Windows 10: Unable to move or delete files as administrator

Discus and support Unable to move or delete files as administrator in Windows 10 Software and Apps to solve the problem; I'm trying to move files I created some time ago. I am the only user on my computer, and I am the administrator. It asks me if I want to be given... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Software and Apps' started by Dave Burbage, Jul 5, 2025 at 6:47 AM.

  1. Unable to move or delete files as administrator


    I'm trying to move files I created some time ago. I am the only user on my computer, and I am the administrator. It asks me if I want to be given access and then tells me access is denied. As I created the files and have used them in the past I am extremely disturbed that I am locked out of my own work. I have tried closing session and then logging in again but I don't get the chance to log in as an administrator, even though I am the only user/administrator.

    :)
     
    Dave Burbage, Jul 5, 2025 at 6:47 AM
    #1
  2. Kem Mon Win User

    Unable to delete a file

    Hi Brent,

    There are a lot of possible reason why the issue occurs, we suggest that you access
    safe mode
    and
    delete the files there. If the same issue occur,
    reboot
    your PC and run these following
    methods of troubleshooting
    steps:

    Method 1:
    Run SFC Scan.  

    To run an
    SFC scan, follow these steps:  


    • Run
      Command Prompt as Administrator.  

    • Type
      sfc /scannow
      and hit
      Enter.   

    Method 2:
    Run DISM Tool.  

    To run
    DISM Tool, follow these steps:


    • Run
      Command Prompt as Administrator.  

    • Type the following command:  

      • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /scanhealth  

      • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth  

    NOTE:
    This might take a while to finish scanning.
    Do not cancel. 

    Method 3: Clean Boot.

    To perform a
    Clean Boot, click
    here.

    Note:
    Reset the computer back to
    Normal Mode
    once you are done with the troubleshooting by following the section
    "How to reset the computer to start normally after clean boot troubleshooting"
    from the same article.

    Let us know how it goes.

    Regards.
     
  3. Unable to Delete Directory as Administrator

    When attempting to update a program, got an error saying unable to create directory....

    Was further advised to delete the original installation folder.

    When attempting to do so, even as administrator, got message that file protected.

    Any suggestions?
     
    DouglasDrake1, Jul 5, 2025 at 6:53 AM
    #3
  4. Unable to move or delete files as administrator

    Unable to Delete Directory as Administrator

    Hello,

    Try taking ownership of the folder and then attempt to delete it, see if it works.

    Regards.
     
    Kapil Arya MVP, Jul 5, 2025 at 6:53 AM
    #4
Thema:

Unable to move or delete files as administrator

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