I manage a “WORK” folder that contains client files and I frequently modify the contents of its subfolders, “CLIENTXX”. Unfortunately, I often accidentally permanently delete items by using “SHIFT+DELETE” instead of sending them to the recycle bin. I’m seeking a solution to protect my “WORK” folder from accidental deletion while still allowing full access to its subfolders and files. I have attempted to make the contents “Read-Only”, but that doesn’t fully solve the problem as I still need to edit files in the client subfolders.
2 Answers
You can prevent accidental deletion of the “WORK” folder in Windows 10 by taking the following steps:
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Create a backup copy of the folder in a safe location.
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Change the folder’s permissions to “Read-only” for all users except yourself.
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Use a third-party software, such as FileProtect, to lock the folder and prevent accidental deletion.
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Use the built-in version control system in Windows 10, such as File History, to track changes to the folder and recover previous versions of deleted files.
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Train yourself to double-check the keys used before deletion.
Note that, making the folder read-only would not prevent accidental deletion, but will prevent accidental modification of the folder’s contents.
To prevent accidental deletion of a folder, follow these steps:
- Right-click the folder and select
Properties. - On the
Securitytab, clickAdvanced. - In the
Permissionstab, select your user. Disable InheritanceandConvert Inherited Permissions.- Double-click your user name and uncheck “Delete” under
advanced permissions. - Click
OKandApply.
Note: While these steps will prevent deletion, you can still modify the files. It’s crucial to back up important files.