Delete Undeletable File

Sometimes files can become corrupt, in which case Windows XP prevents you from deleting them and displays an error message that says the files cannot be deleted because they are currently in use. Even if you reboot your computer and try to delete the files again, usually you see the same error message. To force Windows to delete the files, try the following steps...

To delete common files:

1. Close all open documents and programs that are currently running.

2. Shut down your computer, and then reboot it.

3. Return to Windows and try to delete the file again.

4. If you still can’t get rid of the file, shut down your computer.

5. Turn on your computer and immediately press the F8 key on your
keyboard several times until the Windows Advanced Options Menu
screen appears.

6. Use the up or down arrows on your keyboard to select Safe Mode,
and then press the Enter key.

7. The next screen displays the message “Please select the operating
system to start.” Assuming you have only Windows XP installed on
your system, press the Enter key. If you have more than one operating
system installed, use the up or down arrows on your keyboard to
select Windows XP, then press the Enter key.

8. Windows loads some software, which could take a minute or two.
Depending on how your version of Windows is configured, a login
screen or the Welcome Screen appears. If you see the login screen,
type your account name and password (if you have one), and then
press Enter. If you see the Welcome Screen, click the icon for the
account labeled Administrator or an account that has administrative
privileges, and then type your password (if you have one).

9. A message alerts you that Windows is running in Safe Mode.To
proceed, click the Yes button.

10. You can use Safe Mode in much the same way that you use the
regular Windows mode. Locate the undeletable file, and then try
deleting it again.

11. If you are successful, reboot your computer and return to the regular
Windows mode. If your efforts are not successful, seek the help of a
certified computer professional.

I hope this article useful for you!