Folder in Use

[Old Salt]

Running Windows 7 and Explorer 8

When trying to rename or delete files or folders, I often get

Folder in Use
The action can't be completed because the folder or a file in it is open in another program.

I check the task manager and sure enough something is running. I do an end task and try again, but still get the same error message. And yet again the task manager says something is running. No matter how many times I try it, it never seems to unlock the file or folder.

I have checked the internet and it seems quite a few users are having the same problem, but they seem to be pre WIN 7.

Sure could use some easy to understand instructions. While reading what others have been doing I discovered I didn't really understand a lot of the expanations.

Thanks for any advice and assistance

OS

[AlBags]

It's a fact that often, Windows holds onto or locks access to certain folders and/or files. Windows also reads type and spec of files in folders. If there are any damaged files (media files are a favourite) they can cause Explorer to crash. Explorer is usually what is accessing and preventing deletion. Although possible to close Explorer (and restart) in Task Manager, it's tricky to do.
Switch off pictures in folders, and some of the individualisation settings .. It may help a bit.

[rojash]

"something is running"
Perhaps if you told us what the something is...

[Old Salt]

Thanks for the reply AlBags

Got to agree, after wading through masses of internet pages, I have come to a similar conclusion. I have been seeking advice from MS, but all I get from them is a lot of FAQs and run the system checker.............

The folder is not causing a problem, and it is the first one that I have not been able to 'eventually' delete or rename. It just bothers me that the system will not do what I want it to.

If I run across anything useful, I'll post here.

Take care

OS

[Old Salt]

The something is no longer important rojash.

I appreciate your reply

OS

[squarebear]

I assume it's not a system folder you are trying to delete/rename?

[Old Salt]

Thanks for the reply squarbear

Problem identified................when I uninstalled Norton 360, both files deleted as normal. Only recently came back to Norton after dumping them many years ago, under similar circumstances. And I find their helpdesk is not very user friendly (still)

I do like the ID and Password Manager, but, the backup is so difficult and slow I disabled it. Only a few more months to go on the subscription, but if problems continue to surface, I shall use the free BT Yahoo! Security

OS

[TTG]

If you cannot delete/rename a file/folder due to being locked/in use, try again by booting into safe mode.

[TTG]

I should say that this does not apply to programs or system files/folders!