Unlock a file with system only privileges

I am trying to remove the "Previous System" folder after my update. It is no longer necessary, therefore, I'm tidying up the files.


The problem is the old Sleepimage file is locked with System as the only user with full RW permissions. I can't add myself (admin) to the file.

User uploaded file


How can I unlock this file in order to delete it? Thanks in advance!

MacBook, OS X Yosemite (10.10.5), 8g RAM

Posted on Jan 26, 2016 10:31 AM

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5 replies

Jan 26, 2016 10:47 AM in response to kpasa

Hmmm, there is no Previous System folder with current versions of OS X. That died out with the move to Snow Leopard. As for the sleep image file just enable r/w privileges for wheel and everyone while the dialog is open and unlocked. That should work. However, if the sleep image file returns you will need to revert those privileges back to what they should be.


I'm not sure what to suggest for this Previous System folder you have mentioned. You should be able to drag it to the Trash to get rid of it. Maybe you can provide more information about it.

Jan 26, 2016 11:34 AM in response to kpasa

How are your Terminal skills? You may need to use the command line to get rid of the folder. Open the Terminal. At the prompt enter:


sudo rm -Rf


Enter a space after "-Rf" then drag the folder into the Terminal window. Press RETURN. You will be asked to enter your admin password, but it will not echo to the window - type carefully. Press RETURN again. See if that does the trick.


You might also try using Trash It! 5.1 to fix the problem. I'm not sure if it actually works with an item not yet in the Trash.

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Unlock a file with system only privileges

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