Cannot delete file on external HDD

Page 1 of 2 12 LastLast

  1. Posts : 174
    Windows 7 Pro 64 bit
       #1

    Cannot delete file on external HDD


    Hey,

    I can't seem to delete this one file (Munich [720p].mkv) on my external HDD. I've tried rebooting and deleting from safe mode, using "unlocker", toggling the "enable thumbnails options" in gpedit.msc and cmd commands but i always get this message when i go to delete it "this action cannot be completed because the file is open in windows explorer". Any tips? Thanks.

    *would trying to delete the file on another computer work?
    Last edited by chaosrealm93; 05 Mar 2014 at 20:35.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 32
    Windows 7 64-bit
       #2

    Try deleting the file through the command prompt. If all else fails get a copy of Ubuntu and delete it from there.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 174
    Windows 7 Pro 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #3

    huh...... ubuntu did the trick. never thought of that myself.. thanks!
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 32
    Windows 7 64-bit
       #4

    When in doubt use the sudo judo
      My Computer


  5. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #5

    A reboot of Windows should also release the handles.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 174
    Windows 7 Pro 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #6

    whs said:
    A reboot of Windows should also release the handles.
    first thing i tried. it didnt work
      My Computer


  7. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #7

    chaosrealm93 said:
    whs said:
    A reboot of Windows should also release the handles.
    first thing i tried. it didnt work
    Hmm, that is the first time I have seen that a handle was not released with a reboot. But that is good to know. Thanks for the feedback.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 174
    Windows 7 Pro 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #8

    whs said:
    chaosrealm93 said:
    whs said:
    A reboot of Windows should also release the handles.
    first thing i tried. it didnt work
    Hmm, that is the first time I have seen that a handle was not released with a reboot. But that is good to know. Thanks for the feedback.
    me too. i've had the same problem happen in the past, but 9/10 times a reboot would fix it. that's why i was particularly frustrated this time
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 174
    Windows 7 Pro 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #9

    Alpha said:
    When in doubt use the sudo judo
    whats sudo judo?
      My Computer


  10. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #10

    Well, sudo is a linux term that stands for Super User Do - I think. The Judo is just a gag that rhymes. Super User Do is the Linux equivalent to 'Run as Admin'.

    It is always a good idea to have a selection of Linux tools in the drawer. This is my wonder weapon:

    Emergency Kit - save your files from a dead OS
      My Computer


 
Page 1 of 2 12 LastLast

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 14:08.
Find Us