After reformat, restored files from backup - don't have permission to open

[ebo2112]

I reformatted my computer.[ HP Pavillion a1700n, Vista Home Premium 32bit]

I had to back up my files using HP recovery manager because it was accessible from my boot menu. My computer was almost unuseable, so I am thankful for having that accesible back-up utility.

All the files are back in a desktop folder [they were backed up on an ext USB HD.]

When I access them (.jpg, .doc, .txt) I get "do not have permission", "access is denied", etc)

When I right click the folder, it seems to say that I (the only user and the administrator) have "Full control".

What I hope is to be able to double click any file on my computer and the application launches and the file opens. Just like before.

By the way, the user name was different prior to reformatting. I created a new user name when I reformatted. (also there were three users before, but now just one.)

Also the two operating systems are identical (updates and service packs too)

One last thing, I can open an individual file if I choose "run as administrator". But that is way too tedious, plus I never had to do that before, so I know there is a way. Still have to jump through all the UAC pop-ups and use the file. I just don't want that everytime.

Any help aprreciated.

E2