can't delete what seems like a virus- how to fix?

It can still say that when it is a virus. Solution is to click Win + R and then type mrt and click yes. Click full scan and click continue. You will see all viruses, malware, ransomware, etc. Also, did you click any unauthorized links before this?

found a file on my admin account that shouldn't be there and seems to be a redirect virus. however, when i try to delete it, i get an error message saying i cant delete the file because it's running in explorer.exe. pretty sure that's a windows installed file, so i don't wanna mess with that. explorer isn't open in task manager or any windows or accounts, whats my fix for this?

See if this assists you:

Download, install, update and scan your System with the free version of Malwarebytes AntiMalware and if necessary do this in Safe Mode with Networking if the virus stops installation in Normal Mode:

http://www.malwarebytes.org/products/malwarebytes_free

"Advanced startup options (including safe mode)"

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/advanced-startup-options-including-safe-mode#1TC=windows-7

Also run the system file checker to ensure the Windows Kernel programs have not been altered:'

Start,

Accessories

RIGHT-click on Command Prompt

Select Run as administrator, verify

Type sfc /scannow

It will take a few minutes. At the conclusion it will tell you if it had to fix anything. It could even tell you it did find something but could not fix it. If that happens run it again.