Cannot delete:access is denied message

[dECLANn]

Am having a Windows Xp computer at home with just one user account, and that is me, Admin of this PC. Since yesterday I am unable to delete few folders or files kept in my D Drive. I don’t know whats wrong, whenever I try deleting them, it gives me an error saying :

Cannot delete xyz folder: Access is denied.
Make sure the disk is not full or write protected and that the file is not currently in use.

I restarted my PC several times but every time it gives me the same error. There is also no program running in the backgroiund than who is using this program that is preventing me to delete it ? Please help.

[land Bald]

If there was any program using the files from those folders, restarting must fix it. But as you said you already tried that and still no success, I think it could be the permission issue. But before we try out changing permission or taking ownership of those files, I’ll suggest you to please check if you are able to delete them from safe mode. If it dies, well and good and if not, than try out below Articles:

How to set, view, change, or remove file and folder permissions in Windows XP (Pro/Home)

Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP (Pro/Home)

How to set, view, change, or remove special permissions for files and folders in Windows XP

[RaAbi]

The only reason behind those error message use to be any program that is using the files or accessing those folders. You need to identify them and kill them from Task Manager.

[ikazimali]

Follow these steps for delete access denied files

1. Right Click on Taskbar
2. Select Task Manager
3. From Process list select Explorer.exe and Click End Process
4. Click on File from menu and select Run
5. Click Browse
6. from Files of Types select All Files from drop down box
7. goto file location and delete it.

[jatin bhalla]

hi i m using windows xp i changed my folder properties fr safety then nw i reloaded my windows and only formated c drive and folder is in d drive nw its shwing access is denied plzz help me to over come this problem