How to fix: “Access Denied” to folders or files you should own

You try to open or delete a file or folder and get:”You don’t have permission to access this folder”.

Step 1: Take Ownership of the File/Folder

Type your username or click Advanced > Find Now → Select your user → OK

Check Replace owner on subcontainers and objects → Apply.

Step 2: Grant Full Control

Still in Properties > Security, click Edit

If your user is not listed, click Add > Advanced > Find Now and select it.

Step 3: Use Command-Line (Optional)

Open CMD as Administrator:

Replace "C:\Path\To\Folder" with your actual path.

Bonus Tips

Avoid taking ownership of system folders (like C:\Windows).
If malware has changed permissions, run a full system scan first.
You can create a “Take Ownership” context menu with a registry tweak (let me know if you want this!).

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