Friday, October 12, 2012

How To Remove Files And Folders Which Refused to Delete

Deleting files and folders from a system helps to create free space and also helps to remove unwanted files which might be conflicting with other system files. These are files which were downloaded or parts of old Windows directories which remained during improper installation of Windows Operating System. These old Windows files and other stubborn ones can be difficult to remove sometimes. Either requiring administrative permission or  coming up with error message of  'This file cannot be deleted because it is being used by another person or program' in most cases.



Image of a refusing to delete file 

Whatever the case maybe,  there are different ways of removing them from a system. This ranges from use of command lines to a third party software, software which are good in sniffing the areas where the files are holding strongly to a system. The  command lines are usually meant for those who are familiar with the inner working of an operating system, for those who wouldn't do anything unusual along the line to compromise the whole operation. To use the third party software is quickest and smoothest way of removing these stubborn files with ease.

Before going about the process of deleting the unrelenting files and folders from a system it's advisable to review them first to avoid conflicts. This will help to ascertain there is no deleting of system important files and folders which might be detrimental to the whole operation. During the course of review and pointing out files and folders meant for deleting there is need to steer clear of the Windows directories. If you find anything suspicious just scan the system and spot the unwanted for removal.

As aforementioned it is right to use the third party software, which are usually available for free download on-line. So, I would be talking about how to use a common but very effective software called 'Unlocker' to achieve that, it is a household name in this process.

Step 1: Download 'Unlocker' meant for your Operating System and architecture from Google or hosts on-line. There is no doubt the 64bit is available and it's Windows 8 compatible.

Step 2:  Run the installer to install the Unlocker.

Step 3: Double-click on the Unlocker shortcut to invoke the process.

Image of selecting Unlock fro Windows dialogue


Step 4: Right-click on the files or folders which are refusing to delete from your system.


Image of Unlocker dialogue


Step 5: Select the 'Unlocker' from the Windows dialogue.


Image of selecting delete action


Step 6:  From the Unlocker's dialogue box click on the drop-down menu to select 'Delete' to delete the stubborn files or folders.


Image of clicking OK to start unlocker process 


Step 7:   Click 'OK' for it to carry out the process of deleting the files or folders.


Image of successfully deleting the stubborn file or folder

Step 8: Click 'OK' to exit dialogue after deleting the files or folders with success .