Windows 10: WindowsApps folder: Unable to add or change files

Ok, this is a problem I've been trying to research. None of the guides work. I need some help.

I want to change some files for one of the programs that lives in WindowsApps (on Windows 10). I can't do it. I can delete files and folders. I can add things to the WindowsApps directory. But when it comes to adding or changing things within any subfolder of WindowsApps, I simply can't do it. The computer tells me I need permission, every time, without fail.

I have taken ownership of the WindowsApps folder, and all the files and folders in it. I have taken ownership till I'm blue in the face. I can confirm that I absolutely, 100% have ownership. I have given Full Control to my account (Administrator), to the Administrators group, and to Everyone. These things are supposed to be magic bullets. But I still can't change or add files. I have tried
takeown /f "%ProgramFiles%\WindowsApps" /a /r /d y
icacls "%ProgramFiles%\WindowsApps" /inheritance:r /grant:r Administrators*SadOI)(CI)F /t /c
and it hasn't made any difference. What do I do? How do I force the system to let me do what I want?

Please, please take note of what I have already done. Please do not tell me that I just need to take ownership of the folders, because I've already done that. It didn't work. I need some stronger mojo.

Thank you.

:)

 

WindowsApps folder says permissions are corrupted and need to be deleted, is this normal or critical?

According to your description, I suggest you try the following steps:

1. Navigate to the location C:\Program Files.
   
2. Right-click on the WindowsApps folder, and select Properties.
   
3. Turn to Security tab and click on Advanced.
   
4. Click on Change and then type Users in Enter the object name to select area.
   
5. Click on OK, then click Apply > OK. You can also add the TrustedInstaller to the users list and check if it takes effect.
   

However, you might be still not able to access the files. The workaround is to go inside the C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\, and repeat the same way with the Microsoft.WindowsStore* folders.

 

WindowsApps folder is empty

Hi,

WindowsApps folder is where files of all default and Store apps are stored. For us to effectively assist you with your concern, we would like to know the following:

• Are you having issues with the Windows apps on your PC?
• When was the last time you saw the contents of the the WindowsApps folder?
  
• Were there any changes made prior to your concern?

Regards.

 

WINDOWSAPPS FILE

Hi,

For us to provide you an accurate resolution regarding your WindowsApps folder issue, we would like to know the following:

• Were there any updates made on your computer prior to this concern?
• Send us a screenshot of your WindowsApps and WindowsAppsOld folders so that we can double check the issue.
• When did the issue first begin?
• What troubleshooting steps have you taken so far to resolve this?

We look forward to your response.