Using Command Prompt for deletion is sometimes more efficient, and you definitely should give it a try. Delete the File/Folder with Command Prompt Then, try to delete the file again on your Windows PC. Find the application that is currently using the file, and select 'End task'. Go to Start, type Task Manager, and choose 'Task Manager' to open it. To force Windows 11/10 to delete a file, you can follow the steps below: Usually, you could receive the information when you can't delete a file like a picture showing below. Force to Delete a File That Cannot Be Deleted Windows 11/10įiles cannot be deleted if the file is open in an application. If these files still exist, the following methods would do a favor to you. Let the antivirus scan your computer to see if there's a virus on your computer and get rid of it.Can't Remove Windows.old Can't Delete EFI Can't Delete Appsīefore you take actions to delete the undeletable files, you can first try these simple tips and delete these files: Sometimes, a file may not unlock successfully, and even if you try to take any action, you'll see a warning that the operation can't be completed because it's open by another program. Usually, after the file is no longer in use, the application will unlock it automatically, but that's not always the case. When a file is open by another app or process, Windows 11/10 puts the file into a locked state, and you can't delete, modify, or move it to another location. This can occur even if you don't see any programs running. It's most likely because another program is currently trying to use the file.

Otherwise, a virus must be taken into account. Generally, the file is used or locked would be the main reason. If you want to fix this problem, you must know the reason first. Sometimes you might encounter a folder that you're unable to delete. Why Can't I Delete the Files on Windows 11/10/8/7 Launch EaseUS Partition Master, right-click the partition you want to erase. Open 'Settings' > Click on 'Update & Security' > Click on 'Recovery' > Under 'Advanced Startup'. Press the Windows key + R and type cmd to open the Command Prompt.

$recycle.bin folder delete