Windows 7: I'm locked out of most everything

Just did a clean install of Windows 7. I have admin priveledges. My user name is William. I own this computer and I want access to all folders and files. However, I find many folders I get an access denied. What can I do to get access to everything?

It's not a good idea. The files and folders you don't have access to are protected system files. They're protected for a reason. They're not to be messed with. It is possible to turn your PC into a very expensive paperweight with 1 fatal click. (Don't ask me how I know) On a clean install, even as a standard user, you should have no issues doing day to day operations. If you insist on fouling things up, read this.
Take Ownership Shortcut

Blockie, What files are you locked out of?

Many of those files that say your not allowed to access are really pointers to folders on your computer and are mainly used by windows to maintain compatibility with older programs. Most times there are two of them, one you can get into and some that are locked.

Many files that used to be in the documents and settings folders are now in users folder so the locked directories are pointers to the users and user directories.

Rich

Doing the clean install is working OK. However, I mounted one of the images from a week ago so I could use the Windows Explorer to copy files from that old backup to my system disk. When I navigate to C: \User\William\ I get an access denied on "William". This on the mounted disk. I have no such problem on the system drive. I can access "William" with no problem. How can I gain access on the mounted disk?

You still need to take ownership, then change permissions on the folder (security in properties, I think). The NTFS permissions, were set for a specific user, and are now being blocked by Windows.

This is for XP, but see if it will help you How to take ownership of a file or a folder in Windows XP

The XP thing did not help with Windows 7.

Try Brink's Tutorial for Windows 7: Take Ownership - Allow or Prevent Users and Groups To