One of the more frustrating experiences when using a computer is when you want to delete or rename a file or folder in Windows, but you get an error message stating that it is open, shared, in use, or locked by a program currently using it. Let’s see how you can delete or remove practically any file in Windows.

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Step # 1 - First method - shut down all programs or files
If we try to delete this file, for example, Windows tells us the file is being used so it can’t delete it. It also suggests we close any programs that might be using the file and try again.
The first method is to shut down all programs or files that may be currently using that file. When a program is using a file it tends to exclusively lock that file so it can't be modified or renamed while it's in use. By shutting down the program using it, you unlock that file or folder so that you can work with it.
Step # 2 - Second method - reboot your computer
A second method is to reboot your computer. This will shut down any open programs and when you access the system it will allow you to work with the file in question.
Step # 3 - Third method - reboot in safe mode
A third option is to reboot into safe mode and try to rename or delete the folder. When you are in safe mode a limited number of programs start up automatically. This provides a better chance to rename or delete a file.
Step # 4 - Fourth method - Download Unlocker software
A fourth method is to download a file-unlocking utility which will find the processes that are using the file and attempt to close them, so they can be deleted or renamed. There is a program called “Unlocker” that you can use for this. Go to this site to download the program: “www.filehippo.com/download_unlocker”.
Save it to your computer and double-click on the file to start the setup program. When the installation program starts, keep pressing the Next button until you get to the “Choose Components” option. Make sure there is a checkmark next to each component and then press the Install button. “Unlocker” will install, and, when it is completed, you should click on the Finish button.
Open Unlocker. You’ll see Windows appears with the main folders and subfolders. Locate the file you wish to delete, select it and press Ok.
This shows that a program is using the file and it also shows its location. Since we want to delete the file, we have to change the pull down menu from No action to Delete and then click on the Unlock button. What this does is delete the open file handles that the program is using. You can also rename the file, move it or copy it.
Step # 5 - Fifth method - End the application via the Task Manager
You can also try to manually end the process or application that holds your file hostage by opening the Task Manager. To do so click CTRL + SHIFT + ESC. Alternatively, you can right-click the Taskbar or click CTRL + ALT + DEL anywhere in Windows and select Start Task Manager. Switch to the Processes tab, then browse for the application or file that was used to open it. Once you find the process, right-click it and select End Process Tree. This will close all instances of the program.
Result: Congratulations! You’ve just learned How to Delete a File that Is In Use In Windows.