Windows 10: Removing "Account Unknown" from all permissions

I would like to clean up the permissions across my new Windows 11 build. There are a number of "Account Unknown" in the properties under the Security tab for a great number of items. These permissions can not be deleted or modified in any way, even though I am the administrator. I have tried running as the administrator, and it does not make any difference. By eliminating these zombie account entries, I am hoping my system will behave a little better.

:)

 

Unknown account removal

In a 'permissions' dialog an attempt to remove an UNKNOWN ACCOUNT prompts that inheritance first must be disabled. Two options are offered...

1) Convert inherited permissions to explicit permissions on this object
2) Remove all inherited permissions from the object

Which should be chosen, and will other accounts be affected? Or, would it be prudent to ignore the unknown account?

This is an "Sxxx" account and does not appear in the USERS account list, nor with other normal registry accounts.

 

Account Unknown has full Security permissions on my own User - huh?

Hello glnz,

You will see "Account Unknown" for an account that is not currently available. This could be from an account you deleted that had permissions, or from an account on another computer that is not connected.

Either way, it's safe to remove any listed "Account Unknown" entries in permissions if you are sure it's for an account that will no longer need permissions for the item.

 

Remove account

I suggest you backup your personalized files first before removing the account.
To delete an account, follow these steps:

1. Press WIN + X keys and click Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu.
2. Type the following command and press Enter. Replace test with the name of your sister's account. Code: