Overcome Access Denied Files And Folders
Sometimes you come across an 'access denied' message when attempting to access a file or folder on your pc. When this happens you need to take ownership of the file or folder in order for you to obtain access.
Before you start you must be logged onto your computer using and account that has Adnimistrative privileges and also, if you are using Windows XP Professional you should disable Simple File Sharing.
If you are using Windows XP Home you will need to boot into Safe Mode and then log on using an account with administrative rights. If you don't boot to Safe Mode in XP Home you will be unable to see the security tab
To take ownership of a Folder proceed as follows:
1. Right Click on the Folder
2. Select Properties from the drop down menu
3. In the Properties window click on the Security tab
4. If a Security message appears then click OK
5. Next click Advanced and click on the Owner tab
6. A name list will now appear
7. Click your name or that of Administrator if you are logged on as Administrator
8. If you should wish to take ownership of the full contents of the folder then click the Replace Owner on sub-containers and objects check box
9. Now click OK
10. A message will now appear stating: "You do not have permission to read the contents of directory folder name. Do you want to replace the directory permissions with permissions granting you Full Control?" "All permissions will be replaced if you press Yes."
11. Press Yes
12. Finally click OK and then re-apply and security setting etc that you want for the folder.
If you need to take control of a File then proceed as follows:
1. Right Click on the Folder
2. Select Properties from the drop down menu
3. In the Properties window click on the Security tab
4. If a Security message appears then click OK
5. Next click Advanced and click on the Owner tab
6. A name list will now appear
7. Click the Administrator name or group and then click OK
8. Now click Add
9. In the Enter the object names to select list type the user or group account you want to give access to the file, i.e., Administrator
10. Next click OK
11. The Group or User name list now appears
12. Click on the account you want to use and then click on the permissions you want to assign
13. Finally Click OK
