Method 2: Close All Running Applications Usually, the issue occurs because the target file or folder is open by another application. At times, you think you have closed the application. But it is not like that. So, you can close all the running applications on your computer and then check when the error can disappear.
According to users, the File in use error can appear due to your thumbnails. Sometimes, Windows has issues unloading thumbnails, preventing you from deleting your files. To fix the problem, you just have to switch to Details view in File Explorer and you should be able to delete the file.
According to users, the File in use error can appear due to your thumbnails. Sometimes, Windows has issues unloading thumbnails, preventing you from deleting your files. To fix the problem, you just have to switch to Details view in File Explorer and you should be able to delete the file.
According to users, it might seem like the file usage error is paying for your thumbnails. Windows sometimes has tasks that unload thumbnails, preventing you from deleting files. To solve the underlying problem, simply navigate to the Details section in File Explorer and you should be able to delete the file.
In the case of an ideal folder, if a file from the folder is used to open, this prevents the directory from being deleted. Do everything confidently and close properly. Sometimes Windows 10 thinks the app is still working on the file when it’s done with it.
Press Windows Key + E to open File Explorer, locate the affected file, and copy the trace file. Now right-click the Start button and select Command Prompt (Admin). To access the file database of your file in use, cd Path [the directory you copied] and press Enter.
How to fix folder read only on Windows 10?
Quick Navigation: Why does a folder remain read-only in Windows 10?
Solution 1 – Change permissions
Solution 2 – Change the attribute you see on the folder
Solution 3: Temporarily disable your antivirus program
Comments on the user program
How to fix folder access denied error in Windows 10?
Troubleshooting Access Denied 1: Troubleshooting Take ownership of the file.
Solution regarding: Create your administrator profile.
Universal solution: check if a file or folder is encrypted.
Solution 4: Scanning Chkdsk Sprint
Solution 5 – Disable your antivirus
Solution 6 – Disable the user management webpage
How to delete a file in use on Windows?
If you want to keep the history but just remove it from the recent files list, do the following: Click File > Open.
Find the file you want to delete.
We right-click on our file, then click “Remove from list”.

I’m a writer for uscfr.com. In my opinion, technology should make our lives easier, not more complicated. That’s why I enjoy breaking down complex topics and explaining them in a way that everyone can understand. In my free time, I can be found tinkering with new devices or coding up new apps.