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Win 7 Folder Permissions

I've searched but can't find an answer, so any help is appreciated.

I was running Win7 Pro x86 on a notebook. I bought a new notebook with Win7 Pro x64 installed. I created a user through the setup, same as on my prior notebook.

After I installed all the MS updates, I installed some software that I was running on my other pc. With Win7 x64, even though the folder permissions look identical to my other notebook, I can't write to a folder. I get the "you need to provide administrator permissions to copy to this folder". I'm pretty sure I can fix this but before I do, I'd like to understand what is happening.

My account is a member of the Administrators group. The folder is owned by SYSTEM, same as on the other machine. SYSTEM and Administrators have full control. So, why doesn't my administrator account have full control? Thanks and Merry Christmas.
Answer
Answer
Windows 7 intentionally protects the Program Files and Program Files (x86) folders.   This is a function of UAC.   Being an administrator does not override this protection.  It can be accessed by turning off UAC (not advisable to leave off).

In earlier Windows versions it was common for programs to save data to the program folder.  This was a poor practice for a number of reasons.   In Windows  7 the ProgramData folder is intended to be used for this purpose.  It is clear that the program you're talking about is not designed for Windows 7 compatibility.   Windows Vista and Windows 7 7have a built in mechanism that sometimes allows such software to work.  It may relocate the data file to a virtualized location and treat it as if it were located in the program folder.  This is actuated during the program installation installation (and would not come into play through copying a program).
See http://support.microsoft.com/kb/927387?wa=wsignin1.0
for more information if interested.

I advise you to disregard the dangerous advice of Ravinath P to change the ownership and access rights for the Program Files (x86) folder.  This would undermine security and might cause problems in the long term.  At most you might temporarily turn off UAC, do your copy, and then re-enable it, but it's doubtful the software will work correctly.






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Last updated April 23, 2019 Views 412 Applies to: