Cannot remove READ ONLY attribute - Windows 10 (tried everything!)

Question

I have tried everything - but still no luck.

I start Windows Explorer as Administrator

Right click on folder --> Properties --> Uncheck 'read only' --> OK  (Does not give an error but does not work either)

Right Click on folder --> Security --> Advanced --> Owners, administrators, users all showing as having 'full control'

Started DOS as Administrator

Attrib -R *.* /s

Still does not work.

Folder is C:\Inetpub (aka my local host)

I need to update and replace files in this folder and I can't.

Very Frustrating - since it is MY computer. I am the only one using it.

And Windows is restricting MY access!!!

Answer 1

Hi Tracy987,

My name is Fernando. I am an Independent Advisor. I am here to guide you with read oonly file issue.

Things you can check. If you go to properties under the security tab, what persmissions are set for system and for administrator?

Also, I am assuming you are logged in with an administrator account. Correct?

Respectfully,

Fernando Y.

Answer 2

Hi Tracy,

Read-only attribute does not have any sense for folders and does not affect file access rights. That's why it is used for Windows internal purposes since Windows 98 and Windows does not allow to change it in most cases. This is absolutely normal and cannot be changed.

If you have some problems with access to files, please create a new theme and describe a real problem. I suppose it is in access rights - you may check them at Security tab in Properties.

Answer 3

So basically, if I understand you correctly.

All it means when the Folder is 'Read Only' is that the folder cannot be deleted.

But all the files under it can be modified, erased or changed.

Right now it seems like I have access to modify my own files (although I did have problem accessing them in the past)

So I think I am OK for now.

Although I do think it is a Windows Bug. If a user is allowed to uncheck the 'Read Only' box in properties and does not get any errors.

It should take!

Thank you.

Answer 4

Hi, Tracy,

R/o for folder means the Windows have to use personalization if the folder is open. Ii does not prevent folder deleting or any access to files in this folder, modify, delete or move them.

You may surely ignore this folder's attribute completely.

Yu may write an enhancement suggestion thru Feedback Hub but no one will consider this as bug - this history is 20 years old.