xp-can't delete file

Velcrow · 15-08-2005 05:00PM #1

Ok I canceled a download and part of the file was left on my desktop "audacity-win-1.2.3.exe" but when i try to delete it it says it is being used by another programme.

This file has been on my desktop for weeks.... I was ignoring it but now it has to go.....

I have used task manager etc - but with no luck... any advice

kaimera · 15-08-2005 05:02PM

safe mode.

delete file.

scion · 15-08-2005 05:09PM

Get the WhoLockMe Explorer Extension from here...

http://www.dr-hoiby.com/WhoLockMe/index.php

This program tells you what process is using the file, then go to the taskmanager and shut down the process if its from an application you installed

Tobias Greeshman · 15-08-2005 05:09PM

or go into the command prompt, move to desktop and delete it (works most of the time). Try Kaimeras option of booting in safe mode if the above doesn't work.

HOB-it · 15-08-2005 05:09PM

completley exit out of the download programe you were using. the prog may still be active in your system tray - now delete file -

Hobbes · 15-08-2005 05:25PM

silas wrote:

or go into the command prompt, move to desktop and delete it (works most of the time). Try Kaimeras option of booting in safe mode if the above doesn't work.

expanding on that. In the command prompt type...

AT \\computername hh:mm cmd

change Computer name to your computers name.
hh:mm to a time set about a minute in the future.

This will pop up a command box with System Privilages. You can basically do anything with it (kind of a super root).

If you don't know what I am talking about, don't mess with it.

smeggle · 15-08-2005 11:08PM

kaimera wrote:

safe mode.

delete file.

Same says I - 'Safe Mode = Main Administrator Control'. reboot and press F8/select 'Safe Mode' when option screen appears.

Another tip for xp users on that screen is an option called 'Start From Last Known Good Configuration'. If your computer starts running sluggish and programs are freezing (It happens in xp) - use that. Generally sorts it out. Defrag your drive/s after you reboot.

Velcrow · 16-08-2005 05:12PM

Thanks for the tips - tried command promt and safe mode - no go - will try the WhoLockMe Explorer Extension and let you know how I get on!

Tzetze · 16-08-2005 05:23PM

Had the same problem with an avi file recently.
Didn't try using the software mentioned which identifies the hogging process.

What worked for me was to boot into "safe mode command prompt only", navigate to the file and delete it from there.

Velcrow · 16-08-2005 05:24PM

Tzetze wrote:

What worked for me was to boot into "safe mode command prompt only", navigate to the file and delete it from there.

Ok, that combo I have not tried - cheers

Velcrow · 16-08-2005 05:25PM

Well done all - file now bye bye........... man that was really annoying me

xp-can't delete file

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