Microsoft 6.x Backup Doesn't Back Up Empty Subdirectories (106124)

SYMPTOMS

Microsoft Backup for Windows and Microsoft Backup for MS-DOS do not back up or restore empty subdirectories during partial backups whether you select an empty subdirectory or a group of directories that includes both an empty subdirectory and populated subdirectories.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, do one of the following:

You can back up and restore an empty subdirectory if you back up the entire source drive's contents by selecting All Files in the Backup From box. -or-
You can back up a partial group of subdirectories and files by selecting the Restore Empty Directories and Prompt Before Creating Directories options after choosing the Options button on the Restore screen. However, be aware that you will be prompted for each unwanted subdirectory from the entire source disk.

MORE INFORMATION

Normally, when you select a directory in Backup for MS-DOS, the selected directory appears with an arrow beside it, indicating that the directory contains files and will be backed up. However, an empty subdirectory selected in Backup for MS-DOS appears without an arrow.

If you select an empty subdirectory in Backup for Windows, a black square appears beside it, which is the same symbol that appears when you select a populated directory.

A partial backup of drives cannot restore empty subdirectories; empty subdirectories can only be restored with full backups.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in MS-DOS versions 6.0 and 6.2. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.