Can't access my old folder

[gib65]

Hello,

I just had to reinstall my OS (Win XP Media Center). I didn't reformat the hard drive so all my old files are still there. The problem is I can't access them. If I go to C:\Documents and Settings, I can see my old folder and my new one. Clicking on my old one tells me

"Access is denied"

If I boot up in safe mode and log in as an administrator, I still have no access.

How can I access my old folder?

 

[JCB1]

try taking ownership of the folder by doing the following.

How to take ownership of a file

You must have ownership of a protected file in order to access it. If another user has restricted access and you are the computer administrator, you can access the file by taking ownership.

To take ownership of a file, follow these steps:

1. Right-click the file that you want to take ownership of, and then click Properties.
2. Click the Security tab, and then click OK on the Security message (if one appears).
3. Click Advanced, and then click the Owner tab.
4. In the Name list, click Administrator, or click the Administrators group, and then click OK.

 

[gib65]

There is no security tab in the folder's properties, and I can't find anything to do with ownership.

EDIT: Never mind, the security tab shows up in safe mode logged in as administrator.