Today, under my "software microscope" I had the imprudence to get a free program for permanently deleting files and folders called Alternate File Shredder.
Is it so good and reliable at spraying various computer files into atoms, without the possibility of restoring them by any means, methods and special programs, as the manufacturers claim? Let's check.
How to completely and securely delete a file or folder
Several times on the pages of this site, I described to you special recovery software accidentally deleted files. With their help, it was possible to return data even after formatting the disk.
But what if the task is to completely delete a file or folder, without a single chance of recovery (by bad uncles and evil aunts) ... so that no Recuva, Hetman Partition Recovery or Photo DOCTOR can resurrect them? Are there really no such programs?
We launch the program and specify files or folders for safe deletion ...
The “number of iterations” is the number of passes. On ssd disks, I do not advise you to abuse this figure (one pass is enough).
Click on the "Destroy files" button and confirm the complete deletion ...
(Oops, screen with deleting another file)
... we go to submit documents to any spy organization in the world ...
Checking the reliability of data deletion ...
... the Recuva program didn't even find anything similar to my deleted file, but it did find a huge heap of deleted files a couple of years ago.
I did not check the data with other resuscitators - I am sure that the result will be the same.
Download Alternate File Shredder
Alternate File Shredder, a program for permanently deleting files and folders, lives at this address - http://www.alternate-tools.com/
Its size is 909 kb. There are no viruses and installation difficulties. Has a multilingual interface (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, German, Korean, Czech ...). Works in absolutely any version of the Windows operating system.
Last but not least, do not confuse Alternate File Shredder with program removers... These are two different things. The hero of this article removes just individual files and folders, and does not uninstall programs previously installed on the computer.
P.S. I also ask you not to divorce the holivar in the comments about the fact that there are other programs with a similar function of reliable irrecoverable deletion - of course there is, but it was in this article that Alternate File Shredder was discussed.
When deleting some files using the OS, a notification appears that the operation cannot be completed because the file is being used by another program. Next, you will find out why this happens, and with what tools you can successfully remove unnecessary files.
Description of the problem
If you open a certain file of the registered type in the appropriate program, for example, a text editor or music player, it cannot be deleted just like that by switching from the editor to the Explorer and pressing "Delete". The operating system will not allow the erasure of data that is used right at the moment in the work of the PC. In this case, one process (launched by the user) tries to erase the file from the storage medium, and another process (launched by the operating system or another program) blocks the delete operation, believing that this will lead to a malfunction or some other problem.In fact, each of these processes is important and necessary, but it happens that the file to be deleted is not opened by any program, and at the same time, the OS does not allow it to be deleted. As a rule, this is due to the following reasons:
- Incorrect closing of the file by the program or incorrect termination of the program itself in the last session of its work.
- A virus entered the PC, and when it tries to delete the infected program or the virus itself, it tries to defend itself, not allowing itself to be easily eliminated.
- The OS thinks that some other user is currently working with the file - either from the same PC or via the local network. Whether this is really so - it may not be known, or even it is known that there is no other user and cannot be. But in any case, it is impossible to delete such a file.
Simple removal methods
Initially, we suggest that you use simple methods for solving the problem (listed in order of speed of execution):- Reboot your PC. Oddly enough, but quite often it is this simple measure that allows you to terminate all OS processes and then successfully delete an unnecessary file.
- Try to rename the file if you succeed - then try deleting it (do not forget to copy this file in advance if you may need it later).
- Transfer the file to another logical disk / flash drive. If it works, delete it from the new location.
- Check the file attributes (they can be changed in the "Properties" context menu item). Clear the read-only, hidden, system, archived attributes and try deleting again.
- Check the creation and last modification date of the file. If it is clearly inadequate (according to the OS, the file was created in 1980 or was last modified in 2060), try changing the date to a realistic one and delete it.
- If this file is typical and with the ability to change (for example, a text file in the format for “Word”), try opening it in the program corresponding to the file type, somehow change the content, save the data in a new version, close the program and try to delete it again ... The same method can work with atypical files, but the likelihood of a successful outcome decreases.
What should I do if I cannot delete a file / folder due to permissions?
File / folder access denied. To delete this file / folder, you need to have “Administrator” rights - if such a notification appears when you try to delete a file / folder, you need to reconfigure the access rights. To do this, you will have to do the following manipulations (example of deleting a folder):- Right-click on the folder, select "Properties" - "Security" - "Advanced".
- In the line "Owner" we change the user to the one under which you are currently working in the system. To do this, you can click "Check names", then put a checkbox in the line "Replace owner of subcontainers and objects" and click "OK".
- The "Windows Security" window will appear and for a while the OS will do the "Change of owner". Next, the PC will ask: "Do you want to replace the permissions for this folder so that you have full access rights?" Answer - "Yes".
- Then again we see the "Properties" window, the "Security" tab. Press the "Change" button with the drawn shield, that is, we will just change our access rights to this folder, including the right to delete. For each user, put a tick in the topmost row "Full access" and "OK".
- You will have to wait for a certain period of time, now your access rights to the folder and objects inside it will change. Do not forget to uncheck the "Read-only" item in the "General" properties tab, confirm this change of attributes as well.
After a short wait, you can usually safely delete the folder. If Windows asks for access rights again, try repeating the above procedure.
All manipulations to delete a locked folder or file can be seen in the video:
What programs can delete non-removable files?
If none of the above methods helped, then in such a situation you already have to use the tools to delete files.Unlocker
One of the most popular tools for deleting files in the CIS that does not want to be deleted is the Unlocker program. It can be downloaded by following the link to the developer's website: www.emptyloop.com.Important! Old versions of Unlocker may not work in 64-bit operating systems - Windows 7, 8, 10. Do not download old versions on unknown sites where the content has not been updated for a long time.
There are both installed (embedded in the operating system) and "portable" versions. Each version has its own minor merits and demerits, but the portable version is recommended for a one-time removal. However, if you have problems with deleting files regularly, then it is better to install Unlocker.
During the installation, it is possible to install the Unlocker Assistant. This program-assistant is constantly visible in the "Taskbar" and will be automatically launched in cases where there are problems with uninstallation.
It is very easy to work with the portable version of the program:
- Launch Unlocker.
- Select the desired file in the window that opens, and you will see processes that do not allow you to delete it. These are the "blocking descriptors".
- At the bottom left, you can select options for actions - delete, unlock, transfer.
Agree and reboot.
Unlocker analogs
Unfortunately, official support for Unlocker ended on Windows 7 (which usually does not prevent it from working normally under later OS versions), but for trouble-free operation under Windows 8 and Windows 10, it is better to use IObit Unlocker. The interface is very similar, Russified and generally does not cause any difficulties.Deadlock
Unlike the previous program, this one must be run on the computer in order to delete the desired file. You can download the application from the link: http://codedead.com/?page_id=822Instructions for using the program:
- Open the application and go to the "File" tab.
- Select the file to be deleted.
- Click on the file with the right mouse button, then select "Unlock" or "Remove".
The disadvantage of this program is that it only supports the English-language interface.
Using Live-CD or Live-flash
A radical way to get rid of an unnecessary file is to launch the operating system not from your PC's hard drive, but from a Live-CD or Live-flash. But this requires at least the Live-CD itself, plus a drive for it. It is better if you have a Live-flash (the same, but on a flash drive, you won't need a floppy drive), then a USB port will be enough:- Insert the Live-media into the PC, boot from it (you may need to enter the BIOS).
- Find the stubborn file on your HDD and erase it. The OS from the Live-carrier will not object in any case, since for it any file on your PC is a foreign body.
- Turn off your PC, remove the Live media and boot your computer. The previously undeleted file will be deleted.
How to remove non-removable programs
Some companies make it so that after installing their programs on your PC there are some additional completely unnecessary programs for you, and you did not give your conscious consent to their installation. If you cannot remove such programs from the list of "Programs and Features" by regular means along this path "Start" - "Properties" - "Programs" - "Uninstall a program", uninstaller programs will come to the rescue:- Revo Uninstaller Pro is one of the most popular programs for uninstalling other programs. Russified. Completely removes all references to the software being removed not only from the disk, but also from the registry. There is an autoload control; Irrevocably erases not only programs, but also unnecessary files; cleans the history of browsers (not all, you can check the version) and the history of documents in "MS Office"; automatically updated. The unique "hunter mode" allows you to find and remove a program that is not registered in the list of programs.
- IObit Uninstaller Free - removes the entire package associated with the unwanted program. In addition, it has a function of forced removal, which helps to demolish the most "stubborn" programs. Allows you to "roll back" Windows updates. Disables browser extensions and plugins. Creates a list of installed programs and saves to a file. Keeps a history of its work (uninstallation of programs).
- Advanced Uninstaller Pro. Removes cookies, customizes toolbars in browsers. Optimizes the registry file. There's even a font manager for Windows!
How to delete non-removable files from a USB flash drive
Most of the above methods are suitable for deleting files from a USB flash drive. Plus, you'll always have a last resort in stock - full formatting. After it, no files, folders, or viruses will remain on the flash drive.So, if a situation has arisen where it is impossible to delete a file using conventional means, because the operating system (more precisely, some of its visible or hidden process) considers that the files are still in operation, you can use the above instructions to successfully complete the deletion and get rid of the unnecessary file.
Many files in the Windows system are blocked from deletion, as they can entail a series of changes. It is highly discouraged to delete such files and folders so as not to harm the entire operating system, however, if you are an experienced and confident computer user, you can try to get rid of such files. In addition, many programs and applications leave behind non-removable files, which, in turn, can take up an impressive amount of memory. This "garbage" from programs must first be unlocked with special software, only then it can be deleted like a regular file. In this article, you will learn how to delete residual files, as well as eliminate the causes of some locks.
How to delete a non-removable file: check the processes in the task manager
You cannot even erase a simple photo or picture while it is running in the system processes. For example, you just watched a movie and want to delete it from your computer, but Windows gives an error. Most likely, your video file remained running in the player and simply cannot be deleted because of this. Go to the task manager and make sure that you do not have any open processes that can use the unrecoverable file.
- Hold down the CTRL + SHIFT + ESC keyboard shortcut. A window with the name "Windows Task Manager" will open in front of you. Here you can see all running applications, stop them or close them altogether.
Go to the "Processes" tab.
- Take a good look at what processes you have open. Perhaps one of them is using the correct file.
To close this process, click on it once with the left mouse button and click on the “End Process” button in the lower right corner. - The process will be stopped and the file will be released. Now delete the required file as usual. Windows won't hurt you anymore.
How to delete a non-removable file: cleaning the registry
A file remaining in the registry or somehow related to it cannot be deleted from the computer. Before cleaning the registry, think carefully if you have the skill to do this. There are two possible cleaning options: with your own hands and through specially created computer cleaning programs. The first method is suitable for advanced users and is more reliable.
Cleaning the registry yourself
Open the search box by clicking on Start in the Explorer menu.
- In the search box write “regedit” and press the Enter key to start the search. At the top you will see the file you are looking for, click on it with the mouse.
- This will open the Windows Registry Editor. You need to work with this window very carefully and know for sure which files prevent you from deleting a folder or other file on your computer. The essence of the work is as follows: you find in the registry the folder that has not been deleted from the program or uses the required file and delete it.
- The folders are divided into system, program and user. Find the one you want using the menu on the left and delete.
Cleaning the registry with special programs
To save precious time and not delete unnecessary things, there are special utilities for working with junk on your computer. One of the most popular of these programs is called CCleaner. Download it from the developer's official website to completely uninstall programs, clean the registry, clear the cache of browsers and other utilities.
- Visit the official website at the link http://ccleaner.org.ua/download and click on the field to download the program. It is possible to download two versions: portable and regular. The portable version is not installed on your computer, and you can drop it onto a USB flash drive or disk for use on other computers.
- Installing the software will take just a couple of minutes. Just follow all the instructions on the screen.
- Open the program after installation and go to the “CCleaner” tab. There will be a “Windows” section, in which you need to check the first five items in the “Windows Explorer” section and the seven in “System”. This will clear the cache, trash, registry and other unnecessary files that slow down your computer and prevent files from being deleted.
- Click on the “Run Cleaner” button and wait for completion. Try deleting your file now.
How to delete a file that cannot be deleted: unlock the file
Many programs put a lock on their files so that they cannot be removed even after the software has been completely erased from the computer. Usually, these files are designed to store information about the previous settings and program logs so that you can restore them if you want to install the software again. You can unblock such files only with special utilities, here is a small list for your choice:
- FileAssassin is a freeware program that is freely distributed. It will be used as an example in this article.
- Unlocker is the most popular program for unlocking files, it can even unlock some system folders and files.
- LockHunter allows you to work in the program as well as in the task manager, stopping all unnecessary processes.
- IObit Unlocker. The program supports the Russian language.
Go to the official FileAssassin download site and click “Download”.
In the folder where all the files you downloaded are saved, find and double-click on the FileAssassin.exe file
The installation process is not much different from other programs:
- Select the installation directory.
- Agree to the license agreement.
After the installation is complete, check the box next to the words “Run FileAssassin” and click “Finish”.
The program will open itself. On the first line, you need to specify the file that is not deleted. Click on the three dots on the right side of the window.
Select the file and click “Open”.
Make sure that you have selected the item “Attempt FileAssassin’s method of file processing”, and also the first three sub-items are ticked. Click “Execute”.
That's all. The lock on the file is completely removed, you can erase it like a regular file using the Delete key.
I think that almost every user of a personal computer has encountered a problem in which it is not possible to delete a file. This is primarily due to the fact that non-removable files are still in the process list, that is, they are being used by the system. For such cases, it will not be superfluous to use special programs for deleting non-removable files, which are capable of unblocking existing processes that prevent the deletion of the necessary files. Below is a list of just such programs with which you can delete files locked by the system.
At the top of this list is the Unlocker program, which allows you to delete files. This program is very easy to integrate into the "Explorer", which allows the user to make the right decisions when deleting unnecessary files. Unlocker is completely free software, but nevertheless very effective and easy to use.
After installing and running the program, you are presented with a list of all processes and the program that prevent you from deleting the file. But as always, the decision to delete or not delete files is yours. The application supports all versions of the Windows operating system, and also has a Portable version (run from a USB flash drive).
In second place is a program for cleaning and removing unnecessary files from the Windows system. Wise Registry Cleaner Free can remove unnecessary information from the system registry. You do not need to worry that some information will disappear without a trace, the program allows you to create backup copies of the registry.
One of the positive qualities of Wise Registry Cleaner Free is the ability to clearly separate the detected errors into safe and dangerous. Be very careful when eliminating dangerous errors, if you do not have enough experience, it is better not to fix them at all. Since this can lead to unstable operation of the OS. But safe, you can delete completely calmly, without fear. The user can set up an automatic mode of operation, in which the program will start, correct the errors found and automatically terminate its work.
This is a tiny freeware utility for removing non-removable files in the Windows operating system. FileASSASSIN's work is reminiscent of the above-mentioned Unlocker, but significantly inferior in functionality. After launching the program, you will see a window with a list of programs and methods for their removal.
To use the utility, you must have administrator rights on your computer. Besides uninstalling the program, FileASSASSIN can also clean your computer. The program can be accessed directly from the system tray. Unfortunately, the program interface is completely in English.
The next program in line is LockHunter, it is also free and is used to delete files by unblocking the processes in use. In fact, the program does not just delete data, but rather moves it to the system trash. This allows you to make the final decision to delete files yourself. Also, the program can find malware that slows down your OS.
The utility has in its arsenal some kind of protection, when using which, you will not be able to harm user data. The advantages of LockHunter include the ability to suspend the operation of dynamic libraries in processes and remove blocking processes from the hard disk.
And finally, the last program in our review, which is designed to delete protected files. The program will be very useful for cleaning the system and editing autorun. Also, it contains a utility for checking free space on your hard drive. EasyCleaner allows you to find duplicate files, delete temporary and unnecessary files. You can also configure work with files of the same type. In case of any errors, you can always return the system to its normal state by restoring it.
Download, use and get rid of your headaches! Remove files and programs that cannot be removed with standard Windows tools.
How do I delete a file or folder that is locked in Windows? To begin with, not every file or folder needs to be deleted: for example, important files of Windows itself are protected from user intervention, and to remove them, you will need to request permission from TrustedInstaller, a hidden system account that is head and shoulders above any administrator account. If we are talking about rare cases of a deliberate and controlled process of deleting files or folders, which is prevented by the system notification "Request permission from TrustedInstaller", full access with TrustedInstaller permission can be obtained in the properties of the deleted folder or file.
Removing locked non-system files and folders (user or work data of third-party software) is a less dangerous procedure, and there are, accordingly, simpler methods for these purposes. One is to close the process or program that is using the file to be deleted.
If the file or folder to be deleted is in use by an active process that cannot be terminated in a running Windows using the Task Manager, you can resolve the issue with the removal:
By rebooting the system;
In Windows Safe Mode;
Boot from Live-disks or even regular Windows installation media;
In another Windows or another operating system installed on a different partition or disk of the computer.
But it is much easier to delete a locked file or folder using special utilities - minimalistic programs for unlocking data. In some cases, they will not resolve the issue without restarting Windows, but they will definitely eliminate the need to boot from other media or another operating system. You don't even need to search for a program or process on your own that is blocking the deletion, renaming or movement of data. Unlocker utilities will close the required program or process by themselves. Naturally, provided that the operation of the system without a blocking process is possible. If not, in this case, the utilities usually promise that they will delete the problematic file the next time the system boots. Unlocking utilities, as a rule, are built into the context menu of the system explorer, offering a more convenient way to unlock files and folders than the form of adding them to the interface of the utilities themselves. Below we will consider three free utilities for removing files blocked in the Windows system.
1. Unlocker
Unlocker is perhaps the most famous utility from the category of file unlockers. When you launch it, you will have access to a Windows Explorer-style overview form to add files that you need to unlock, rename, move or delete.
Working with the utility from the context menu, on the locked file, respectively, select the item "Unlocker".
The Unlocker installer is configured to install into the system along with "appendages", you must carefully follow the steps of the installation wizard in order to uncheck the accompanying implementation of unnecessary software.
2. Lock Hunter
The Lock Hunter utility from Unlocker is distinguished by the ability to work not only with files, but also with locked folders. Lock Hunter provides a browse button inside its interface for adding locked folders or files, the utility is also built into the context menu of Windows Explorer in the form of the question "What is locking this file (folder)".
As a result of displaying locked folders or files in the utility window, you can unlock, delete, rename, move, complete their process (if possible).
3. UnlockMe
The UnlockMe utility, like the previous reviewers, works with locked folders and files as inside its own interface, providing buttons for adding data,
and by means of an option in the context menu of Windows Explorer.
UnlockMe does not offer functions for deleting, renaming or moving files, the utility only unlocks files, shutting down the interfering programs or processes (if possible). After unlocking with the UnlockMe utility, all the necessary operations with folders and files are carried out in the explorer or file manager.
