problems moving files in Finder on Macbook Air 2020

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problems moving files in Finder on Macbook Air 2020

Hi. I don't know if I've done something weird with admin powers or it's a new thing in Macs but I can't move or copy files from one folder to another in Finder without having to give my password.

If I try to move a file by selecting, holding on the trackpad and using another finger to move it, it won't react, but if I also select command or option then it will allow me to move or copy but only if I give my setup password. I set up the Air when I got it so I thought I would have full admin powers.

Am I missing something? If so, what?

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.4

Posted on Aug 7, 2021 4:46 AM

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Answer 1

1ssmith

Community Specialist

Aug 9, 2021 7:00 AM in response to dmv501

Hello dmv501,

It is actually expected that "allow user to administer this computer" would be greyed out here.

It is possible that there is a permission issue for that one folder. You can find information on how to change permissions here: Change permissions for files, folders, or disks on Mac - Apple Support

Even if the permissions look right, we would suggest that you change them and then change them back.

Cheers.

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Answer 2

dmv501 Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 8, 2021 2:32 PM in response to Matthew.S81

Matthew,

Thanks for the reply. Yes I am the administrator in Users and Groups in Preferences. The problem seems to be within one folder, although the drag and drop still requires me to hold down command also to move an item. Is there some issue with the permissions? If I unlock the users and groups the 'allow user to administer this computer' is greyed out.

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Answer 3

dmv501 Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 9, 2021 9:23 AM in response to 1ssmith

That seems to have solved the problem. I still need to hold the 'command' button when transferring files to another folder but it works without having to write my mac password every time. Thank you both for your assistance.

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Answer 4

Aug 8, 2021 8:14 AM in response to dmv501

Hello dmv501,

From your post it appears you are having some issues moving files.

Let's start by confirming the type of user account being used.

In the upper left corner of the screen, click on the Apple logo. Then click on System Preferences.

In the System Preferences window, click on Users & Groups in the second row.

In the left column it should list the accounts set up. Does it say "Admin" under the account you are using?

For informational purposes, here are the steps to move or copy files: Organize files in folders on Mac - Apple Support

Have a good day.

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problems moving files in Finder on Macbook Air 2020

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