Functional Structure

Windows operating system is structured in a hierarchical format, organizing files and directories allowing efficient navigation and management of system resources. Here is an overview of the main file system folders:

Common Directories

The following are common directories in a Windows filesystem that play crucial roles in system configuration, file storage, operational functions, and overall performance:

• C:\: The root directory of the system drive, typically where Windows is installed. Contains all files and folders essential for the operating system's operation

• C:\Windows: Contains the operating system files necessary for Windows to run. This directory includes system executables, drivers, and configurations

  • C:\Windows\System32: Contains system files, libraries, and executable files essential for the core functionalities of the Windows operating system

    • C:\Windows\System32\config: Stores the registry files that are essential for the system's configuration and settings

    • C:\Windows\System32\etc\hosts: Common file to save hostnames and IPs in Windows

  • C:\Windows\Temp: Stores temporary files created by the system and applications, which can be cleared to free up disk space

  • C:\Windows\Logs: Contains log files generated by the operating system and applications, which can be useful for troubleshooting and monitoring system events

• C:\Program Files: The default directory for installing most applications on a 64-bit Windows system. It houses application binaries and files necessary for software to function properly

  • C:\Program Files\Common Files: Shared files used by multiple programs

• C:\Program Files (x86): The default directory for 32-bit applications installed on a 64-bit Windows system, allowing compatibility with legacy software

  • C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files: Similar to the 64-bit version, contains shared files for 32-bit applications

• C:\Users: Contains user profiles for all accounts on the computer, where personal settings, files, and application data are stored

  • C:\Users\$username\Documents: The default folder for user-generated documents, such as text files, spreadsheets, and presentations

  • C:\Users\$username\Downloads: The default location for files downloaded from the internet, making it easy for users to access their downloaded content

  • C:\Users\$username\Desktop: Contains files and shortcuts that are visible on the user's desktop, providing quick access to frequently used items

  • C:\Users\$username\AppData: A hidden directory that contains application settings, configuration files, and data specific to installed programs, divided into three subfolders: Local, LocalLow, and Roaming

    • C:\Users\$username\AppData\Local: Stores data specific to applications installed for the user

    • C:\Users\$username\AppData\Roaming: Contains settings and data that can be synced across different devices for the user

• C:\ProgramData: A hidden directory that stores application data shared among all users on the system, including configuration files and settings

  • C:\ProgramData\Microsoft: Contains various Microsoft application data

• C:\Recycle Bin: A special folder where deleted files are temporarily stored, allowing users to restore items before they are permanently removed from the system

• C:\Drivers: The folder where Windows drivers are stored, allowing the operating system to communicate with hardware devices like printers, graphics cards, and network adapters

  • C:\Drivers\Backup: A subfolder where driver backups may be stored if applicable

• C:\Windows\Logs: Contains log files generated by the operating system and applications

  • C:\Windows\Logs\CBS: Contains logs related to the Component-Based Servicing