Cannot Specify a Working Directory for a Windows Executable (120902)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows 95
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0
This article was previously published under Q120902

SYMPTOMS

When you set the properties of a Windows-based executable file, you cannot specify the working directory.

CAUSE

Windows 95 is designed to behave this way because the executable file must be preserved in its original format so that links assigned to it can rely on stable (unchanging) data.

RESOLUTION

If you create a link or shortcut to the original executable file, you can then specify the working directory.

MORE INFORMATION

Moving the original executable to the working directory is NOT recommended because other links may be dependent upon its current directory.

NOTE: MS-DOS-based applications use program information files (.PIFs); therefore, you can specify a working directory for them using their properties.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:8/8/2001
Keywords:KB120902
©2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.