Reinstalled XP..Cannot access old files

[Jack]

I recently uninstalled Windows XP because (I think) of
some corrupted files. Because I have been using this
computer for a while, and didn't wish to lose any files,
i removed the old operating system, and reinstalled it
over the top.

As a result, the files (My Documents) that were secured
(so that other users could not access them unless they
were logged into my account) are now locked to me, and
because the account no longer exists, I cannot access
them. I know the old user name and password I used, the
only problem is getting into the folder. Is there
anything I can do? (P.S. - I use XP Home edition, NOT
professional)

[Torgeir Bakken (MVP)]

Jack wrote:

> I recently uninstalled Windows XP because (I think) of
> some corrupted files. Because I have been using this
> computer for a while, and didn't wish to lose any files,
> i removed the old operating system, and reinstalled it
> over the top.
>
> As a result, the files (My Documents) that were secured
> (so that other users could not access them unless they
> were logged into my account) are now locked to me, and
> because the account no longer exists, I cannot access
> them. I know the old user name and password I used, the
> only problem is getting into the folder. Is there
> anything I can do?

Hi

You need to take ownership...

HOW TO: Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;308421


--
torgeir
Microsoft MVP Scripting and WMI, Porsgrunn Norway
Administration scripting examples and an ONLINE version of the 1328 page
Scripting Guide: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/scriptcenter