Should I delete an unknown thumbs data base file from my computer?

Question

I checked copilot randomly. It does not apply to this question. A thumbs.db file recently showed up in my downloads file on my laptop. It's listed as: Name-Thumbs Type-Data Base File Compressed Size-49 KB Password-No Size-69 KB Ratio-30% Date Modified-12/29/1899 7:00 PM ??? I cannot open it and the date created isn't possible. When I try to open it says: you are attempting to open a file type of 'System file' (.db) these files are used by the operating system and by various programs. Editing or modifying them could damage you system. Show apps: Asks me how do I want to open this file? With a list of apps, Asus Web Storage is highlighted on top and I haven't installed it or use it. Should I delete this file?

Answer 1

Hey Victoria Thumbs. db files are hidden Windows system files generated in the same directory of each folder on the system. These files are used to cache the thumbnail images that represent the contents within the folders when Windows Explorer is set to the thumbnails or filmstrip view. If you want to delete the folder, you should be able to do that by disabling thumbnails first. In File explorer, click on View tab > Options. In the resulting window, click the View tab and then check "Always show icons, never thumbnails". Apply and OK and you should now be able to delete the folder. Regards Bill

Answer 2

The "thumbs.db" file is a hidden Windows system file generated in the same directory of each folder on the system. These files are used to cache the thumbnail images that represent the contents within the folders when Windows Explorer is set to the thumbnails or filmstrip view.

If you want to delete the folder containing the "thumbs.db" file, you should first disable thumbnails. Here are the steps to do that:

1. Open File Explorer and click on the "View" tab.
2. Click on "Options" and then select the "View" tab in the resulting window.
3. Check the option "Always show icons, never thumbnails".
4. Click "Apply" and then "OK".

After doing this, you should be able to delete the folder containing the "thumbs.db" file