Windows 10: Require SYSTEM permission to delete this file

So I have having issues with Windows defender sucking up my RAM. I was attempting to remedy this issue but every time I go to try to do anything that requires administrator permission I get told that I need system permission to do it. I am logged in on an Administrator account. When I go to change the security permissions of the file or folder that I am trying to work with everything is grayed out and I am unable to change any options. Any ideas would help.

:)

 

System Permission required

Hi Peter,

The message that you've encountered when deleting the USERS folder can be due to a permission set on it. To change the permission of the affected folder, follow these steps:

• Right click the the parent folder.
• Select Properties.
• Select the Security tab.
• Click Edit to change the permission.
• Select the new owner, and then put a check mark in the Full
  control box.
• Click Apply, then OK.
• Once you're done, the folder can now be deleted.

Let us know should you need further assistance.

 

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:

Code:

icacls "C:" /t /c /q /RESET

This command restores permissions to default for all files contained within C:\ quietly.

Followed by this command once completed:

Code:

Code:

icacls "c:\" /t /c /q Administrators:f

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.