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Windows
Many times when trying to remove an unwanted program, especially a piece of adware or
spyware, you may run across a file that is undeletable by any normal method. When you try to
remove it you'll receive the error message shown below telling you "access denied" and
explaining the file may be in use. You may also receive one of the following messages.
Manual Method
If you already know the path to the file, please skip to Step 7
c:\windows\system32\undeleteablefilesname.exe
Example: to change to the Windows\System32 directory you would enter the following
command and Press Enter
cd \windows\system32
13. Now use the DEL command to delete the offending file. Type DEL <filename> where
<filename> is the file you wish to delete.
Example: del undeletable.exe
14. Use ALT-TAB to go back to Task Manager
15. In Task Manager, click File, New Task and enter EXPLORER.EXE to restart the Windows
shell.
16. Close Task Manager
This is a nice extension that loads into the right click menu. All you have to do is right-click on a
file and choose "Remove on Next Reboot" and the file will be deleted the next time the computer
restarts. Although it probably should only be used by more advanced computer users since it may
be TOO easy to delete files using this program.
Pocket Killbox
A simple .exe file that you can use to delete undeleteable files, although the program will also
delete temporary files, edit the HOSTS file, and more. A definite must have program when you
are fighting an annoying spyware or adware program that won't remove.
Unlocker
Unlocker is another program that runs from the right click menu. Its simple and very effective. The
website even has a side by side comparision of other programs that accomplish this task.
Using one of the three tools shown above, you should be able to remove those annoying
undeleteable files once and for all.