.automaticdestinations-ms — Automatic Destinations Log
Microsoft · 2006
This file stores shortcuts for application jump lists in Windows, offering quick access to recent files and tasks.
Key Features
- Stores jump list data for Windows applications.
- Enables quick access to recent files and tasks.
- Managed automatically by the Windows operating system.
- Enhances user productivity by providing shortcuts.
Best For
- Windows users wanting faster access to their frequently used applications and files.
- Developers looking to integrate custom actions into their application's jump list.
- Streamlining workflow by providing direct links to tasks and documents.
Less Ideal For
- Storing actual application data or program executables.
- Cross-platform compatibility or use on non-Windows operating systems.
- Manual editing or modification by end-users for general purposes.
- Archiving or long-term data storage.
Common Use Cases
- Quickly accessing recently opened documents from an application.
- Launching specific tasks or functions of a program directly from the taskbar.
- Personalizing the user experience by customizing application shortcuts.
- Reducing the number of clicks required to perform common actions.
How to Open It
- This file is managed by Windows and typically does not require manual opening by users.
- To see the jump lists, right-click on application icons in the taskbar or Start menu.
- If troubleshooting, advanced users might examine related system logs or use specialized Windows debugging tools, but direct opening is not intended.
- Deleting or modifying this file can lead to jump lists not functioning correctly.
What is a .automaticdestinations-ms file?
The .automaticdestinations-ms file is a system file used by Windows to store information about jump lists for applications. Jump lists provide quick access to frequently used files and tasks associated with a program, appearing when you right-click an application icon in the taskbar or Start menu. This file helps Windows manage and display these personalized shortcuts efficiently. It is automatically generated and updated by the operating system, so users typically do not need to interact with it directly.
Programs That Open .automaticdestinations-ms Files
| Platform | Program | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Windows File Explorer | Free | Official |
| Windows Taskbar | Free | Official |
Common Problems with .automaticdestinations-ms Files
Frequently Asked Questions
No, these are binary files and will appear as unreadable characters in a text editor. They are meant to be interpreted by the Windows operating system.
While you can delete them, it's generally not recommended as it will remove the jump list history for affected applications. Windows will recreate them, but you'll lose your custom shortcuts until they are rebuilt.
If you move or rename an application, its associated .automaticdestinations-ms files may become invalid, and the jump lists might need to be rebuilt for the relocated application.
Technical Details
These files are binary in nature and are part of the Windows Shell's jump list feature. They store serialized data representing the destinations (files, tasks, etc.) that appear in context menus for application shortcuts. The exact structure is proprietary to Microsoft and is managed internally by the Windows operating system.