Fixing “File Cannot Be Deleted” Error – A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, when attempting to delete a file, you might encounter errors like:

• “Access is denied.”
• “The file is in use by another process.”
• “The file or directory is corrupted and unreadable.”
• “You need permission to perform this action.”

This guide provides detailed steps to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve the issue, ensuring successful file deletion.

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Step 1: Identify the Issue

Before trying any fixes, determine why the file cannot be deleted.

Check the Error Message

• “File in use” → The file is open in another program.
• “Access Denied” → You lack permission to delete the file.
• “File is corrupted” → The file system might be damaged.
• “Read-only” → The file is protected.

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Step 2: Close Programs Using the File

If the file is in use, closing the associated program can resolve the issue.

Method 1: Close the Application Manually

1. Check if the file is open in apps like Word, Excel, or Photoshop.
2. Close the application.
3. Try deleting the file again.

Method 2: Use Task Manager

If the application won’t close, end it via Task Manager:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Find the application using the file (e.g., Word, VLC).
3. Right-click → End Task.
4. Try deleting the file.

Method 3: Restart the Computer

1. Restart your PC to close any background processes.
2. After rebooting, try deleting the file.

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Step 3: Use Command Prompt to Delete the File

If the file still won’t delete, force delete it using Command Prompt.

Method 1: Delete Using DEL Command

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (cmd → Run as administrator).
2. Type the following command: del /f /q "C:\Path\To\File.txt"
   • /f → Force delete
   • /q → Quiet mode (no confirmation)
3. Press Enter and check if the file is deleted.

Method 2: Use PowerShell to Delete the File

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
2. Type the command: Remove-Item -Path "C:\Path\To\File.txt" -Force
3. Press Enter.

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Step 4: Check File Permissions

If you get an “Access Denied” error, the file may have restricted permissions.

Change File Ownership

1. Right-click the file → Properties.
2. Go to Security → Click Advanced.
3. Under Owner, click Change.
4. Type your username and click Check Names → OK.
5. Select Replace owner on subcontainers and objects → Apply → OK.
6. Try deleting the file again.

Grant Full Control

1. Right-click the file → Properties → Security.
2. Click Edit → Select your user account.
3. Check Full Control → Apply → OK.

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Step 5: Delete in Safe Mode

Safe Mode prevents background processes from interfering with file deletion.

Boot into Safe Mode

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot.
3. Click Apply → OK → Restart your PC.
4. Try deleting the file.
5. After deletion, go back to msconfig and uncheck Safe boot.

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Step 6: Use Disk Cleanup

If a file is system-related or corrupted, use Disk Cleanup:

1. Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr, and press Enter.
2. Select the drive where the file is located.
3. Check Temporary Files and Recycle Bin.
4. Click OK → Delete Files.

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Step 7: Use Third-Party Tools (If Needed)

If the file still won’t delete, use a file deletion tool:

• Unlocker – Unlocks and deletes files.
• IObit Unlocker – Removes locked files.
• FileASSASSIN – Deletes stubborn files.

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Step 8: Delete Corrupted Files Using CHKDSK

If the file is corrupted, use CHKDSK to fix it:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type: chkdsk /f /r C:
3. Press Enter and restart your PC.
4. Try deleting the file again.

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Step 9: Remove File via Linux Live USB (Advanced)

If Windows fails to delete the file, use Linux to bypass restrictions:

1. Create a bootable Linux USB using Rufus.
2. Boot from the USB and open File Manager.
3. Locate the file and delete it.

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Step 10: Verify Deletion & Empty Recycle Bin

After deleting the file:

1. Open Recycle Bin → Click Empty Recycle Bin.
2. Restart your PC to ensure the file is gone.

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