WindowsXP File and Folder Security

I am unable to uncheck the “Read Only” checkbox in the properties of all my folders and files inside XP. I do not get any error messages. I simply uncheck the box and select “all subfolders” and click apply. It goes through its commands and appears to be successful, the check is gone from the box, but when I reopen the properties dialog box, it still has a greyed out check in the “Read Only” checkbox. I have attemped this command many times and have tried rebooting, applying full control to every and all users. If there is a switch somewhere that is new from W2K, please let me know.