Control Panel Folder Options Icon Missing

Question

Recently I noticed that the 'Folder Options' icon was missing from my Control Panel (Win XP Pro). I have been unable to find a way to replace it. I've searched the messages on this board and on the Microsoft Knowledgebase and have not found a solution.   I'm thinking a re-install of Win XP Pro may be the only way to restore the icon.   If anyone has an easier solution I'd appreciate hearing about it.

msil217 · Answer

Are you using 'Classic View'??? It shows for me.

schroedl · Answer

I have switched to 'Classic View' - still not showing. Forgot to add to my original post that when I add the 'Folder Options' icon to the tool bar in Control Panel I can click on the icon but nothing happens when I do except the icon indicates it has been clicked - no other results. Thanks for the quick response.

Mary G · Answer

Switch back to XP view instead of Classic and click on Appearance and Themes. Is Folder Options there? It is also available in Windows Explorer, Tools.

schroedl · Answer

I've looked in Appearance and Themes, Windows Explorer, Tools without success. The only place I can find Folder Options is where you can add an icon to the toolbars. However, after doing that the icon doesn't produce anything when clicked except show that it was clicked.

Since the MS Knowledgebase doesn't have any information it looks like I'll have to pay for this one by re-installing Win XP Pro. Unless, that is, someone smarter than I has a solution.

Denny Denham · Answer

schroedl,

I have been unable to find the file name for Folder Options but it appears that the file is corrupted or missing. If so, go to Start|Run, enter sfc /scannow and click OK. Let System File Checker replace the file if it is in fact missing or broken.

sparkenh · Answer

go here if you are still looking for a fix.

mombodog · Answer

try this

You will find this field in the problem computer at the following registry address: [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]

set the DWORD "NoFolderOptions" to 0 ....reboot and there you go the problem is GONE!!!!.

Message Edited by mombodog on 07-21-200602:41 PM

fudgieguys · Answer

That sounds scary to me if the enduser is not familiar with the regedit. That really bothers me to let endusers even know that exists.

Denny Denham · Answer

fudgieguys,

The link that sparkenh provided includes a link to a .reg file from Kelly's Korner which accomplishes that registry modification as well as setting the value of NoBrowserOptions to zero at HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Restrictions.

Given the performance (or lack thereof) of Folder Options when it is added to the toolbar in Control Panel, I seriously doubt that the registry is the problem.

schroedl · Answer

Thanks to all who responded to my call for help. Especially "sparkenh" who provided a link where I found Doug Knox's "Windows XP Security Console". That utility fixed the problem with about four clicks!

I had to make a quick trip out of town and didn't have time to look at the utility until I got back. Hence the delay in posting this status report.

I've put that utility in my bag of tricks in case I have another "mystery" to solve in the future. Since learning about the "Windows XP Security Console" I've talked to two other people who have used it and swear by its ability to fix things. One of those is the owner of the local Radio Shack who builds and sells computers. He says it is one of the best tools he has in his arsenal.

Thanks again to all. This forum is one of the best for great people who are willing to help others with their computer problems.

Windows General

Control Panel Folder Options Icon Missing

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