Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Using the program
• Method 2 of 2: Using the command line
• Tips
• Warnings

If you receive an error message when you try to delete a file, the system is most likely infected with malicious code. In some situations, the file is used by the main Windows programs, for example, Explorer, so the file cannot be deleted. These "difficult" files can be removed if you complete the process manually or use a free third-party program.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Using the program

1. 1 Download a program to delete files. There are many free and safe file removal programs like Unlocker, LockHunter, and FileASSASSIN. These programs are also used to remove malicious files. Download the program from the website of its developer.
2. 2 Double click on the downloaded program. If you downloaded FileASSASSIN, a window will open asking you to select the file to delete. If desired, manually enter the path to the file or click Browse or Browse at the bottom of the window. In other programs, the process for deleting a file will be much the same.
3. 3 Delete the file. When you select a file, click on it and then click Delete or Delete.
4. 4 Click Execute or Execute. The file will be deleted; the program window can be closed. If you want, go to the folder where the file was stored to make sure it was actually deleted.

Method 2 of 2: Using the command line

1. 1 Reboot your computer. If you have problems with your computer, we recommend that you restart it first and try to fix it before moving on to more drastic measures. If the file is still not deleted, read on.
2. 2 Open a command prompt. To do this, open the Start menu and type “CMD” or “Command Prompt” (without quotes) in the search bar. You can also press the keys ⊞ Win+R.
3. 3 Right click on "Command Prompt". Now select "Run as administrator" from the menu.
   1. You must have administrator rights to complete this method.
4. 4 Wait for the black window to appear. In it, you will enter a command to delete the file.
5. 5 Enter the command. Team: DEL / F / Q / AC: Users Your username File location File name.
   1. For example, if you are trying to remove the "unwanted.exe" file from the desktop, enter the command DEL / F / Q / AC: Users Your username Desktop unwanted.exe.
6. 6 Hit Enter. The file will be deleted. If you want, go to the folder where the file was stored to make sure it was actually deleted.

Tips

• If you are unsure, ask the specialist to delete the file.
• There are programs for Windows XP that automatically delete files.

Warnings

• Be careful not to delete system files - this can lead to system crash or damage.