Reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 and how to force delete them

While working in the digital world, you often come across files that cannot be deleted. This is a particularly common problem for Windows 10 and 11 users, and this article will explain its main causes and solutions in detail. Learn why files cannot be deleted and how to force delete them. These problems may seem difficult at first glance, but if you take the right steps, solving them is never far away.

Possible reasons for not being able to delete files include:

• Not authorized to handle files
  In this case, log in with administrator privileges or consult your computer administrator.
• Close the app that has the file open
  If the app has the file open, it is locked and cannot be deleted.
• File path is long
  If the file path or file name is long, it cannot be deleted. Place files in shallow directories and shorten file names

What are the main causes of files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11?

The main reasons why files cannot be deleted in Windows 10 or 11 are access permission issues, files being opened in other programs, file name length restrictions, and file system issues.

Specifically, if a file is being used by another program, the system locks it and restricts access. This prevents users from deleting files. Additionally, Windows has a certain length limit for file names, and if this length is exceeded, the file may not be able to be manipulated. Additionally, file system problems can also cause files to become corrupted and impossible to delete.

For example, if you try to delete a Word file while it is open, a message saying "Another program is open" will appear and you will not be able to delete the file. Also, files with long file names exceeding 256 characters may not be able to be deleted due to their length.

Therefore, the problem of not being able to delete files in Windows 10 or 11 is often caused by access permission issues, the file being opened in other programs, file name length limitations, or file system issues. You can say

Cause 1: No access rights

In conclusion, one of the reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 is lack of access rights.

Unprivileged specifically refers to a situation in which a user does not have permission from the system to operate on a particular file. As part of its security, Windows restricts access to certain files, such as important system files and other users' private files. If a user attempts to modify or delete such a file, the system prevents it, resulting in a state where the file cannot be deleted.

For example, if you try to delete a system folder or important configuration file, Windows will prevent you from doing so by displaying a message like ``Access is Denied'' or ``Administrator privileges are required.'' This is an important feature for Windows to prevent system instability caused by user errors.

Therefore, one of the main reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 is that the user does not have the appropriate access rights to the file, that is, the user does not have access rights.

 Cause 2: The file is in use by another program

One of the main reasons why a file cannot be deleted in Windows 10 or 11 is that the file is being used by another program.

The reason is that Windows has multiple programs running at the same time, and these programs open and use different files as needed. However, if a program is using a particular file, the file is "locked," restricting changes from other programs or users. This is an important feature to maintain data consistency and results in a situation where files cannot be deleted.

For example, if you have a document open in Microsoft Word and you try to delete it, you will receive a message that says, "The file is open and cannot be deleted." This is because Word is using the document and Windows has locked the file.

In conclusion, the main reason for files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10 and 11 is that the file is in use by another program, that is, the file is "locked."

Cause 3: File name is too long

One of the reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 is that the file name is too long.

The reason for this is due to the file name length limit set by the Windows system. Specifically, Windows restricts operations on files when the length of the file name (including path) exceeds a certain number of characters (usually 260 characters). This limit is a measure to maintain system stability, and files with file names longer than this limit may not be deleted.

For example, if you have a deep directory structure and each directory or file name is long, the resulting overall path can exceed 260 characters. In such cases, a situation arises where the file cannot be deleted with the message "Path too long".

Therefore, it is very common for file names to be too long to be deleted on Windows 10 and 11, and it is important to understand this limitation and take countermeasures.

 Cause 4: There is a problem with the file system

One of the major reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 is a problem with the file system.

The reason is that if there are errors in the file system, it becomes difficult to access the file and as a result, the file cannot be deleted. A file system is a system that manages the storage, retrieval, and access of files, and if its function is impaired, overall file operations will be affected.

As a concrete example, a sudden or improper power off of the computer may cause an error in the file system, making it impossible to open or delete certain files. Error messages may include "Please check this disk" or "This file or directory is corrupt and unreadable."

In conclusion, one of the main reasons why files cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11 is due to problems with the file system. To resolve this, you need to use system tools to check and repair disk errors.

 How to enable deletion of files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11

The main means to delete undeleteable files in Windows 10 is to apply specific methods that correspond to the cause of the problem.

This is because the following specific measures are required to address each cause. If you do not have access rights, take ownership of the file. If the file is being used by another program, close that program or use Task Manager to end the process. If the file name is too long, shorten it. And if there are problems with the file system, check and repair the disk for errors.

For example, if a program has the file open, close the program and try deleting it again. Alternatively, you may be able to delete the file by killing the program's process in Task Manager.

In conclusion, in order to delete files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10, it is important to take specific measures depending on the cause of the problem. Therefore, it is first necessary to understand the reason why it cannot be removed and then choose an appropriate countermeasure.

Solution 1: Close the application using the file

One solution to files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10 and 11 is to close the applications that are using the files.

The reason for this is that when a file is opened by an application, it is "locked" and other operations, especially deletion operations, are restricted. In order to delete a file, you must first unlock it. To do this, you need to close the application that has the file open.

For example, a document file opened in Microsoft Word cannot be deleted while Word is open. However, when you close Word, the document file is unlocked and can be deleted.

So, in conclusion, one of the solutions to delete files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10, 11 is to close the applications that are opening the files. This unlocks the file and allows deletion operations.

Solution 2: Restart Windows 10, 11

One of the effective solutions to get rid of undelete files in Windows 10, 11 is to restart the system.

The reason for this is that by rebooting, the OS closes all programs, which releases open files and resets file access restrictions. This is especially useful if you're not sure which program has the file open, or if the program doesn't close unexpectedly.

For example, a file may be opened by a program or service running in the background without your knowledge. In such cases, users may not understand why the file cannot be deleted. In these situations, restarting the system is the easiest and most effective solution.

In conclusion, one of the effective solutions for files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10, 11 is to restart the system, which will remove the access restriction to the file and make it possible to delete it. You will be able to do it.

Solution 3: Change the file owner

One of the effective solutions to deal with files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10 and 11 is to change the file owner.

The reason is that if a user is not the owner of a particular file, that user may not have permission to delete that file. Therefore, changing the ownership of a file to the current user gives that user permission to delete the file.

Specifically, open the file's properties, select "Advanced" from the Security tab, and open the "Owner" tab. Then click Edit, enter your current username, and click Apply. This changes the owner of that file to the current user.

In conclusion, one of the solutions to delete files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10, 11 is to change the file owner to the current user. This method gives the user permission to delete that file.

For advanced users: Forcibly delete files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11

As a solution for advanced users, there is a way to force delete files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11.

The reason is that in some difficult situations or special file types, normal methods do not work and require additional technical skills and knowledge. Therefore, here we will introduce methods using safe mode, command prompt, and a dedicated removal tool.

Specifically, start your computer in safe mode and delete the file, or open a command prompt and enter the command "del /f /q file path".

This is a command that forcefully deletes a file. You can also forcefully delete files using free software like Unlocker or FileASSASSIN.

In conclusion, there is a way for advanced users to forcefully delete files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11. They are designed to deal with specific difficult situations or special file types, and can be used to address problems that cannot be solved using normal methods.

Forced deletion method 1: Delete in safe mode

In conclusion, one of the advanced methods for forcibly deleting files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10 and 11 is to delete them in safe mode.

That's because Safe Mode starts only minimal drivers and programs, which greatly reduces the number of processes that get in the way of deleting files. Therefore, files that cannot be deleted in normal mode may be able to be deleted in safe mode.

How to start in safe mode in Windows 10

While holding down the Shift key, click the Start button → Power → Restart.

How to boot into safe mode in Windows 11

1. Hold down the Shift key and click Restart...
2. Select Troubleshoot...
3. Select Advanced options...
4. Select [Startup Settings]…
5. Click [Restart]...
6. [4] Press the key...
7. Boot in safe mode.

Therefore, in conclusion, as a forced deletion method for advanced users, safe mode deletion is very useful and can be an effective method for some difficult file deletion problems.

Force removal method 2: Using command prompt

Using the command prompt is an effective method for advanced users to forcefully delete files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11.

The reason is that the command prompt allows you to perform types of file operations that are not possible through the Windows GUI. This allows lower-level access for situations where a particular file cannot be deleted.

Specifically, first search for "cmd" and open a command prompt with administrator privileges. Then, go to the directory of the file you want to delete, enter and execute the command "del /f /q file path".

In conclusion, using Command Prompt is one of the effective advanced methods to force delete files that cannot be deleted in Windows 10, 11, and allows you to manipulate files at a deeper level.

Forced deletion method 3: Utilize special tools

As an advanced method for forcibly deleting files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11, we recommend using a dedicated deletion tool.

The reason is that these tools automatically perform complex file system operations for you and provide advanced features to eliminate problems with files that cannot be deleted.

Examples include free tools such as Unlocker and FileASSASSIN. These tools are capable of forcefully deleting files that are locked by other processes. To use it, simply drag and drop the files you want to delete onto the tool and follow the instructions.

Please see this page for instructions on how to use Unlocker →Free file deletion software Unlocker
Please see this page for instructions on how to use FileASSASSIN →Installing and using FileASSASSIN

Therefore, in conclusion, using a dedicated tool is a very effective method for advanced users to forcefully delete files that cannot be deleted on Windows 10 and 11. These tools have the ability to automatically resolve issues that cannot be removed.

Safety measures after file deletion: How to recover accidentally deleted files

There are multiple ways to recover accidentally deleted files, and these are important safety measures for Windows 10 and 11 users.

The main reason why this measure is needed is that if you accidentally delete an important file or accidentally replace a file that was supposed to be deleted with another file, you need a way to restore the file. It's from. Additionally, if your data is lost due to failure of your hard drive or other storage device, you may be able to recover your important information if you have the right recovery methods.

Specific methods include using "recovery from trash", "Windows file history", and "data recovery software".

1. Recover from Trash: Deleted files will be moved to Trash first. Open the Trash, right-click the file you want to restore, and select "Recover" to return the file to its original location.
2. Windows File History: Windows has a backup feature called "File History". When enabled, a version history of files is saved and you can undo deletions or changes.
3. Data recovery software: Professional data recovery software allows you to retrieve data even if the file system is corrupted or the hard disk is physically damaged. "Recuva" and "EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard" are popular.

In conclusion, safety measures to recover accidentally deleted files are an important part of daily computer use. Users can use appropriate measures to keep their important files safe.

Common “files cannot be deleted” scenarios and countermeasures

Windows 10 and 11 users may frequently encounter the "files cannot be deleted" scenario, but countermeasures require a certain level of knowledge and understanding.

Problems with files that cannot be deleted commonly stem from several causes. This could be due to lack of access privileges, usage by another program, length of the file name, or an issue with the file system. When these situations occur, normal delete operations may not work.

Specific scenarios and corresponding countermeasures are detailed below.

1. "The file cannot be deleted because it is open": This happens because another program is using the file. As a workaround, try deleting it again after exiting the program.
2. "This action cannot be completed. The file may be open": This problem occurs because Windows locks the file. Restart Windows or use specific software to unlock it.
3. "Pass too deep": This happens because the file name is too long or the directory is too deep. To resolve this issue, shorten the file names or simplify the directory structure.

In conclusion, these "file cannot be deleted" scenarios may seem difficult at first glance, but they are solvable with the right steps and tools. When a problem occurs, identify the cause of the problem and take appropriate measures.

Overcoming file deletion problems: Summary

Through this article, you have gained a better understanding of the common problem of "files cannot be deleted".

You understood the causes, such as permissions issues, file usage by other programs, file name length, or issues with the file system itself, and learned specific steps to address each issue.

But if these methods don't work for you or you have technical difficulties, don't forget to seek professional help.