Deleted user but files remain -- undeletable


  1. Posts : 6
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #1

    Deleted user but files remain -- undeletable


    Hey all,

    I just deleted a user, and I want to totally get rid of it. When given the option to keep or delete the files, I said delete. However, when I go to C:\users\ the folder is still there, and it cannot be deleted. The icon shows a little lock.

    As an aside, I am trying to delete the first account I created upon install - but that doesn't seem like it should matter.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 6,618
    W7x64 Pro, SuSe 12.1/** W7 x64 Pro, XP MCE
       #2

    Does the account that you are operating from have admin rights? Some things require a higher level of admin rights than what are given simply by assigning admin rights in User Accounts, so you might have better luck if you enable the built-in administrator account and try it from there.

    You might also try using "Takeownership" on the files and folders that you want to delete.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 56
    Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
       #3

    Or of course you could search for a freeware programme which would delete the files rather than windows. I know tune up utilities is good for deleting and making sure no traces remain but that is payware software.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 1,443
    Win 7 Ultimate SP1 x64
       #4

    From the looks of it..The user account that you deleted had admin rights.
    That's why you see a small lock icon on the folder you're trying to delete.
    Should have change the user's account type to "standard user" before you delete it.

    Or try this..Go to the account folder..Right click on the files you want to delete and take ownership.See if it works.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 797
    Windows 7 Ultimate (x64)
       #5

    I do not think there is an "if" here. It only depends on whether the account you are working in right now has admin rights. If it does (and I believe it should since you were able to delete that other user account) - then simply take ownership of the files and folders you want to delete (don't forget to check the box to propagate permissions to all child objects), then change permissions to yourself - your current account that is - to "full control", and delete the files. That's it.

    To take ownership - right-click on the file (folder), go to properties, click on the security tab,
    click advanced, then owner tab.
      My Computer


 

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