How to Use the Properties Command in the Windows Explorer to Unlock the File

By Jim Campbell

Change permissions on your files.
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Windows Explorer is the main application that allows you to view a list of files on your computer in a graphical, user-friendly window. You have the option to view file permissions such as "Read-Only" or "Hidden". If the file is set as "Read-Only" you receive an "Access Denied" error when trying to edit it. Use the Windows Explorer "Properties" command to remove this restriction.

Login to your Windows computer using the administrator user name and password. Click the Windows "Start" button and click "Computer". This opens the Windows Explorer screen with a list of drives.

Double-click the drive with the file you want to edit. Navigate to the directory with the file. Right-click your file and select "Properties". This opens a configuration window.

Remove the check-mark next to "Read-Only". If "Hidden" is check-mark checked, remove that as well.

Click "OK" to save your settings. This removes the attributes and gives you permission to save changes to the file.

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