By using these methods, you should be able to delete unwanted files and folders even when Windows restricts you from doing so.

How to Force Delete in Windows Command Line. You can use Windows Explorer, the operating system's native file manager, to delete files on your hard drive, but the application limits user control.

To force delete a locked file in Windows, use the Command Prompt or Safe Mode to bypass the file lock and delete it forcefully. Take caution, as the file cannot be recovered after it is deleted.

These programs can also help you delete undeletable or locked files and folders. How to open an encrypted file if access is denied in Windows may also interest some of you.

Last night I copied some file data from an old Windows Home Server installation to a new one. I wanted to free up some space by deleting some old files. Most deleted just fine, but 3 of the files ...