A filename that prevents a file from being deleted

On win32 plattform / ntfs

[hakre]

Just asking myself if it is possible to name a file in a specific way that it's read- and wideable but can't be deleted on winXP? Any ideas?

[uncle_bob]

I doubt there is a filename that will prevent it from being deleted, but if you are using NTFS then you should be able to set the security permissions for the file or folder so it can't be deleted by certain/any user. Look under file properties -> security -> advanced -> change/edit (2k)

[g1smd]

There are certain windows files, and even folders that can't be deleted.

There are several ways that they protect them.

[bedlam]

If you can create a file or a folder with a SPACE as the last character (maybe first too, I'm not sure...), you will not be able to delete it in any simple way.

Of course you will not be able to open it either :-D

I believe I read (though I could be wrong) that Windows tries to find the filename, but truncates the space, and so can' t find/open/delete the file...

-B

[DrDoc]

...unless the filename is in quotes

[GeorgeGG]

Try making the space a ALT-255 or hex FF,
or ALT-10, line feed,
or ALT-13 carriage return etc.

But still can be deleted.

GeorgeGG

[paybacksa]

Sorry I can't be more specific, but if you create the file outside of the Windows file system using a character that is illegal for use in filenames according to the Windows file system, it can end up being what you described.

Classic example is upgrading from WinX to Win2000 without clearing the HD, and finding the NTFS file system can read but not delete a file.

Another is on a dual-boot system with Linux, where Windows can see but not delete or rename some files.

If you know the illegal characters, you could always use a DOS shell and hex edit your way to a file as well.

[bpresent]

call it iexplore.exe ;)