Error encountered while attempting to modify files on the mounted drive.
Error encountered while attempting to modify files on the mounted drive.
Hello, I'm using Ubuntu 20.04 in a dual-boot setup alongside Windows 10. My configuration includes an SSD running both operating systems and another drive holding all my files like downloads and documents. The storage is organized with NTFS partitions. Initially, I tried to automatically mount the second drive at startup through the disk settings. However, after some time, I couldn't edit any files on the mounted drive. The New Folder and Paste options are disabled, and I can't save or modify existing files. User permissions list shows root ownership, preventing changes. After turning off auto-mount, file permissions now reflect my username instead of root, but editing remains impossible. I've attempted various fixes, some working temporarily, yet the issue persists for days without clear cause. I'm seeking help to resolve this and a solution that avoids disabling startup mode. Thank you! Update: Disabling fast startup lets me edit files, though they remain tied to the root account. I'd appreciate a workaround that doesn't require turning that setting off.
I believe it's not possible. Changing settings for quick startup and editing files outside Windows might stop the system from launching or damage data. That's why Ubuntu blocks these actions (except with root privileges). See the links for more details.
Yes, you can adjust the permissions to assign ownership to yourself instead of the root user.
Linux doesn't support Windows-style file permissions at the file level, meaning you must specify access rights for the mounted drive when mounting it with root privileges. Refer to the link for details.
I was trying to figure out how to access the filesystem without editing system files. When I logged in and opened the files menu, the drive appeared as the owner. By adjusting the mount options through the GUI—selecting the drive, editing settings, and choosing to mount at startup—I ensured the root directory showed up as the owner. I prefer this method because it avoids modifying /etc/fstab, which could affect boot stability.
You don’t need to edit fstab directly. Just use mount command with the umask option. Replace the drive name and path accordingly. The "umask=000" ensures access for anyone. The interface will handle adding the necessary fstab line automatically. Check your fstab afterward to confirm the setting.