Sometimes when you try to delete a file, a notification appears that the file is occupied by another application and cannot be deleted. The reason for this is that at the moment a process is taking place in the operating system that uses this file, so its deletion is impossible. Of course, it is very frustrating when it is impossible to delete a file on your own computer. But this does not mean that it cannot be removed at all.
Necessary
- - Computer with Windows XP;
- - Unlocker program.
Instructions
Step 1
In order to delete this file, you need to close the program that uses it. If you know what kind of program it is, then do so. Press the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Esc. If you are using the Windows XP operating system, the Task Manager will appear immediately after pressing these keys. Alternatively, press Ctrl + Alt + Del and a window will open. In this window select "Task Manager".
Step 2
After opening the Task Manager, go to the "Processes" tab. Next, in the "Description" section, look for the name of the program. After you find the program, right-click on it. A context menu will appear. In it, select "End Process". A window will pop up with a warning about possible data loss. In this window, also click End Process. After the process is complete, you can safely delete the file as it is no longer used by any process.
Step 3
If you have no idea what program can use the file you want to delete, then you first need to find out the name of this program. This can be done using the Unlocker program, which is completely free. Download it from the Internet and install it on your computer hard drive. You do not need to launch Unlocker. After installation, it will start automatically.
Step 4
Now click on the file you want to delete with the right mouse button. Then select Unlocker from the context menu. A window will appear. This window will contain information about the process that is blocking the deletion of the file. Click on this process with the left mouse button. Then, at the bottom of the window, click on the "Kill Process" option. Wait a few seconds. The program window will close. Now the process that was blocking the deletion of the file is removed. Right-click on the file and select "Delete" in the context menu.
