think it is possible to keep two identically named files in the same directory. Is this some type of malware or anything that could be harmful to my computer?
The Answer
SuperUser contributor Daniel B has the answer for us:
Have something to add to the explanation? Sound off in the comments. Want to read more answers from other tech-savvy Stack Exchange users? Check out the full discussion thread here.
There is nothing malware-based about this, this is perfectly normal behavior.
By default, they contain information on where to get the icon and localized folder name. On regular folders, where the “Customize” tab is available in their properties, these settings are stored in desktop.ini too. Here is more (albeit old) information.
