System Volume Information Folder
If you've done much wandering around in Windows Explorer you might have noticed a folder called System Volume Information and wondered what purpose it serves. It's actually a part of System Restore; the tool that allows you to set points in time to roll back your computer. The System Volume Information folder is where XP stores these points and associated information that makes them accessible. If you have System Restore enabled but don't see this folder, go into [Tools] [Folder Options] [View] and click the radio button next to [Show Hidden Files and Folders] and it will be visible.
How many System Volume Information folders your computer has and where they are located depends on the settings you've selected for System Restore. For an overview of System Restore and how these interactions apply, click here.
Accessing the System Volume Information Folder
Under most circumstances there is no need to access this folder, but if you're the curious type and want to see what it contains, how you gain access depends on the XP version, file system, and whether you are part of a domain.
Windows XP Professional and Home Edition - FAT32 File System
In Windows Explorer click [Tools] [Folder Options]
Click the [View] tab, click [Show Hidden Files and Folders]
Clear [Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)] check box.
Click [Yes] on the change confirmation box and click [OK] to exit.
Double-click the System Volume Information folder to open.
Windows XP Professional using the NTFS File System on a Workgroup or Standalone Computer
In Windows Explorer click [Tools] [Folder Options]
Click the [View] tab, click [Show Hidden Files and Folders]
Clear [Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)] check box.
Click [Yes] on the change confirmation box and click [OK] to exit.
Right-click the System Volume Information folder in the root folder.
Click [Properties] and select the [Security] tab. Click [Add]
Enter the name of the user you are allowing access to the folder.
Click [OK], and then click [OK].
Double-click the System Volume Information folder to open.