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Space Hound 4 - [ About Protected Files]

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About Protected Files

In Windows 2000 and Windows XP, Windows File Protection prevents the replacement of protected system files such as .sys, .dll, .ocx, .ttf, .fon, and .exe files. Windows File Protection runs in the background and protects all files installed by the Windows Setup program.

Windows File Protection detects attempts by other programs to replace or move a protected system file. Windows File Protection checks the file's digital signature to determine if the new file is the correct Microsoft version. If the file is not the correct version, Windows File Protection either replaces the file from the backup stored in the Dllcache folder or from the Windows CD. If Windows File Protection cannot locate the appropriate file, it prompts you for the location. Windows File Protection also writes an event to the event log, noting the file replacement attempt.

By default, Windows File Protection is always enabled and allows Windows digitally signed files to replace existing files. Currently, signed files are distributed through Windows Service Packs, Hotfix distributions, Operating system upgrades, Windows Update, and Windows Device Manager/Class Installer.

A major feature of Space Hound 4 is the ability to alert you when you mark one of the protected files for deletion.  Anytime you load the Pending Deletes List, it will check to insure that none of the Pending Delete files is under Windows File Protection.  See About File Delete Cautions.