Fix "Access Denied" Errors: Add 'Take Ownership' to Context Menu (or use CMD)

If you manage Windows servers, you've likely hit this wall: You are the Administrator, but when you try to delete or edit a folder, Windows stubbornly says:

"Access Denied" or "You require permission from TrustedInstaller".

The problem is Ownership. Even Admins can't touch files owned by the System. Here are the two fastest ways to fix this: The "One-Click" Registry Hack (our custom tool) and the Manual CMD method.

Method 1: The "One-Click" Solution (Registry Hack)

Why type commands when you can just right-click? We created a simple registry script that adds a "Take Ownership" button directly to your Windows right-click menu.

How to Install & Use:

1. Download and unzip the file.
2. Double-click Add_Take_Ownership_to_context_menu.reg.
3. Click Yes on the warning prompts.
4. Now, Right-Click on any stubborn folder. You will see the new option:

Click it, and a CMD window will flash for a second. You now own the files!

Method 2: The Manual Way (CMD Commands)

If you cannot download files (e.g., on a restricted server), you can achieve the exact same result using the Command Prompt.

1. Open CMD as Administrator.
2. Run this command to take ownership recursively:

Then, grant yourself full permissions:

Crucial Final Step: Resetting Inheritance

Note: Just taking ownership isn't always enough. You often need to reset the permission inheritance.

1. Right-click the folder > Properties > Security > Advanced.
2. Check the box at the bottom: "Replace all child object permission entries with inheritable permission entries...".
3. Click Apply. This fixes any lingering "Access Denied" errors in subfolders.