random folders

[#1]

Hi
In looking around my computer, I noticed in the C drive a couple of folders with what look like random names such as c286227dd8dfec1f854ec4  there doesn't appear to be anything in them, and when I accidentally copied another folder into one of them (I meant to drag it somewhere else) I couldn't get to it.  That is, I can see the folder, but can't open it or do anything with it.
What are these strange creatures?  What is their purpose?
John

[#2]

Have you got hidden files and folders selected for viewing?

[#3]

Yes I have

[#4]

Try untick Hide Protected System Files

[#5]

That doesn't make any difference.  Whether system files and folders are hidden or not, and if "Hide protected operating system files" is ticked, or not, makes no difference in terms of visibility or accessibility of these folders 
John

[#6]

Apparently It's simply a leftover log when the installer failed to clean itself after updating
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=927978

Quote

Security update package 927978 may create a log file. The package names the log file KB927978.log. The package saves the log file inside a folder. The folder has a system generated name. The folder is in the root of a system drive. The path resembles the following: C:\system generated name\KB927978.log

Given the nature of the folder generation you may need to login as an administrator to view the contants.
In the worst case if you still can't access it you may have to create a boot disk such as BartPE

[#7]

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=111047
>>Those are Windows Updates. If the updates installed, you can delete them. I had some random folders like that after installing updates and they didn't self delete.
According to that forum post they are something to do with windows updates. 

[#8]

Sounds about right, but even as administrator, I can't do anything with them.  I just get an "access denied"  message.
John

[#9]

Use brute force. I recommend an abrasive dishcloth which has been doused in paraffin. Rub the offending areas of the disk using a circular motion (the tighter, the better) and finish off with a neat brandy and a sprig of mint.

[#10]

Can you change permissions on the folders

[#11]

Tried properties and change the attributes from "read only", but access still denied, and when I go back, it's "read only" again.  I suppose I could just leave it there, but (call me OCD if you like) it just seems untidy!
John

[#12]

It's Windows.  It's supposed to be untidy 

[#13]

Quote from: hulls

Tried properties and change the attributes from "read only", but access still denied,

You can get access to them and delete them by booting in to safe mode
puddy

[#14]

Sorry puddy, I tried that, still protected, even in safe mode.
John

[#15]

Sorry I should have been clearer.
Go into properties then security and change the permissions.
You may need to add users to the permissions