markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Years ago I allowed Windows to control my "Downloads" folder. Windows defaults to Downloads folder on your operating system drive (for most, C). After installing Win 7, since I have 3 internal hard drives (OS, Photo (F) & Data (E)), I decided to move my "Downloads" folder to my Data drive. This simple move (or copy to another location) has saved my "butt" many times. Here are a few incidences:
1. I have done a "clean reinstall of Windows more than a few times. In doing so, programs (apps) are not included. My "Downloads" folder contains all the install files of downloaded programs (apps). To reinstall, locate the setup(application) file and double click it. It installs in a short amount of time.
2. Occasionally, an app ceases to show up. One example is NIK filters in Photoshop. I did not have to find it online and download. I simply found it in my Downloads folder and double clicked it. Voila!! Back in few seconds.

I recommend copying or moving your Downloads folder to another location - external drive - flash drive - an internal drive other than your operating system drive (C for most people). Remember to direct downloads to that location. It may save, "your butt"!
Mark

SteveR Loc: Michigan

Conversely, Mark, on the occasion that I've had to re-do Windows, I've always been able to re-download the program from the parent company. I'm sure your way is quicker, especially if you have a ton of programs and understand how to do it, as you do. I'm not sure I do....but it sounds doable.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Thanks, Steve. It is really easy. Just open File Explorer, click on "This PC", You should see "Downloads". In it are all your downloads unless you have directed them to another location. If you right click it, you have the option to send(copy)to another the location (of your choice). Next time you download anything, you can save it to that new location. After, all your downloads are now in a location other than your C drive. So, when the occasion necessitates, you can reinstall a download, even after doing a clean install of Windows. You you may also copy it to a flash drive.
I'm happy to expound or help.
Good luck, Steve
Mark

TriX Loc: Raleigh, NC

Good advice Mark and thanks for posting. The download folder is something I keep multiple copies of and make sure it is backed up - can save a ton of time when you need to reinstall aps or the OS.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Thanks. You are my downloads folder twin.
Mark

SteveR Loc: Michigan

That's easy enough. Actually, I've been doing a full command under the command dot prompt to copy my photos to my backup drive. I guess I could do the same with the file that contains my photos. I dislike various software programs that are designed to do it for you.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

We each have our preferred methods/programs for backing up, copying, ... I use Windows for most and Acronis for backing up. I do use a variety of programs for post processing.
As long as one backs up, it does not matter how.
Mark

SteveR Loc: Michigan

I found the Acronis manual unintelligble. There were also times that I expected to be able to find individual files in the Acronis backup and was not. By backing up using the command prompt I know exactly what is happening.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

What version of Acronis did you own? If very old, the software has vastly improved. As long as your command prompt works for you, it's all you need, Steve
Mark

joehel2 Loc: Cherry Hill, NJ

Great tip, thanks for sharing it.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I have always made my own downloads folder, called Downloads (clever name, right?), and it's on my D drive - very easy to locate. My problem is that I keep all the stuff that downloads. I have 79GB, over 3,200 files, in that folder. Time for a cleanup.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Done and done. Thanks for the suggestion, Mark.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

My pleasure, Joe
Mark

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Thanks for the reply. My pleasure.
Mark

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

You made me curious, Jerry. Mine is 30 GB. Cleaning up goes on the list of "things I should, but never do".
Mark