Windows 10: Remove Windows.old off external HDD - Ownership issue?

I've got a hdd out of a laptop with Windows installed on it that was replaced with an ssd. I now have it plugged into the laptop externally as a storage drive for backups with a USB adapter. I would like to delete the Windows, Windows.old and program files folders on the drive to increase space but there seems to be an ownership issue preventing me from wiping them. Why is Windows so fussy about wiping Windows folder on a non OS drive and how do I take ownership to wipe them?

:)

 

external HDD

Hi,

Usually, this problem occur due to software incompatibility or corrupted USB drivers. For us to better assist you, we would like to clarify the following:

• Have you made any recent changes on your computer prior to the issue?
• Which driver did you uninstall? Have you reinstall the driver? If yes, how did you reinstall the driver?
• Have you check if the external HDD is visible in Device Manager?

If the issue still persists after uninstalling some games, we suggest that you run the troubleshooter for hardware and devices. If you're using the latest Windows 10 version, follow these steps on how to run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter:

• Click the Start button and select the Settings
  icon.
• Choose Update & Security from the list.
• Click Troubleshoot in the left pane of the window.
• Under Find and fix other problems, select Hardware and Devices and click
  Run the troubleshooter.

We're looking forward to your reply.

 

Cannot take ownership of external HDD(permissions complications)

Yes, that is exactly the step I missed when I did it initially. Then when I tried to go back and do it again, that's when the other errors came up saying failed to enumerate objects and that the recycle bin was corrupt, then windows stopped being able to
read the drive completely. Luckily, I was able to resolve this issue a bit ago. I'll reply to the thread with my actions in a bit.

 

External HDDs

Hi i had a seagate freeagent (external) which stopped working so i bought another enclosure and the hdd kept disconnecting/reconnecting in windows 8.1, so i boht another enclosure and also the same thing. Iv tried a different hdd and all hdds work perfectly when plugged directly into sata ports on the board, are there any other steps i can try or do you think iv just been unlucky with enclosures?