Can I hide files or programs on my computer?

Infopackets Reader Marty T. write s:

" Dear Dennis,

I have a bunch of young kids, and they like to compute, play games, etc. Is there any way I can dumb down the PC so they can't wipe out the file system, lose/delete critical files and have their own private/personal workspace? Is there something really easy to use for the inexperienced? "

My Answer:

I did some scouring and found a program to hide programs on your desktop and start menu. The program is called Quick Hide, and it serves two purposes:

" First, you can use it as a Boss Key program to instantly hide any non-work activities you may be engaged in during office hours. Secondly, you can use it to hide application to free up space on your taskbar or even hide the desktop and taskbar. All this is accessible from a keyboard shortcut. Also, the added bonus is an option to hard lock your computer with password protection so when you're away, your work will not be seen. " (Source: cronosoft.com)

For Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME users:

http://www.cronosoft.com/download/qhw/index.htm

And for Windows XP users:

http://www.cronosoft.com/download/qhwxp/index.htm