Locked files in Win XP Pro.

[djsusm]

Hello all,

I recenly ran into some trouble with my windows xp pro installation, and decided to do a fresh install of the OS. I backed up all my data onto my second harddrive, and then popped in the CD to see if I could get away with doing a new install without getting rid of all my data.

I managed to do so, and now I have a very clean install, except for the fact that all the files that were under the "Documents and settings" folders for the users that were in the old install are still there, but I can't access them or delete them. so I only have 25 gigs free on my 80 gig HD, and the only thing I have on there is the OS and some other data (~5 gig).

Is there a way for me to delete the locked/hidden files without having to reformat and re-install?

Thanks!

[Jeffbx]

Sounds like you don't have permission to those files since you're not the admin for the old installation anymore. You need to take ownership of them & give yourself rights to delete them:

You must be logged in on an account with admin rights.

Right click the locked folders & go to 'properties', then the 'security' tab. Click 'advanced', then 'owner' tab. Under 'change owner to...' pick the account you logged on with & choose OK.

Now you can go back to the security tab & grant yourself full control of the files & delete them.

[djsusm]

Thanks I'll try that!