How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In this article, we will guide you how to regain access to your hard drive when it fails.

How to regain access to hard drive

When you connect a previously used drive to a new or different computer, either as an external drive or an internal drive, you will not have access to that drive. When you try to view, add, or delete files on that drive, you will receive an error message: " E:\ is not accessible. Access is denied ". The message on your drive may be different, but don't worry, there is a solution.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In Windows 7, when you look at your drives in Windows Explorer, one of the drives you just added won't report any data about its size or free space.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

This problem is fixed quite simply with a two-step process. First, you need to take back ownership of the hard drive, then give yourself permission as the new owner.

Note : Do not try this on the C:\ drive (boot drive), as it will change the system and force you to reinstall Windows.

1. Regain ownership

In Windows Explorer, right-click the drive you want to take ownership of, and then select Properties from the drop-down menu.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Security tab .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Advanced button .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Owner tab in Advanced Security Settings .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Edit button.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Other users or groups button.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In the “ Object Types " section, uncheck all boxes except Users, then click OK .

Click the Advanced button.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click the Find Now button.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In the Search Results section , click the user name that you use to log in to Windows, and then click OK.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Verify the correct username in the object window and click OK.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Check the box next to Replace owner on subcontainters and objects .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

You will see a warning message " All permissions will be replaced… ". This is normal. Click Yes .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

A status window appears, notifying you that file permissions have changed.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

If you see an “ Access is denied ” error message , that’s okay. That message is just referring to a specific system file that is in use. You don’t need to access it. Just press the Continue button.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

Click OK on the final message in the Windows Security window.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

By doing the above steps, you have successfully regained ownership of your hard drive.

2. Grant access

In Windows Explorer, right-click the drive you just took back ownership of, then select Properties from the drop-down menu.

Under Properties, select the Security tab . You'll see your username in the Group or user names window . Click the username to highlight it, then click the Edit button .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In the Allow column , check the Full control box , and then click the OK button .

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

The hard drive will appear in Windows Explorer with information about its size and free space. You can click on it, view its folders, and then add, delete, or modify files as needed.

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

With a few simple steps, you can regain access to your hard drive. If you encounter a similar error, don't forget to use this method!

Good luck!

Leave a Comment

How to Install the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026

How to Install the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026

Master the installation of the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026 effortlessly. Boost your productivity with seamless scheduling and meetings. Follow our proven, up-to-date steps for instant success!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams License Error 2026

How to Fix Microsoft Teams License Error 2026

Struggling with Microsoft Teams "License Error" 2026? Discover proven, step-by-step solutions to resolve it fast. Clear cache, check licenses, and get back to seamless collaboration—no IT help needed!

The Best Exercises for 50+

The Best Exercises for 50+

Whether youre in your 50s, 60s, or even 70s, its not too late to prioritize your health and put yourself first. Here are the best exercises for people 50 and older.

Solving Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11

Solving Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11

Struggling with Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11? Follow our step-by-step fixes to resolve crashes and launch issues quickly. Latest proven solutions for seamless teamwork.

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Login Error AADSTS50011

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Login Error AADSTS50011

Stuck with Microsoft Teams login error AADSTS50011? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to resolve the reply URL mismatch issue and log in seamlessly. No tech skills needed!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Win 7 Compatibility Error

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Win 7 Compatibility Error

Tired of the frustrating Microsoft Teams "Win 7" Compatibility Error blocking your meetings? Get instant fixes with our step-by-step guide, including workarounds for older Windows versions. Resolve it now and stay connected!

Solving Microsoft Teams Error R Restart

Solving Microsoft Teams Error R Restart

Tired of the endless Microsoft Teams "Error R" restart loop? Get step-by-step fixes to solve Microsoft Teams Error R quickly. Clear cache, reset, reinstall & more for smooth collaboration. Works on Windows, Mac & web.

Solving Microsoft Teams Bị lỗi Troubleshooting Guide

Solving Microsoft Teams Bị lỗi Troubleshooting Guide

Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Bị lỗi" issues? Discover proven fixes for crashes, sign-in errors, and more in this comprehensive troubleshooting guide. Get back to seamless collaboration!

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams How Download Error

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams How Download Error

Struggling with the Microsoft Teams "How Download" error? Discover step-by-step fixes for smooth file downloads, app updates, and more. Get back to collaborating without frustration!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Error Code 2603 (2026)

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Error Code 2603 (2026)

Frustrated by Microsoft Teams Error Code 2603? Get instant relief with our step-by-step guide to fix installation failures, crashes, and more in the latest 2026 updates. Works for all users!

Solving Microsoft Teams Wiki in Teams Error Loading

Solving Microsoft Teams Wiki in Teams Error Loading

Tired of the frustrating Microsoft Teams "Wiki in Teams" error loading? Get step-by-step fixes for Wiki not loading in Teams, clear cache, reset settings, and more. Resolve it fast with our expert guide.

How to Keep Microsoft Teams Active and Available All Day

How to Keep Microsoft Teams Active and Available All Day

Master how to keep Microsoft Teams active and "Available" all day. Proven tips, tools, and settings to avoid "Away" status, boost productivity, and never miss a beat in your workday.

How to Download Microsoft Teams for Windows 11 in 2026

How to Download Microsoft Teams for Windows 11 in 2026

Discover how to download Microsoft Teams for Windows 11 in 2026 with our ultimate guide. Official methods, troubleshooting, and pro tips for seamless installation and instant collaboration.

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Groups Visibility Error

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Groups Visibility Error

Tired of missing groups in Microsoft Teams? Discover how to fix the "Groups" Visibility Error with simple, up-to-date steps. Restore your teams visibility fast and frustration-free.

The Best Vitamins and Minerals for Your Eyes

The Best Vitamins and Minerals for Your Eyes

The eyes are the windows to the soul. So take good care of them with the following eye vitamins.