Windows 10: Don't have permission to delete a file

HelloI've downloaded a pdf which I want to delete now.When I try to delete it del / shift + del / options->delete no action is happening.When I try to delete it through the powershell as administrator I get a message that I don't have permission for this operation.I searched online for several solutions Add permission, add an administrator account to delete it from it etc..I was thinking that an application may be using the file and blocking me from deleting it, so I tried to search for the file in the process monitor but no solution have been poped up.I saw a solution online to add t

:)

 

File permissions to delete file

I am trying this, but it's taking a very long time.

 

File permissions to delete file

You can try the steps below

1. Right click the file to that you don’t have permission to access. Vlick Properties.
2. Go to Security tab and select Edit.
3. Select Add button
4. Type Everyone then select Check Names. Click OK to save changes.
5. you will be back in the previous window, under Group or users names, choose Everyone then check mark Full control.
you can refer more: Fix: You dont currently have permission to access this folder in Windows 10

 

File permissions to delete file

Windows is extremely confusing in its permissions and file ownership.*Sad

If Taking Ownership of the files does not work, then the ACL and permissions are misconfigured.

Permissions precedes the ownership, you can have ownership but incorrect permissions in accordance with the ACL Access Control Lists (Windows).

Microsoft - How Permissions Work

I suggest that you open powershell (Search > type powershell > Right click > run as admin) and execute this command:

Code:

This command restores permissions to default for all files contained within C:\ quietly.

Followed by this command once completed:

Code:

This command restores full permissions to the Administrators on the computer, which I presume you are an Administrator.

And reboot the computer, and finally attempt to delete the file after attempting to retake ownership.

If that does not work, then I suggest using a third party utility known as UnlockIT:
Downloads - UnLock IT

And download, install. Ensure you select customized installation.

Right click the folder that contains the files or the files individually that you would like to delete, and follow as here:






Then this should delete all files you right clicked upon after restarting the system.

You should not run into issues regarding permissions after this, and if you do, post again and I'll look into it.

Side note: often times malware tends to hijack a system and fluff itself in permissions that benefit itself.