More "access denied" - program configuration files

[Mark.Kolber]

New to Vista. My old laptop bit the bulled and unfortunately I could
not find an acceptable replacement new without it .

I have some program where I spent a long time configuring options. So
after re-installing the programs, I'd like to copy the ini or cfg
files (in one case it's a reg file) into the applicable Programs
folder. I can get to the folders but when I try to copy the file, I
get "access denied".

I've been able to figure out how to change the file properties/
permissions on an individual basis, but is there a more global
solution?

 

[Michael Walraven]

'program files' was always reserved for program files, not
configuration/user data. In XP there was no enforcement mechanism. In Vista
the system really tries to enforce this. If a user (program) tries to change
data associated with a folder under 'programs files', that change is stored
in a virtual data area on a per-user basis. You will find that per user area
at:
c:\USERS\name\appdata\local\virtualstore\program files\ here you will find
files that have been changed from the original installation.

If you have a folder open that has had changes made to it you will find a
toolbar entry 'Compatibility Files', clicking on that will take you to where
the file that will be used resides.

The advantage is that each user can have his own configuration, the
disadvantage is that old programming techniques can become confusing.

As you have found you can change the security settings to get around this
feature, however as with all security changes there may be unintended
consequences.

You can do things MS way or your way, your way is often more interesting.

Michael

 

[Mark.Kolber]

You can do things MS way or your way, your way is often more interesting.

Michael

Of course, sometimes the MS way is a royal pain in the butt. Vista has
been the butt of many jokes. Some are probably not deserved but the
company has along history of change-ups that mess up long-time users.
Office 2007 is worthless. 10 years of making Word do what I want down
the toilet unless I take the time to figure out how to recreate it.
Outlook macro recorder anyone? Seems the only way MS can find to
prevent security problems (and I bet it won't work) is to lessen user
functionality.

As I said, if I could have gotten XP I would have. So, how about
assistance instead of rationalizations?

(I did find how to shut off User Account Control. Now I need to figure
out how to keep Vista from constantly reminding me about it)

-
Mark
Former MCPS