Can't delete program or folder because computer says its open in another software.

Question

Can't delete program or folder because computer says its open in another software.

Anonymous

when Microsoft going to fix "Can't delete program or folder because computer says its open even though it's not"

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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Answer 1

Hi Ruben!

This is Aeron, an Independent Advisor, Thanks for reaching out to the community.

When your computer says a program or folder is “open in another software,” it means the file or folder is currently in use either by a program you're aware of, or a background process. Here’s how you can fix that depending on your operating system:

Option 1: Close Programs Using the File

Close any programs that might be using the file/folder.

Try deleting again.

Option 2: Use Task Manager

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

Look for any processes that might be using the file (e.g., Word, Excel, or something related to the folder's contents).

Right-click and End Task.

Try deleting the file/folder again.

Option 3: Restart File Explorer

Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).

Find Windows Explorer in the list.

Right-click it and select Restart.

Option 4: Use Safe Mode

Restart your computer in Safe Mode.

Try deleting the file/folder there.

Option 5: Use a File Unlocker Tool

Tools like LockHunter or Process Explorer (from Microsoft) can show which process is using the file and unlock it.

Hope it helps your concern.

Regards,

Aeron C.

Independent Advisor

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Can't delete program or folder because computer says its open in another software.

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