permanent read only

Most common error in running SFC is forgeting to include the space between the c and the / (sfc /scannow) There are also (2) two (n's) in /scannow I'll search a little to discover common problems that would cause the symptom you describe of the "sfc thing isnt working it goes to the black thing then dissapears" In my use of sfc /scannow … the black DOS command screen opens for just a split second then closes, followed by a windows variety progress monitoring screen about 1 inch high and 3 inches wide. This screen is titled: Window File Protection "please wait while windows confirms that all windows protected files are intact, etc." below the title and message is a "progress bar" that tracks left-to-right until SFC has completed the scan. If missing or corrupt files are located, SFC calls for the XP installation CD, and thereafter reads/copies/replaces missing or corrupt files. If you have other windows or application programs open during SFC, the Window File Protection screen may become hidden behind one of your open applications. Recommend that you close all window before running sfc /scannow See ya tomorrow.

ok, i just did it, im pretty sure it worked, my folders are all still read only but i can delete them now so it doesnt really matter. oh yeah and: THANK YOU VERY MUCH! you've tried really hard and helped loads. if the problems come back again ill try to find this topic and here or ill make a new one. -Nic

You are very welcome Nic, I hope to see you next time around, if needed. TomCoyote is a Great site with many wonderful Expert helpers. I learn here all the time. I hope you do too! Best Regards, Doug