Here are some frequently asked questions about invisible files, invisible folders, and Ghost Hunter. You can always find the most recent FAQ for Ghost Hunter at: http://www.mb-software.net/ghost_hunter/
What are invisible files and why are they on my computer?
Invisible files are one way Mac OS tries to hide the confusing and complex inner works of you Mac from you. Information that your computer needs but would be confusing for users is generally stored in invisible files. Also many applications create invisible files. One way shareware applications know if you have used their demo before is by using invisible files. Many times a demo application will put an invisible file in your Preference Folder. Then when the demo expires and you download the same application again it will know that your trial period is up.
Why should I delete, move, or change the visibilty of a invisible file or folder?
Invisible files can sometimes sit idle on your computer for years and just waste space. That old demo game you tried that was a piece of junk, it could have a invisible file sitting on your computer. So why keep it, delete it! How about that smart program that knows you have already used your trial period, try and find an invisible file it created, delete it, and you have a new extended trial period! How about that folder of things you want no one to find, make it invisible and its much harder to find. Need to fully rebuild your desktop, delete the entire thing with Ghost Hunter! Something stuck in the temporary items folder, move it with Ghost Hunter! These are just a few possible reasons you might use Ghost Hunter out of the tons of possibilities.
How do I know if I need an invisible file and is deleting them safe?
This is a tricky question to answer. Generally the only way you can find out if you need an invisible file is by looking at the modification date and what application created it. If it is a file from an application that you no longer use, delete it. Another way is if the modification date is months ago, then chances are you probably don’t still need it. Ghost Hunter can’t tell you if you need it but it can bring information to you that can help you decide.
Now, “Is deleting invisible files safe?” is a question I get all the time. Generally it is safe. Most invisible files like preferences will rebuild to their default if deleted. So if it is important, the application that needs it will probably revert to default settings and recreate the file. If you are really worried about what will happen then don’t empty the trash after you use Ghost Hunter for a while and see if you see any strange things happen (When you delete something with Ghost Hunter it sends it to the Trash) .The good news is I have never heard of anyone doing any serious damage to there computer by messing with invisible files. Actually, the worst story I have ever heard is about someone who just lost a few settings and had to reset them. So, don’t be sweating over the keyboard trying to decide what to do.
How does Ghost Hunter delete files?
The method Ghost Hunter uses is simple. It just unlocks the file, makes it visible, and sends it to the Trash. Simple, huh.
How often should I use Ghost Hunter?
This is another tricky question to answer. It really depends on how often you download shareware or play with new software. If so maybe on a monthly basis. Ghost Hunter isn’t a utility that is used every day, its more of a specialized tool that is great for troubleshooting and specific operations. So if you not a avid shareware user then you can push Ghost Hunter into your utilities folder and keep it for those special purposes.
Have a question that you think should be in the FAQ? Send it to support@mb-software.net
