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Files Won’t Delete on Windows 11? 4 Ways to Force Erase Them
You can force delete files using certain commands in the CMD
4 min. read
Updated onAugust 12, 2024
updated onAugust 12, 2024
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Resolve multiple Windows PC issues and speed up your PC effortlessly with specialized software.
If you can’t delete your files on Windows 11, this guide is for you. Many users complained about the same thing, but today we’ll show you how to permanently remove any file from your PC.
Just follow the steps below to get rid of them ASAP.
First of all, let’s clear some things out:
Why is my PC not letting me delete files?
What can I do if files won’t delete on Windows 11?
Before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps, we recommend you observe the following preliminary checks:
1. Close and restart File Explorer
Restarting File Explorer will resolve any locks or malfunctions causing it to be unable to delete files.
2. Get complete control over the file
The above steps will help assign enough rights to alter the file if you don’t have the necessary permissions to delete the files.
Check our guide about ways toreset permissions on Windows 11if you can’t get around the steps above.
3. Use Command Prompt to force delete the file
The /f flag forces deletion without prompting for confirmation. It runs the file deletion process without any permission or security access.
4. Delete files in Safe Mode
5. Check file permissions
Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and processes, which can help bypass any issues preventing file deletion.
You can read our guide on what to do ifSafe Mode is not workingon Windows 11.
In conclusion, you can check our article about how to fixFile Explorer freezing or not respondingon Windows 11.
Feel free to leave your questions and suggestions in the comments section below.
More about the topics:File Explorer,files
Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.
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Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills.
