Solved Administrator privilege

[Retiredbill]

I'm trying to change a folder name as it contains a bunch of unused files and I want to change the name and not delete it until I have run my apps to be sure it doesn't contain any useful files. When I try to change, it says that I need administrator privilege and won't allow me to change. I am the only one using the computer and I can easily add software, delete software and make numerous changes. I can open software that requires administrator privileges such as some malware programs. How can I change the folder name?

 

[andrew129260]

Where is the folder located?
What settings are UAC set to?

 

[Retiredbill]

When I upgraded to a new computer and went to Win 7, I put all me old X(86) under my new X(86) folder and labeled it as x(86)old. I recently ran a compare program and compared the 2 X(86) folders in order to eliminate all identical file in the old folder. In the process, the compare app removed the old from the title and I want to replace it and I cannot.

The UAC settings is "default - notify me only when programs try to make changes to my computer".

Bill

 

[Retiredbill]

Additional info. I checked properties and found that the folder and all files were "read only" I changed it and I was informed that I needed administrator privileges I said to continue and it proceeded to change all files and folders which took some time. When I checked again the folder and files were read only. I copied the folder to another location and have the same problem. However, I can delete the folder so I must have the proper privileges. Does this help?

 

[andrew129260]

Okay, I understand now. This happens when the the old folder (which was part of your old install) is attached to a user account that no longer exists.
You can verify this by looking at the security tab on the folder.
More then likely you will see a account listed there with question marks. You can click the account and hit remove if you want, or add your account here and take ownership this way.
You will need to take ownership (assigning the files back to this user account) of the files again so that you can rename and or modify them. To take ownership, follow this here http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1911-take-ownership-shortcut.html

 

[Retiredbill]

I downloaded the file you suggested and it WORKED!! Thank you very much. I learned a good lesson today.

Bill

 

[andrew129260]

No problem. I also usually try to explain to people the reason for why it works instead of here download this. I hope with my explanation you were able to understand why it happened in the first place, and why it worked.
You can remove the take ownership menu context item if you would like found in the same tutorial.

Please mark this thread as solved. Glad you got it working!