If the folder is not deleted

Deleting folders and files is part of the routine work on the computer. Few people think about all those complex processes occurring in the operating and file systems when the user's command to delete any information from the media. Users, the time-consuming shells like Volkov Commander, are accustomed to using a keyboard rather than a mouse, which significantly increases the performance of working with files, compared to using the menu options of the operating system. In this case, deleting directories and files is done by pressing the "Del" key on the desired element (file). Work with the buttons is possible not only in the conductor, but also in special shells, for example, Total Commander (TC, Total Commander) or FAR. Despite the fact that the approach to working with files (mouse or buttons) differs significantly, the result is the same, so we will not dwell on this later.

It would seem that it could be easier than sending a mouse cursor to the desired file in the explorer, pressing the right button (standard) brings up the menu and confirming the intention by selecting "Delete", but sometimes there are situations when the folder is not deleted. For a beginner, such a message is like snow on a hot summer day. In fact, there is nothing supernatural about this, and deleting undelete folders is available to everyone. Although it is associated with some additional actions, nevertheless, it is quite feasible.

Causes, due to which removal is impossible, a few. In general, you need to understand that if the folder is not deleted, then this operation is blocked over it. Most locks can be bypassed in one way or another, but first you need to determine the reasons. We list the most common reasons why the folder is not deleted:

• Action of the virus. Malicious programs very often block the ability to delete their files and folders, as this can lead to a violation in their work;
• On the directory a special program sets a password that restricts access;
• The access rights to the folder registered in the NTFS file system do not include the user attempting to delete the data, respectively, the folder is not deleted;
• A file system error.

The first point is obvious: the health of the virus depends on its folders and files. Sometimes such a program substitutes (or appends) a system file, the deletion of which is blocked by the system itself. Solution: scan the storage media with antivirus software. The locked folder will be deleted automatically.

When creating a file on a medium with NTFS file system , the descriptors write the name of the owner who created it. Those who have ever erased the Windows.OLD folder after reinstalling the Win 7 operating system, know that sometimes the folder is not deleted. This is due to the difference in the names of the user who wants to perform the deletion and the owner. Solution: you need to get the rights of the owner. To do this, select "directory properties - security - additionally - owner - change". Here we do not forget to tick the "Replace owner" checkbox, and in the list of users you need to select yourself (the user name to which you want to grant the deletion rights). Sometimes you can bypass these restrictions by loading Windows XPE from the LiveCD and deleting the desired directory (folder) from this shell. In this case, you do not need to change the owner. The method does not always work.

Often errors occur when the computer turns off or the power fails incorrectly in the file system. Especially this is subject to the FAT system (FAT32). NTFS is more fault-tolerant, but also not without such errors. Solution: if the folder is not deleted, you need to check the media for errors: "Disk properties - service - perform verification".

Advanced users are advised to install Unlocker. Upon request, it shows what exactly blocks the deletion of the file.