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Access denied to the “My Documents and Settings” folder

 

I can't open the “My documents and settings” folder, it says I don't have permission.  I've tried to change the security settings to allow me full control, but despite being an administrator I still 'don't have permission'.  I am the only user account on the computer. No other user accounts are visible so why can't I change things on my own computer? Do you have any ideas that might help me?

 

Answer
Answer
 

The “My Documents and Settings” is not a folder used by Windows Vista.  It is what is called a junction point.  If you note, the folder itself is shaded out with a shortcut overlay.  If you have "Hide protected operating system files" unchecked, then you will see these junction points. It is intended that users have no access to these junction points.

 

In Windows Vista, the “My Documents and Settings“, has been replaced by "Users".  Each user account will then have Documents, Pictures, videos etc.  Note the "My" designation is no longer used.  These junction points exist to provide backwards compatibility for older programs that are unaware of the new folder structure in Windows Vista.  A program that is hardcoded to install files in the old Documents and Settings will be silently redirected to the new location.

Marilyn

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Last updated March 25, 2025 Views 460,900 Applies to: