Unable to open files copied to external drive

[jtb]

I recently copied the contents of my hard drive (running Windows XP Pro) to an external hard drive. I was able to access all the files on the external hard drive without any problems until I re-formatted my computer's hard drive and reloaded Windows XP Pro. Now I can no longer open files on the external hard drive located under the Documents and Settings\'username' folders.

Although I can view all the files on the external hard drive and I can view the property information of all those files--I can no longer open any of the files located under the Documents and Settings\'username' folders.

When attempting to open a Word document, I receive
"Word cannot open the document: user does not have access priviledges" error message.

When attempting to open a PowerPoint presentation, I receive "PowerPoint was unable to open or save this document. Please ensure that you have access privileges to read or write the document and that it is not encrypted."

When attempting to open many other file types or to copy files located under the Documents and Settings\'username' folders, I receive "access is denied" error message.

Any suggestions on how to open and/or copy these files on the external hard drive?

[Play_The_0dds]

you had a password protected user account, you will have to take ownership of the files again, i will post a link that has the answer, scroll down to the third post and follow the directions.
http://www.mcse.ms/message439145.html

[jtb]

Thanks, but...

Your directions include changing setting on the 'Security' tab--I don't have a 'Security' tab in the Folder Properties.

[jtb]

Does anyone else have any other suggestions I might be able to try? Thanks.

[jtb]

.

[ultrasolve]

To get the security tab on the folder options,

In explorer, on the menu bar go to Tools > Folder Options and under the View tab scroll down to the setting "use simple file sharing" un-check that box and next time you open file properties you will find the security tab.

[jtb]

Tried the directions (again) in third post at:

http://www.mcse.ms/message439145.html

...and it work this time.

THANKS!

[WRM111]

I had a very similar problem. After copying hard disk files onto a CD then reformatting the hard drive (using XP Pro) I was unable to open the copied files. I saw a thread in this forum but couldnt find the answer. Help, anyone?