In a WinXp/SP3 system that I inherited, I have done my utmost to eradicate all trace of the previous owner - and that MAY be why I now have a situation where I am denied access to TXT files stored close to the root [two subfolders down from C:\]. So I cannot read them, but oddly enough I can run EXE files stored in those same locations. Trying to take ownership of them results in needing to take a step I can not take, because the option is missing, namely "Replace owner on subcontainers and objects" is MISSING from the Owner's tab of Advanced Security Settings of such an access-denied file. How can I get access to reading those text files ? Basty
Sebastian You haven’t divulged if you’re running the Home or Professional version of XP?
This is the way it operates for the two versions:
HOME
Boot the computer to Safe Mode (start tapping F8 when you switch on), choose an OS and your Account. Right-click the folder, click Properties > Security Tab > then OK on any security message that appears. Click Advanced > Owner Tab. In the Name list, click your user name, or click Administrator if you are logged in as Administrator. Put a tick in ‘Replace owner on subcontainers and objects’ > OK, then click Yes. Restart the computer in Normal Mode.PROFESSIONAL
To take ownership in XP Pro you must firstly turn off simple file sharing via Folder Options > View Tab > Advanced Settings section and click to clear the Use simple file sharing box.Now right-click the folder, click Properties > Security Tab > then OK on any security message that appears. Click Advanced > Owner Tab. In the Name list, click your user name, or click Administrator if you are logged in as Administrator. Put a tick in ‘Replace owner on subcontainers and objects’ > OK, then click Yes.
message edited by BurrWalnut