Windows 10: How to delete errant files in System Restore with stubborn permissions

I found out today that some glitch in System Restore resulted in a almost 50GB of files that can not be deleted due to permissions. I've tried a few things I googled and so far only was able to delete part of them. What's the best way to change permissions of the files in a way where I can finally delete them? It's a Windows Apps folder and the files are related to XBox Game Pass games. If you need more information let me know what you need please. Thank you.

:)

 

File permissions to delete file

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

 

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.

 

Deleted file restore software.

Shute I never thought about system restore. But its been more than a week now, don't know if I can go back that far. But even then will it put back user files?