Thumbs.db files in Windows XP

I got a question from one of the blog reader with request to clarify the need for the thumbs.db files, which could be found in all directories of the hard drive, where pictures are present. Reader complained that he is annoyed by these unneeded files, and he is deleted them all the time, but they always come back.

So, why do our computer need these files, and can we get rid of them?

Thumbs.db is a cache file, collecting data on the thumbnail pictures in a directory, where it is located. The file can significantly speed up the showing of thumbnails when you are viewing a folder in Thumbnail view.
However, if you do not use option of viewing Thumbnail view to show your files, you may disable this option in Windows, and delete all existing cache files. This might save you some hard drive space as well.

To turn this feature off, perform the following simple operational steps:

1. Open My Computer ® Tools ® Folder Options ®View Tab.
2. Place a check in the option "Do not cache thumbnails" and click Ok.

To remove the thumbs.db files from your hard drive:

1. Start ® Search ® Click on All Files and Folders.
2. Type the following in the section called "all or part of the file name": thumbs.db.
3. In the Look in box, make sure Local Hard Drives are chosen.
4. Click Search.
5. A long list of thumbs.db files should appear, click on Edit ® Select All.
6. Click on File, and choose Delete.
7. Close the Search Results window.

Bye-bye, thumbs.db files…