Windows File Permisions
Game distribution platforms like Steam, EA Play/Origin, Ubisoft Connect, and GOG Galaxy often utilize Program Files (x86) directories in order to take control over the installed games and their files. However, this practice can occasionally lead to complications. For instance, these controlled directories may hinder other software, like ReShade, from accessing necessary files due to restricted permissions. ReShade, in particular, requires both read and write permissions to function optimally.
In this guide, we aim to simplify the concept of file permissions, however, this is a complex topic, so we recommend following the guide closely!
Step 1: Identify the Game Directory
Before proceeding, ensure that your game is closed and no associated files are open!
The game directory is typically indicated in the file permissions error message. However, if you need assistance locating your game directory, refer to our guide on how to find your game directory.
Step 2: Access the Properties of Your Game’s Root Folder
For illustration, let’s use FFXIV:
The game executable is usually located in the game folder, which is not the root directory for FFXIV. The root directory would be FINAL FANTASY XIV – A Realm Reborn\game.
Right-click the folder named FINAL FANTASY XIV – A Realm Reborn, NOT game. In the context menu that appears, select Properties.
Step 3: Proceed to the Security Tab
In the Folder Properties window, select the Security tab.
While this tab may seem complex for beginners, this guide will walk you through each necessary step to resolve your issue.
Step 4: Select Advanced
In the lower right corner of the Security tab, click the Advanced button.
This action will open the Advanced Security Settings window, which contains more advanced user settings for folders.
Step 5: Modify the Folder’s Ownership
At the top of the Advanced Security Settings window, you’ll find two fields:
-
Name:
{Name Of The Folder Location} -
Owner:
{Username and Location of User}
These fields provide essential information about the folder and its current owner.
Click the blue Change button next to the Owner field.
Step 6: Update the Directory’s Owner
After clicking Change, a Select User or Group window will appear.
In the top right corner of this window, click Object Types.
In the menu that appears, ensure only Users is checked, then click OK.
Back in the Select User or Group window, click Advanced.
In the Select User or Group (Advanced) window, click Find Now to list all users on your system.
Double-click your username to select it, then click OK.
Step 7: Enable Replace owner on subcontainers and objects
Back in the Advanced Security Settings window, ensure Replace owner on subcontainers and objects is checked.
Click Apply, then OK in the prompt that appears.
The Replace owner on subcontainers and objects option should now be removed, indicating the ownership change was successful.
Step 8: Grant Full Control Access to Your User
Now that you’ve changed the directory’s owner, you need to grant your user full control over the directory.
Click Add at the bottom right of the Advanced Security Settings window.
In the Permissions Entry window that appears, click Select a principal.
This will open the Select User or Group window. Click Advanced.
In the Select User or Group (Advanced) window, click Find Now, then double-click your username.
This will fill in the Principal field in the Permissions Entry window.
Under Basic Permissions, ensure Full Control is selected, then click OK.
Back in the Advanced Security Settings window, you should see your user listed with Full Control access.
Click OK to finish. You can now relaunch your game and verify that the folder/file permissions error is resolved in ReShade!