Hello All, As a result of installing the new external HD: - I've been cleaning up the main HD: - Filing docs into folders and subfolders - Deleting files that are not needed - Then copying or cuting and pasting onto the new external HD Please keep in mind that I am working with a Windows 98SE operating system. I've just noticed that *most* data files, on the main HD, have new icons and the file attributes have changed. For a couple of examples: - The usual JPEG icon now looks like a .txt file icon (lined notebook page, spiral rings at the top) with an ink pen. The file extension is still JPG, but most files have are read only, when I look at the properties. - The usual Word.doc icon now appears as a light blue square with a ? mark in the lower right corner. These files have also been changed to read only, when I look at the properties. - I have more examples, if needed. Does anyone have any clues as to *WHY*, the above, has happened? The only other things I have done, within the past few days, is (1) I attached the new external drive and (2) Over the past weekend, I defragged the main HD. Does anyone have any ideas as to what I should do next ... to *FIX* the icons and attributes? Thank you, Becky PS This computer holds several thousand documents and photos representing about 5 years of genealogy research.