If you encounter an issue where the Read-Only option cannot be unchecked for folders and files in Windows 11/10, then this post will help you. This issue usually points to a deeper system setting or a permission conflict, not just a simple change of an attribute. When a folder or file is set to Read-Only, it can prevent applications from saving data and prevent users from making changes. In this post, we will discuss this issue and explore possible solutions.
Can’t uncheck Read Only in the Folder and files on Windows 11/10
Before proceeding with the solution, we need to clarify one point. A solid checkbox in a folder’s properties doesn’t mean the folder is Read-only; it’s a legacy indicator for the files inside. If you can still create, edit, or delete files, everything’s working as expected and there’s nothing to fix
If you’re unable to uncheck Read Only in the Folder and files in Windows 11/10, follow the solutions mentioned below.
- Use the attrib command
- Disable Controlled Folder Access
- Take Ownership and set Full Permissions
- Check and Uninstall Third-Party Security Software
- Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Let us talk about them in detail.
1] Use the attrib command
The attrib command is a tool for bulk-modifying file attributes directly via the command line, bypassing the sometimes misleading Windows graphical interface. You can make the changes. You can open the Command Prompt and run the following command to make the changes.
attrib -r +s "C:\Your\Folder\Path\*" /s /d
- -r removes the Read-only attribute.
- +s sets the System attribute (helps with persistence).
- /s processes all subfolders.
- /d processes folders as well.
- Replace C:\Your\Folder\Path\ with your actual path. Enclose paths with spaces in quotes.
Hopefully, the command will do the job for you.
2] Disable Controlled Folder Access
The Controlled Folder Access feature blocks all unauthorized applications from making changes to files in protected directories. When enabled, it will override your manual attempt to change attributes, treating it as a potential threat. Disabling it removes this strict enforcement layer, while adding a folder exemption allows your changes while keeping the security feature active for other locations. You can disable Controller Folder Access using the steps mentioned below.
- Search for and open the Windows Security app.
- Now, go to Virus & threat protection.
- Under Virus & threat protection, click on Manage settings.
- Scroll down and click on Manage controlled folder access under Controlled folder access.
- Finally, turn off the Controlled folder access toggle.
Once done, try turning off the read-only option. If it works, enable Controller folder access to prevent your system from being vulnerable to threats. Alternatively, if you want to keep it on, add your folder to the exclusion list via Protected folders.
3] Take Ownership and Set Full Permissions
Ownership is key in Windows’ NTFS permission system, as even administrators can’t change permissions on files or folders they don’t own. By taking ownership, you gain the ultimate right to modify security settings. Applying Full Control permissions then allows your account to view, modify, delete, or change attributes for all files and subfolders, overriding any inherited read-only restrictions. To take Full Control, follow the steps mentioned below.
- Right-click on the folder and select Properties.
- Go to the Security tab and then click on Advanced.
- Go to Owner and click on Change.
- Enter the username and click on Check Names. Click Ok.
- Check Replace all child object permission entries with inheritable permission entries from the object.
- Click OK.
- Now, you will see the user under the Group or user names, select the user, click on Edit, and finally, tick Full control.
- Click OK.
Finally, check if the issue is resolved.
4] Check and Uninstall Third-Party Security Software
Third-party security software often operates at a lower system level than standard user permissions, interpreting any changes, even intentional ones, as potential threats. Uninstalling this software removes its drivers and real-time protections, allowing your changes to take effect without interference from the system’s native permissions. So, go ahead and remove the third-party antivirus and check if the issue is resolved.
5] Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corruption in system files can sometimes lead to unpredictable behavior, such as an inability to modify file attributes. The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans for and repairs damaged Windows system files, while the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool addresses issues with the Windows system image that SFC depends on. Running these scans can help resolve the problem by restoring essential system components to their proper state. You need to open Command Prompt as an administrator and then run the following command.
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Hopefully, with the help of these solutions, you will be able to resolve the issue.
Read: How to make Disk or Partition Read-Only in Windows 11
How to remove Read-only in folder Windows 11?
To remove read-only from a folder in Windows 11, right-click on the folder, and select Properties. Now, go to the General tab and untick Read-only. Click on Apply > Ok.
Read: How to make a File or Folder Hidden or Read Only in Windows
Why can’t I change permissions on a folder?
You likely lack ownership of the folder or administrative privileges, which are required to modify permissions. Additionally, security software or Windows features like Controlled Folder Access can actively block your attempts to change these settings.
Also Read: All my Files and Folders are Read Only on Windows PC.
