How to Fix the ‘TrustedInstaller’ Error Using the Windows 10 Command Prompt

The Command Prompt function allows PC users to fix Windows 10 issues by enabling you to perform administrative tasks. Every Windows PC has Command Prompt, and it’s easy to use with a little instruction.

 

Open Command Prompt using the Windows Start Menu or Search Bar. Enter the following text to take control of a particular file: TAKEOWN /F (filename). Enter the full file name and path. Do not include any parentheses. If the command was entered properly, you’ll receive the following notification: Success: The file (or folder): “filename” now owned by user “Computer Name/User Name. ”

How to Fix the TrustedInstaller Error Using File Explorer

If you don’t feel comfortable using the Command Prompt to take ownership, there is another option. Once you use File Explorer to gain access using the following steps, you can delete or modify files as needed.

Open File Explorer, then right-click the folder or file you want to take ownership of. Select Properties from the menu that appears. Select the Security tab, then select Advanced. Select Change Permissions. Input your User Name into the blank space and select Check Names. If your account name doesn’t pop up, you can look for it manually in the list of users. Check the box next to Replace owner on sub containers and objects. Select Apply, close the Properties Window, then open it again. Once again, select the Security tab again, then select Advanced. From the Permission window, select Add. Choose Select a Principal, input your User Name, check all permission boxes, then select OK. Check the box next to Replace all child object permission entries with inheritable permission entries from this object, then select Apply.

What Is the ‘TrustedInstaller’ Error and Why Does It Appear When I Try to Delete Files?

Provided you’re the primary user of your home computer, you might be surprised to find out you need anyone’s permission to deal with files on your PC.

All Windows 10 PCs have an in-built Microsoft account, known as the NT SERVICE/TrustedInstaller. This account exists to prevent accidental damage to your Windows PC and is given ownership over many important files on your computer. For you to be able to take control of your files, you’ll need to make yourself the owner of the files.