Why can't I move folders back off my new SSD

Question

Why can't I move folders back off my new SSD

Anonymous

I recently installed and formatted a new SSD into my windows 11 pc it was solely for clips from games and pictures from everything to be all in one spot. Just after I had finished moving everything over I downloaded an app from the store and didn't notice I had left the download path as the backup drive, I moved the app out of there but there are two folders left over, WindowsApps and Program Files. Both are empty but trying to delete or move them out of the folder I'm told I do not have permission to perform these actions, I'm aware windows doesn't allow users complete control of everything to safe guard from deleting vital system files but these only appeared after I downloaded the app so they don't need to be here and have no way to remove them. Trying to delete the Program Files folder tells me i need to provide administrator permission to delete it which I have ( I'm the sole user and owner of the PC) once pressing continue I'm told I need permission from system and trusted installer to remove the rest.

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

Answer accepted by question author

0 additional answers

Answer 1

Hi, I am Dave, I will help you with this.

Those two folders are highly protected folders used to store the apps and games downloaded from the Microsoft Store.

If there is not a lot of data on that drive, then the best method to delete those two folders is to copy off any data from that drive, format the drive, then move your data back onto that drive.

Otherwise, use the method Shawn provides on the link below to add 'Take Ownership' to the right click men in File Explorer, then take ownership of those folders and boot Windows into Safe Mode to see if you can then delete those folders

https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-take-ownershi...

________________________________________________________

Standard Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

.