How To Restore (or Reset) My "permissions" To Default In Win 10

All my pc info is in my "signature"

I fiddled one, too many times, and screwed up my permissions. Now I am nervous as I did set them to "Everybody" for my C drive (Full control).

I had done a Factory Reset the day before yesterday, so I didn't want to do that again, until I talked to someone. I read this thread and found some reliable info, although I am not sure whether I can use any of it on Windows 10. It's an old thread: http://forums.majorgeeks.com/index.php?threads/restore-default-windows-permissions.274623/#post-1810524

I can't find a step-by-step guide to restoring defaults manually. When I google, I usually get a bunch of links telling me how to "set permissions". From what I read, that is not the same as restoring to default settings, plus I am getting confused because there are so MANY manual steps.

On one of the "replies" on the other thread, someone inserted photos of his settings as Windows defaults. I am wondering if I can use the same on Windows 10. If so, I could struggle through the manual resetting of my permissions. Again, that makes me a bit nervous.

Is there some "tool" or command I can use nowadays on Windows 10 to reset permissions, without, hopefully, going through another Factory reset, which didn't work the first time at resetting the permissions.

My original OS was Windows 7, and I did the free Win 10 installation, and then, the latest update for Version.

I appreciate any help that comes my way, Denise

 

You would need to reinstall Win 10 for that Denise. PITA yes, but imo it's the only way you can be sure you have actually gone back to defaults. How tough it would be mostly depends on the third party software you have and whether you have or can easily get the installation media. You would also need your licence info for any paid for software.

EDIT - if you had been in the habit of imaging your system from time to time it would have been a fifteen minute job.

 

Hi Earthling!

Ok, I got confused as I was thinking when I did the Factory Reset, I would also get a reinstall of Windows 10. I have all I need to do that I believe. Let me check things out, and I will let you know how I do.

Thank you much, Denise

 

Ok, just saw your edit Earthling. I haven't learned how to do that yet, the imaging. I will look into that as well if this all goes well You make a very, good point. Thank you much

 

Run Tweaking.com - Windows Repair.
Installed:
http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/tweaking_com_windows_repair.html
Portable:
http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/tweaking_com_windows_repair_portable.html
Video:
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/index.php?threads/windows-repair-version-4-whats-new-tutorial.316866/

 

I just found the "Download Tool" on this microsoft page:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10startfresh

When I went to download the tool, I got a "permissions" message that really confused me because I thought my "permissions" were reset for C: Drive. See that attached photo of message. I don't know what I've done to my "permissions". I thought I had set C drive to be available (full control) to "everyone". Maybe I need to take some snips of my permissions and have you guys take a look? At least before I put a new copy of Win 10 on??

What do you think?

 

Hi Eldon,

Now I have 2 opinions on what to do, and I don't know what to do, LOL!!

I am thinking I could first try your @Eldon and if it doesn't work, resort to reinstalling a new download of Win 10 as @Earthling suggests??

 

Yes.
Run Tweaking.com - Windows Repair first.
It will restore Permissions.

 

Ok, was just watching the video. I guess it won't hurt to use the Tweaking program even if I haven't totally screwed up my "permissions" I'll go for it. I'll be back and let you guys know Denise

 

I just ran the "repair" for File Permissions and everything "looks" ok. I think I'll find out as I use my laptop if there is any issues. I do feel better having run the app (tweaking) and it said defaults would be reset.

Thanks much, Denise