Delete Files or Folders Locked by Windows Via Unlocker 1.8.7
Sometimes when you want to delete a file or folder from your desktop, you will get frustrated when the Windows prompt you a message: “Cannot delete Folder: It is being used by another person. Close any programs that might be using the file and try again”. Of course other flavors you might frequently see include: “Cannot delete file: Access is denied”; “There has been a sharing violation”; “The source or destination file may be in use”; “The file is in use by another program or user” and “Make sure the disk is not full or write-protected and that the file is not currently in use”.
These annoying messages understandably drive you mad as you can’t delete the files. The undeleted files will remain in the desktop and continue to be an eyesore for you. If you close all folders or programs and the recalcitrant Windows still doesn’t allow you to delete them, try Cedrick Collomb’s free Unlocker tool. Unlocker is a freeware and you can download it for free. Once you have installed it, the application’s shortcut will be added into your shortcut menu. To delete a folder or file locked by Windows, just right click the file or folder and select Unlocker in the shortcut menu. If the folder or file is locked, a window listing of lockers will appear. You can choose to unlock the files or select actions to be taken such as “Delete”, “Rename”, “Move” or “Copy”.
Unlock Files or Folders
This free tool is quite useful to remove your unwanted files if Windows doesn’t allow you to do so. Get the latest Unlocker 1.8.7 via the direct link here.
Another alternative is FileASSASSIN from Malwarebytes.
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Unlocker didn’t work for me (although hadn’t tried in safe mode) but FileAssasin did.
I guess just shows how important it can be to have a variety of tools available.
I’ve been at it all day & late into the evening.
unlocker worked great. fileAssasin didn't.
Thanks both-ways.
it works!!! thanks a lot…
Download site was tagged as unsafe. Any more alternatives?
works nice!!! | ty
do not forget to uncheck “eBay shortcuts” during installation.
[...] files from being locked or used by other applications. For instance users can try utilities such as Unlocker, FileASSASSIN or File and Folder Unlocker as introduced in our previous post. Besides these [...]
You may also try using another similar tool: LockHunter (http://lockhunter.com). Does almost the same job, the main difference is that it foolproof from accidental deletion of a file, has more clear interface, allows to delete locking programs physically from the disk which allows to fight against malware processes. 64 bit version will be available soon.
Free as well and clear – it doesn't contain any eBay links or another crap.
ooooha!!!! IT Works!!
ehehehhehehe……
Tks!!!
[...] your system to help identifying the locking process easily at no cost. Other alternatives include Unlocker, File and Folder Unlocker and [...]
[...] than using Unlocker, Malwarebytes also develops FileASSASSIN which can be used to force delete a locked file or folder [...]
Martin
you idiot. it craps ur pc with ebay links because of your disability to read the installation options. you should have unchecked
"eBay shortcuts" during installation.
Beware! Unlocker will spam your computer with eBay links in every place it can.
Shame it doesn't work properly on Vista x64 though.