3 Ways to Access the WindowsApps Folder on Windows

Quick Tips

• The WindowsApps folder contains several files, including pre-installed Microsoft apps and system files essential for the proper functioning of your PC.
• You can easily access the WindowsApps folder in Windows by taking ownership of it.
• Running a PowerShell command or modifying registry files can also help you gain access to the WindowsApps folder.

Method 1: Gain Access to the WindowsApps Folder via File Explorer

The easiest way to open the WindowsApps folder is through File Explorer. Getting to WindowsApps via this method involves enabling hidden folders. You’ll then have to take ownership of the WindowsApps folder. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Open File Explorer on your Windows PC. Then, head to the C:\Program Files directory.

Step 2: Click the View option at the top and select Show > Hidden items.

You should now see the WindowsApps folder in the C:\Program Files directory. However, should you try opening the folder, you’ll either get a pop-up saying, “You’ve been denied permission to access this folder,” or the folder will close as soon as it opens.

So, in order to access it, you’ll have to take ownership of the WindowsApps folder using these steps:

Step 1: Right-click on the WindowsApps folder. Select Properties from the list.

Step 2: Go to the Security tab. Then, click on Advanced.

Step 3: Click the Change button next to Owner settings.

Step 4: On the pop-up, click Advanced.

Step 5: Then, click on Find Now.

Step 6: Select the Administrator option in the panel at the bottom. Save changes by clicking OK.

Step 7: Click OK once again in the dialog box.

Step 8: Tick the check box next to Replace owner on sub containers and objects.

Step 9: Select Apply. Consequently, click OK button to transfer ownership.

Step 10: Click OK once again to close the Properties window.

Method 2: Open the WindowsApps Folder Using PowerShell

If you’re not comfortable with the File Explorer method, try your hand at gaining access to WindowsApps using a PowerShell command. Here’s how to go about it.

Step 1: Press the Windows key + S to open the search menu. Type PowerShell in the search bar and select Run as Administrator.

Step 2: Execute the below command within the PowerShell window.

takeown /f "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps" /r

Step 3: PowerShell should grant you ownership of the WindowsApps folder now. This happens once the command line stops with a “SUCCESS” message displayed.

After completing the above steps, use the file explorer to access the WindowsApps folder.

Method 3: Use Registry Hack to Open WindowsApps

Should you find it difficult to execute the command under the PowerShell method or you just don’t want to do it repeatedly, another simple way to open the WindowsApps folder is through a registry hack. For this method, you will need to download a third-party modified file. So, proceed only if you’re comfortable with that.

Step 1: Download the Take Full Ownership of Files and Folders registry hack from Major Geeks.

Step 2: Once downloaded, extract the file to any destination of your choice. Then, double-click on the Add Take Ownership to Context menu file.

Step 3: Add it to the registry by clicking on Yes.

Step 4: Now, open File Explorer on your Windows PC. Then, head to the C:\Program Files directory.

Step 5: Right-click on the WindowsApps folder and click Take Ownership.

Step 6: Grant admin rights in the command prompt window and wait for it to display a success message.

Once this is done, you can double-click on the WindowsApps folder to open it like any other file or folder on your Windows PC.

Things to Do if You Can’t Access the WindowsApps Folder

If you’re unsuccessful at opening the WindowsApps folder even after following the three methods, here are some quick solutions.

• Restart your Windows PC and then try again.
• Ensure you’re logged into Windows with an admin account.
• Try logging into a different user account.
• Make sure you’re using the correct PowerShell command.
• Install any pending updates and then try again.