A program for deleting folders that cannot be deleted. How to delete undeletable files and save your nerves
Hello! I think all of you have come across very “arrogant” files or folders that did not want to be deleted. There was a connection between all these files and folders - they were open in some program. And if it is written that Microsoft Word- that’s understandable, just close it office editor and everything is fine.
What if Windows simply tells us that it cannot be deleted? How will we search? - That’s why there is a program for deleting undeletable files called Unlocker.
We are very lucky that this program is absolutely free, in the native Russian language and incredibly simple - understanding it will not be difficult. I'm posting as always setup files on your website.
Have you downloaded it? - Let's install! As usual, I’ll tell you step by step what and where.
Program for deleting undeletable files - how to use?
Installing the Unlocker program is straightforward, like all installation programs. First of all, we select the language that will accompany us during the installation process.
We don’t want to install various toolbars and other heresies... I even wrote about this in detail - how all this stuff can masterfully crap on our computer, taking away valuable system resources.
In the article I used latest version at the time of its writing (1.9.2), but during the time until you wandered into it - current version could have changed, so it is advisable to check for updates, you never know what interesting things have been added there and a bunch of glitches have been corrected. (I’m joking, I didn’t notice any glitches in the program’s operation, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any.)
It is also very desirable to integrate it into the explorer, for the convenience of working with the program, the best thing is... clicked right click from an undeletable file and found out what kind of infection is not letting it go to the trash bin 😉
So how do you use the program to remove undeletable files? Let's do an experiment. I have opened a document in Microsoft Word and am trying to delete it. Standard conductor Windows warns us that the file is in use and cannot be deleted.
Right-click on the problematic file and select “Unlocker”, i.e. we launch our program in relation to this very file (or folder, depending on what is not being deleted there)
In the program itself we see that the file is used by the WINWORD process - and this is our Microsoft Word. Select it and click the “Delete process” button. Word application will close automatically and the file can be easily deleted.
Here is our basket. We see that this malicious file was deleted without special problems. Now you can empty the Recycle Bin and forget about problems with undeletable files or folders forever.
Well, now you know that there is a program for deleting non-deletable files, and using it is as easy as shelling pears - anyone, even the most untrained user, can figure it out. Of course, experienced users, even without this program, know perfectly well what and what process prevents them from being deleted, but for beginners, this program is a real lifesaver. Sometimes even I forget that I have a hundred-year-old movie in my torrent and when I try to delete it, I get a message about the impossibility of performing this simplest operation.
That’s all I have, if you have any questions, ask them in the comments, I will answer everyone 😉 Have a good mood, I hope my note helped you.
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Deleting files and folders in Windows OS is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Yes, indeed, in most cases there are no problems with their removal, but very often you can observe situations where the removal of any component is impossible. Now we will look at the basic methods for correcting this situation, as well as some programs for removing unremovable locked folders and files. Such advice, I think, will be useful to many users of modern computer systems.
Basic problems with deleting files
Before we describe any program for deleting folders that cannot be deleted or locked files, we will consider the reasons for situations when the operating system itself blocks them, displaying a message that deletion is impossible.
There can be quite a lot of reasons, as is already clear. This primarily includes the use of attributes that block access to a particular component, the lack of access rights, the use of files and folders by some process in this moment, the presence of residual files after uninstalling applications that should be deleted only after full reboot systems, already deleted, etc.
Now we will briefly look at each situation, and then see which “program” for deleting non-deletable files or folders is best suited in each specific case. In addition, options for removing some components will be considered. standard means Windows without using third party software.
Using Attributes
Let's start, perhaps, with the file parameters installed in Windows. So, we have a problem, or a file that is not being deleted.
For frequently used text files And Microsoft documents Office can be used preview so-called attributes. The fact is that some users, when creating their documents, simply want to either limit access to them or avoid attempts to edit them by third-party users. In this case, they simply set the “Read only” attribute in the document properties.
It is clear that with this approach you can open the file, but you cannot make changes. In some cases, this extends to trying a folder or file that is not deleted, in this case? Everything is simple here. You just need to uncheck the corresponding field, after which the deletion will occur without any problems.
Closing problematic processes
No less common is the situation when even a program for deleting folders that are not deleted may not work only because at the moment one or more files located in them are occupied by some process.
Let's take the simplest case. Let's say we have some folder containing an executable EXE file that is responsible for launching the program. It is clear that if the program is currently running, it will not be possible to delete this folder. The system will display a message stating that the file is being used by such and such a process and will require you to close the application and then try again. But this is the simplest case.
If the file or folder is in use system processes, ending them even in the “Task Manager” is highly not recommended, as this can lead to the most dire consequences. This will be discussed a little later.
File permissions
Another situation where deleting files or folders can be problematic is lack of access rights. The simplest example is the creation of a document with administrator access rights.
Naturally, another user in his session, if there are local sessions of the administrator and several other users on one computer terminal (or in network environment), having rights restrictions, will not be able to remove such components. The solution to the problem is either to obtain the appropriate extended rights or to log in as an administrator.
Residual files after uninstalling programs
It also happens that when uninstalling some programs, messages appear stating that some residual files and the folders will be deleted after reboot. Here the situation is such that they seem to still be in the system (usually the user can see them even in Explorer), but in fact they are missing, or rather placed in another area of the hard drive that is inaccessible to the user. So it turns out that when you try to remove such components immediately, without waiting for a reboot, the system displays a message stating that the removal has already been performed.
In principle, if it is clearly stated that files or folders need to be deleted in manual mode, but for some reason they are not deleted, you just need to reboot the system and try again.
Uninstaller program iObit Uninstaller
In general, to uninstall programs it is better to use powerful utilities type iObit Uninstaller, which allow you to completely remove not only the program itself, but also the computer debris left behind, and even registry entries and keys.
If it concerns residual garbage (most often hidden from the user), such software packages will become a universal solution.
Using optimizers
In some cases, you can use optimizer programs like Advanced System Care, CCleaner, etc.
Such applications can not only optimize the operation of the system, but also remove garbage that can be disposed of standard methods impossible. For example, CCleaner, “tailored” for the Android OS, in combination with Root rights, completely and simply removes “native” applications installed on a smartphone or tablet. The same goes for complete removal some components in the Windows OS, because it is clear that some applications behave quite cunningly, and it is impossible to find them in the components, not to mention their location in the system, when all the components can be scattered across the entire hard drive or logical partitions.
Unlocker program to remove undeletable files
Now let's look at a universal tool for unlocking files and folders that are supposed to be deleted. Essentially, Unlocker is a “program” for deleting non-deletable files and folders that even have the system attribute.
Its advantage is that core team access unlocking is built into context menu, for example, "Explorer". To unlock it, just call it by right-clicking on the file and activate the corresponding line, after which you can delete any component with complete peace of mind. What's most interesting is that this application is included in Windows composition 7. If for some reason the program is missing, you can download it from the Internet. Honestly, you won't regret it.
The best programs to remove undeletable files
It is also worth paying attention to some third party utilities, no less interesting and powerful than Unlocker (and maybe even superior to it).
Let's start with the simplest utilities. File application ASSASSIN is simple program for deleting folders that are not deleted (and files in them), working like Unlocker, embedding own teams V Windows menu. It works, I must say, no less effectively.
Another similar utility operates on the same principle. This iObit Unlocker. As is already clear, it is based on the same principles.
But perhaps the most powerful and somewhat non-standard utility is a program for deleting folders that cannot be deleted and related files called LockHunter. What's so unusual about it? And the fact that, unlike many similar utilities, it has a two-level removal system, similar to how Windows operates in such cases.
At normal deletion the selected (by the way, unlocked along the way) files and folders are placed in the so-called system recycle bin, from which they can either be restored or permanently deleted. This approach allows you to avoid a situation with accidental deletion of any system components by inexperienced users, which, in turn, can lead to a complete “crash” of the entire system.
Conclusion
Of course, the list of programs can be continued indefinitely. But each user will decide for himself what to use as the main tool, since all applications have their own subtleties.
The Windows operating system is a constantly evolving and dynamic product. Therefore, many of the errors are fixed as soon as they are discovered, and users do not have to put up with them. However, there are things that are not implemented in Windows in the best possible way, and, frankly, are very annoying. I think each of you has repeatedly witnessed the error that a particular file or folder cannot be deleted or moved. Windows blocks access to these files because it “thinks” that it is currently in use by another application. But it is not always the case. This situation often happens with multimedia files.
It was for these purposes that it was created to combat this error. Unlocker utility 1.9.1. The program is incredibly easy to use. The next time you see a similar error, but you are sure that the file is not being used by any of the programs you have open, just right-click on it. You will see the Unlocker item in the context menu. A program window will appear showing the process (or processes) that is using the file. By clicking the "Unblock" button, you can delete it directly from this program window, or continue working with it from Explorer. When the program is not in use, it will only remind itself of itself with a small icon in the system area. Settings minimal amount- you can only choose to launch Unlocker with starting Windows, or not.
Unlocker currently supports everything Windows versions, including the latest ones, and can work with 64-bit editions. Due to its extreme usefulness, ease of use and laconic execution, we can safely recommend installing it to all users without exception.
Key Features and Functions
Helps remove locked files with the following error messages:
- I can’t delete a file: access is denied;
- a sharing error occurred;
- file in currently used by another program or user;
- make sure the disk has free place, it is not write-protected, and that the file in given time not used.
Often, users have to deal with such an unpleasant phenomenon as “undeletable” folders and files. The reasons for their appearance can be very diverse, from software error to the targeted action of the virus, but their essence boils down to one thing - retention by some visible or hidden process.
In some cases, a simple system reboot is quite sufficient to eliminate similar problem, but it also happens that a file or folder is stubbornly not wanted under any circumstances.
Attempting to delete an object regular means ends in failure. In this case, the user may receive various messages, for example, that the file is being used by another application. But, for example, such messages can cause attempts to delete folders with DOS-reserved names.
Of course, if you are an expert and perfectly understand the principle of operation operating system Windows, you may be able to quickly find the right solution, but what should simple users and completely unprepared for such surprises do?
The solution, as always, is simple - use special utilities to remove blocked objects.
Unlocker
Unlocker is perhaps the most famous Russian-language utility for deleting “undeletable” folders and files. Lightweight, free and extremely easy to use using Unlocker handles with ease even the most complex objects. The utility allows you to delete, move and rename folders and files blocked by system processes. The program will be useful in cases where an object is used by another application, with access rights restrictions, violations sharing and other common mistakes.
In particular difficult situations When a file cannot be deleted immediately, Unlocker will prompt you to delete it the next time you reboot the system. The utility's functions are controlled from the Explorer context menu. When installing the program, third-party modules may be integrated into the system, for example QuickStores bar, so be careful and uncheck the appropriate boxes in the installation wizard window. Download Unlocker: www.emptyloop.com
Any File Remover
Any File Remover – free utility to remove blocked objects. Unlike Unlocker, Any File Remover does not move or rename files, it simply deletes them. The utility works quickly, cleanly and without rebooting the system. Supports creating a list of objects to be deleted, manual setting rewrite method. Disadvantages include the lack of integration into the Explorer context menu, the inability to select an entire folder for deletion, and the absence of the Russian language, although during installation the user is prompted to select the Russian language.
MoveOnBoot
Free program for deleting, renaming locked folders and . MoveOnBoot has colorful graphical interface with support for changing themes and a rich set of additional functions. Can be used to remove faulty applications and even viruses that the antivirus program could not remove.
The application has a built-in Removal Wizard and supports working with system registry. Deleting, renaming and moving locked folders and files in MoveOnBoot is only possible after a subsequent system reboot, which is actually the main drawback of this program. The low popularity of MoveOnBoot was also contributed to by its heavy weight, lack of Russian language and integration into the Explorer context menu.
File Governor
File Governor - simple, convenient and free program for deleting “uncooperative” folders and files, a good analogue of Unlocker. “Indications for use” are the use of the object being deleted by a user or another application, access violations, as well as some other deletion errors.
File Governor also supports integration into Explorer, copying a file to a specified directory, searching for blocked files in selected directories, force termination processes, logging, unlocking selected files.
The utility has a simple interface, is lightweight, and works with most versions of . There is no Russian language.
FileASSASSIN
Very light, simple and free program from famous company Malwarebytes. The capabilities are comparable to Unlocker utility. Several methods can be used to open access to a file.
Built into the Explorer context menu, FileASSASSIN creates two separate items: Delete file using FileASSASSIN (forcefully delete a file) and Unlock file using FileASSASSIN (unlock, but do not delete). You can also schedule files to be deleted at a later date. reboot Windows. The main disadvantage of the utility is the lack of Russian language.
Conclusion
The utilities presented in this review are far from the only ones of their kind. There are many other, both simple and completely exotic tools and methods for solving the problem of “undeletable” folders and files.
Let's give just one example.
Get full access To file system, which means regular ones with a built-in file manager will help you delete anything.
By booting from such a disk, you can delete, move or rename any file or folder without any problems.