How to Organize Downloaded Files, Part 2

Recently, Infopackets Reader 'Cinnamon' asked me a question about how to organize her downloaded ZIP files. She writes:

" Is there a guide one can use in attempting to [organize] some or all of them? I'm afraid I'll remove something that I need! "

My Response:

We've been talking about archived files for the last few issues of the newsletter. Incase you've missed it: Zip files are archived files and usually contain many smaller files inside. Finding out what an archived file is (without extracting and utilizing the program) takes too long to do, so there must be a better way.

I suggested that Cinnamon change the names of her downloaded archive files to include a quick description so that the file name will have more meaning. For example a file begins downloads as: iz_setup3.exe [click save]; add in a quick description like this: --> internet zone iz_setup3.exe [click save].

Unfortunately, this doesn't fix Cinnamon's current problem and there doesn't appear to be an easy way around it (other than testing/running the executable files or searching on the Internet for the same filename).

Infopackets Reader Leo F says:

" Following your suggestion, I prefer to append the identifying words followed by the version (build) number (example: iz_setup3internetzone347.exe). If I choose to download it again in the future, I won't overwrite the original file. The files stay adjacent if I forget my naming convention from the last time as well, and make deleting old versions easy, should I choose to do so in the future. "

Pippie suggested an even deeper level of organization:

" I use a text editor to copy and paste the description of what the program does, where I downloaded it from and the date. Then I have a Download folder, with sub folders, in categories. Then I save it there under a folder name by the program, with the text file, and the downloaded file. "

Side note: I forgot to mention in the last newsletter that I also use folders to categorize my files as well. I have 1 master download file on my D drive, called "Incoming" and inside that, I have Apps, Internet, CD-Recording, Games, Virus, Movies, and Kazaa. This setup has suit me well for quite some time.

TFAN69 suggested creating a .TXT file with URL / File description and inserting it into the archive:

" If I download a .zip file, I usually create a text file with the description (often a copy and paste from the source site) and the url. I then add it to the .zip file. I call it something like 'ReadFirst.txt '. "