unable to delete file or folder

[dickcu]

After copying files from folders to another folder XP
won't let me delete the original folder saying it is in
use. No applications are running and the folder files
were copied to is closed with just a bare desktop
showing. This is now happening frequently. After a
restart I'm able to delete. This is not a shared
computer, a single Dell Inspiron 8000.

Would welcome any help. Thanks.

 

[Kelly]

Hi,

Very problematic issue in XP. Suggestions:

Close all open apps. Open a command prompt (Start/Run/CMD) and navigate to
the directory with the offending file(s). Then open the Task Manager and
click on the Processes tab, select "explorer.exe" under Image Name. Click
"End Process".

In the opened Command Prompt, DEL the offending files (DEL *.mpg, DEL
mus*.avi, DEL test.wmv, etc.) Once done, go back to the task manager and
click on the Applications tab. Click the "New Task..." button. in the
dialog, type explorer.exe and click OK.

Note: Could also opt for: ATTRIB -H -R -S filename before the DEL.

Can't Delete a File or Folder in XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_d.htm#del

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Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/top10faqs.htm