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Unable to delete folder, access denied in Windows 10 [Fix]
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Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
We know someWindows 10users are having issues deleting a folder or a specificfilewithin the operating system.
If that is also your case, you are in luck. The tutorial below will show you exactly how to fix theUnable to delete folderdue to access denied issue.
First of all, if you are unable to delete a specific folder inWindows 10, it might be becauseyou don’t have enough administrative privilegeson your current user. Or perhaps thefile or folder is in use by another applicationyou accidentally left open.
What can I do if I am unable to delete a folder open in another file or place?
1. Log in as administrator
You will first need to find out if you have enough privileges on yourWindows 10device to delete a specific folder.
2. Use dedicated software
If you’re unable to delete user folders in Windows 10 using conventional methods, you might want to try a different, more professional approach.
Using dedicatedfileerasure software comes with many advantages. You will be able to permanently erasefilesthat are beyond the scope of data recovery.
This type ofsoftware will delete undeletablefiles by unlocking or force removing them from your PC. The process is very easy for the user, you just have to select what you want to remove.
You can even schedulefileerasure and generate comprehensive reports of erasure with perfectly scalable and cost-effective results.
3. Close active apps using the folder
Make sure you don’t have an application that uses the folder you are trying to delete.
Example:If you have a movie or music in the folder you are trying to delete and thefilesare used by amedia player, then you will not be able to delete that specific folder until you close all the applications that use thosefiles.
Note:If you closed the applications and you still have the sameerror messagewhile trying to delete the specific folder, then you should reboot yourWindows 10device and try again.
4. Clean Boot your PC
Try Entering the Safe mode feature inWindows 10and try to delete the folder from there.
You might have an application that is present in the startup feature of Windows and by using the safe mode feature your system will start only with the programs necessary forWindows 10to run.
5. Additional troubleshooting solutions
If the problem persists, here are some additional workarounds that may help you fix it:
There you have it, you don’t really need to be a computer specialist to perform the steps above and delete yourfilesand folders inWindows 10in just a couple of seconds.
Feel free to leave your questions or suggestions regarding this post in the comments section below.
More about the topics:All the Windows 10 tips you need to Know,delete folder,windows 10 fix
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
