This is a repost of noteworthy information. It came up several months ago, but no one remembers where I put it (and do not want to take the time to look for it). That, and I do not keep posting lists of things I have done in the past.
We all want to uninstall everything Windows doesn't completely need to run optimally. Problem is, some programs you don't want taking up space are hidden. They're next to impossible to find, much less remove.
Don't worry, because there is a Windows tweak that'll help you immediately. It is very easy to do, but do not attempt this change on my recommendation. I can't pay to get your PC fixed if you screw it up.
To unhide "hidden" applications:
- Navigate to C:\WINDOWS\inf
- Open the sysoc.inf file in Notepad or another plain text editor. If you can't find the inf directory, it's probably hidden. Unhide it.
- Click Tools and choose Folder Options.
- Under View, enable Show Hidden Files & Folders.
- In sysoc.inf, look for the section called "components" in XP or "old base components" in 2000. What looks like a bunch of gibberish is actually pretty easy to read. You'll see a component name, followed by an equals sign, followed by a list of parameters separated by commas.
For example: Games=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,games.inf,HIDE,7
- The deletion: the "HIDE" between the two last commas indicates a hidden component. Remove "HIDE" to unhide the component.
For example:Games=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,games.inf,,7
- Unhide any component you want.
- Save the file.
- Reopen the Windows Component Wizard to see your new Add/Remove options!
As I said before, this is an easy change. It will not be necessary for 96% of Windows users. It will be needed if you want to be a super-geek (like me)!
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