I have a new installation of Win 7. Trying to keep everything else on E drive so I can swap out or upgrade OS later. Cannot delete or move folders on E drive. I have gone in and reset permissions and sharing and all that so many times. Well after deleting several user accts I am locked out for good. Main question is: When I reinstall can I just set up Win 7 without the funny Homegroup and all this security? Just want a logon password and nothing but free access to entire computer once I'm logged on. Doesn't that sound nice and friendly to anybody but me? I need nothing protected after I'm in. Is there a link to explain simple setup. Seems like since Win 2000 everything is set up for big networks. I'm run my business on my computer but it's just me.

I have the exact same issue and similar setup, the setting of permissions is terrible. When taking ownership, it will not always appear completely down all folder paths. When setting permissions, it only goes1 folder deep, even when setting all permissions to all subfolders and files. Similar forums talk of this issue. I am considering maintaining an XP machine to apply the permissions, even looking at command line utilities.

This is the dirty little secret of Windows 7 (and Vista). Everyone who says they have the answer and then is told that doesn't work leaves you hanging. I have never been more ticked about something that should be easy and a no brainer. It sucks. I lost access to a bunch of pictures and movies because of this.

Workndawg Taking ownership of the drive may help: In Computer, right-click drive E, select Properties > Security Tab > Advanced at the bottom > Owner Tab > Edit > Highlight your username and put a tick in Replace owner on sub containers and Apply > OK. You will only have the Replace owner on subcontainers box for folders not files. Click Yes when you receive the Security pop-up window then click OK to the Close/Reopen message. Make a note of the previous owner in case you want to change it back.