Who cannot delete files in Windows XP? Sometimes Windows XP has problems and generates odd error messages while you are busy doing something seemingly harmless. One common issue regarding Windows XP is users’ inability to delete data files because they are being used by other users or other programs. In most cases, this is true without the users actually being aware of it, but in others, it is merely a case of the system getting the thing wrong and users cannot delete files.
Need Help… Cannot Delete Files…!
People receive three common error messages associated with “cannot delete files” situations. These appear after slight delays or come after the “Deleting file” dialogue window shows up: “File In Use, ” “Cannot Delete Files” and “File Access Denied.” Some include explanations or reasons that don’t make sense. While the explanations given mean something to technicians and programmers, they seldom are clear enough for novice users to understand.
Users can ensure the proper deletion of files using several tips. It is crucial that people run through the various steps so that inadvertently deleting useful files is avoided. Accidental deletion of files in use could spell trouble – system or other critical files might be removed.
- Change the options in Windows Explorer View. Right-click “Start” and choose “Explore All Users.” In the explorer window, click “View” and select “Choose Details.” See to it that only the option “File Name” is checked. Try deleting again. This will prevent Windows from trying to read as well as reference the files being deleted.
- Rename then delete. Another trick would be renaming the files in question and giving file deletion one more try. Occasionally, users might get the same error message as before but for the most part, this usually solves the problem. AVI files tend to have access errors. In renaming the said files, users are essentially tricking Windows into letting them fully and correctly delete them.
- Zap virus and spyware. If the problem persists and the files continue to reinstall or un-delete themselves, chances are there has been spyware or virus infection. Get decent antivirus or anti-spyware apps to resolve the issue.
- Restart the PC. Before opening other applications, open up Windows Explorer. Search for the troublesome files and attempt deletion from here. Some applications run upon PC startup and could be referencing the files users are trying to get rid of.
- Safe Mode boot-up. Launching the PC in safe mode is another option. This effectively minimizes the number of apps and processes that start with the PC.
- Close everything. All files and programs related to the files in question must be closed to ensure that users are not utilizing them and the apps themselves aren’t using the files anymore. Closing all of the pertinent programs upon saving changes to open docs ought to work. Once all of the applications have been closed, try re-deleting the files.
- Use free third-party program software. There are freeware online that allow for moving, renaming and deleting various files. If users cannot delete files, file deletion programs can be used to do the job. The instructions are pretty straightforward. The programs delete files as the PC restarts. This software-type bypasses whatever potential reasons are preventing successful file deletion.
- Use network shares that are as deep as the folders. Users can create a network share as deep in the folder tree as is possible and then proceed with renaming the folders by means of accessing the shares.
While extremely popular, the Windows XP operating system also has its share of kinks, especially when it comes to how to permanently delete files. Many firms and individuals use it as it provides great ease of use. XP systems are particularly prone to access issues that have to do with deleting files. Oftentimes, there are no clear reasons why users cannot delete files. But the above manual tips can be used to completely delete problem files. File deletion programs available on the Internet can also be used to resolve the problem.
