How do I access files that are owned by another user?

I recently formatted my Mac Pro and I copied all the files to external drive, I didn’t use TM. After creating a new account on a new OS I can’t open the files, because the old user can’t be located. I can’t copy the files to the new account. I need to access my logic files but I can’t find a solution. I tried making a new TM and editing the contents and replacing it with my old files, but editing the TM is prohibited. Is there a way I can restore a Mac using a copied drive or a possibility that I can custom make a TM drive with the files. Or If there is a solution where I use a windows machine to open the folders. I need to get to these files

Solution 1:

Even if you have the same username on a different instance of macOS (it could be the same computer), the OS doesn't see the two as being the same.

What you need to do is take ownership of the files.

Using Finder

You can do this in finder by using "Get Info" when selecting a file or folder. In the example below, I'm selecting an entire folder to take ownership of.

• Press ⌘ CommandI for "Get info"
• Unlock the "Sharing and Permissions" pane
• Add your name by clicking the plus (+) symbol
• Then select "Make username (Me)" the owner

Apple has an excellent support document detailing these steps.

Using Terminal

It's actually much easier (IMO) to do this via Terminal Just issue the following command (you'll need to enter your password at the prompt)

$ sudo chown -R <YourUserName> /path/to/file  

Where...

• -R = recursively; it will take ownership of it and it's sub-folders (if any)
• <YourUserName> is your login name. If you're not sure issue the command whoami at the prompt
• /path/to/file is the full path of the file or directory you want to take ownership of