Can't access files

I can't access my previous user file in windows xp. I installed windows xp over my exsiting windows xp and now can't access my old user file. I tried to do it in safe mode but it still says that I am denied access. what can I do?

 

I had the same problem a while ago... From what i can remember i went into safe mode and logged in as admin then i could get into it i think i changed the properties of the file(s) when i was doing it.. Think thats right if not some1 correct me

Paul

 

even when I log in as the admin I can't access the file

 

SID (Security Identifier) automatically assigns new ID for each installation.
If no other method works and these files are not huge, you could try creating a FAT partition (use Partition Magic8 or whatever else you can), then using DOS NTFS reader freeware on a floppy that you boot to, you could access the NTFS folder/files and move them to the FAT partition, if you can create a new FAT partition and these files in question could fit on a floppy disk then you could simply copy them from their current location to a blank (FAT formatted) floppy disk.
Hope this helps if you can't find an easier way...

I am not sure if MajorGeeks have this program but here is the developer d/l link:
http://www.ntfs.com/products.htm

 

These files can't fit on a floppy disk, they are too big. the files are at least 150Mb on up. I don't care about them so if there is a way to delete them that would be alright. If it comes to it I'll back up my current files on my computer and format the hard drive.