cannot access private files after reinstall

[John]

I reinstalled WinXP Pro to the same directory
(C:\WINDOWS) after having problems with it. After
reinstallation, Windows created a user account
"Administrator", but my old account was nowhere to be
seen. I tried to access my files in C:\Docs and
Settings\<user>\ but got a message saying access denied.
Does anyone know a way to retrive those files?

I have tried adding a new user with that name, but it
simply created another folder named c:\docs and
settings\<user>.WINDOWS\

I sincerely appreciate any help.

 

[Gordon Burgess-Parker]

I reinstalled WinXP Pro to the same directory
(C:\WINDOWS) after having problems with it. After
reinstallation, Windows created a user account
"Administrator", but my old account was nowhere to be
seen. I tried to access my files in C:\Docs and
Settings\<user>\ but got a message saying access denied.
Does anyone know a way to retrive those files?

I have tried adding a new user with that name, but it
simply created another folder named c:\docs and
settings\<user>.WINDOWS\

I sincerely appreciate any help.

Set your new User Account to have Admin rights and then take ownership of
the old files.
See Help and Support on Taking Ownership of a file or folder.

 

[Kelly]

Hi John,

HOW TO: Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308421

/top10faqs.htm

 

[John]

Thanks guys,

worked immediately. I appreciate it!