Delete Undeletable Files in Windows
Sometimes you are faced with an error when you try to delete a file permanently. It may be Spyware, Malware, Ad-ware or any Trojan. In some situations, the file is being used by the essential Windows programs such as Windows Explorer, which prevents it from being removed. If using Task Manager was unsuccessful, you can get rid of these pesky files and delete them forcibly by either completing the process manually or by downloading free and easy applications.
Contents
Steps
Using an Application
- Download a File Deleting Application. There are many free and safe options that you can find with a little research like Unlocker, LockHunter, and FileASSASSIN. These applications are often used for deleting malware. You can usually download these directly from their website, following their instructions.
- Double-click on the downloaded application. If you are using FileASSASSIN, a window will appear that will ask you to select the file you wish to delete. You may either input the file manually by typing it out or go to "Browse" at the bottom of the window. The other applications may vary slightly in layout, but the process will be generally the same.
- Delete the file. Once you have selected the file you want to delete, click on it and then select "delete" from the options that the application provides you.
- Select "Execute." In a few moments, the file will be deleted and you can close the program. You may want to check the files original location to determine that the delete was successful.
Using the Command Prompt
- Restart your computer. In any situation where you are experiencing computer issues, it is always advisable to restart your computer and try the task again before moving on to more drastic measures. If the file continues to be undeletable, move onto the next steps.
- Go to the "Command Prompt." You can find this be going to "Start" and then typing "CMD" or "Command Prompt" without the quotation marks into the search bar. You can also do this by clicking ⊞ Win+R on your keyboard.
- Right-click on "Command Prompt." This will prompt a drop down menu where you can select "Run as Administrator."
- You will need to have Admin Access in order to complete this method.
- Wait for a black window to appear. This is where you will input your command in order to delete a file.
- Enter your command. This command will look something like the following: .DEL /F /Q /A C:\\Users\\Your username\\The location of the file\\Name of the file you wish to delete.
- For example, if you are trying to delete a file named "unwanted.exe," the command will look like this: .DEL /F /Q /A C:\\Users\\Your Username\\Desktop\\unwanted.exe
- Press Enter. This will now permanently delete the file. You may want to go back and check the original location of the file to determine that the delete was successful.
Tips
- If you are not aware of what you are doing, then ask a computer expert or a professional to do it for you.
- If you want to delete the files automatically in Windows XP, download the software from the links in External Links.
Warnings
- Be careful to not delete Operating System files, which may cause your computer to crash or corrupt.
Related Articles
- Enable Task Manager in Windows
- Delete Software Not Listed Under Add/ Remove Program in Windows XP
- Install Windows Using a CD
- Change Windows Time Display to Include Your Name
- Disable/Enable the Windows XP Welcome Screen
- Alter Startup Programs in Windows XP
- Avoid Getting a Computer Virus or Worm
- Delete a File Using Command Prompt
- Do Common Tasks Faster in Windows 7
- Delete a Program on Windows 8
- Delete Files That Cannot Be Deleted
Sources and Citations
What links here
- Delete a File Using Command Prompt
- Add New User While Your Computer Works Under Domain Controller
- Alter the Size of Your Windows Desktop Taskbar
- Delete Files That Cannot Be Deleted
- Delete Software Not Listed Under Add/ Remove Program in Windows XP
- Download .exe Files to Your PC
- Download and Install Characters for the Sims 2
- Make a Hidden Icon on Windows XP
- Record Sound Produced by Your Sound Card
- Set a Website as Your Desktop Background in Windows