Delete Folder

chuckhig · 22 Feb 2015

Cannot delete this folder. Says it does not exist. Re-named it and still no success. Any help appreciated. I am afraid to download software because of spyware. Thanks....Chuck

RolandJS · 22 Feb 2015

Exactly what folder [on your desktop, correct?] are you trying to delete?

Lance1 · 22 Feb 2015

Here, check this out How to delete undeletable files & folders in Windows

chuckhig · 22 Feb 2015

Nothing so far worked. Used unlocker and delete doctor. Afraid of command prompt. Will keep reading . I will get back. Thanks.

Midori · 22 Feb 2015

Hello chuckhig,

I once had a customer with the same problem as you.
It seems this is caused by the fact Windows does not like folders/files ending with a DOT, but NTFS allows all kinds of filenames:
blog.dotsmart.net/2008/06/12/solved-cannot-read-from-the-source-file-or-disk/

To remove the offending folder, execute in CMD:

Code:

RD /S "\\?\C:\Users\Chuck\Desktop\bb."

RD removes a directory, /S will make it also remove Subdirectories.

If that does not help, could you try executing Check disk:
Disk Check - Windows 7 Help Forums
That way you can verify if the cause could be Filesystem errors.

Else you could also get yourself a Linux mint Bootcd (I recommend Mate or Cinnamon) and remove the folder from there.
Main Page - Linux Mint
Don't install it, just run from the DVD.

Good luck ^^.

NimoTony · 22 Feb 2015

chuckhig said:

Nothing so far worked. Used unlocker and delete doctor. Afraid of command prompt. Will keep reading . I will get back. Thanks.

did you try 1--restarting machine? or 2 restart in 'safe mode' and try deleting?

chuckhig · 22 Feb 2015

Started in safe mode..same result..used CMD with remove code and get message the file does not exist. Still working on this.

Midori · 22 Feb 2015

chuckhig said:

Started in safe mode..same result..used CMD with remove code and get message the file does not exist. Still working on this.

Ok, could you try the command again, but without the DOT at the end of the foldername:

Code:

RD /S "\\?\C:\Users\Chuck\Desktop\bb"

chuckhig · 22 Feb 2015

Yes,without the DOT worked. Thank you very much. This folder/file was originally an aircraft. Deleted it and this was left behind. Your patience is much appreciated. Life is good. Chuck

Midori · 22 Feb 2015

Good to hear your problem is solved,

If you want to know, '\\?\' allows you to modify a file without the Windows filesystem Api getting in your way.

Have a fine day ^^.