You can also delete ghost files using the command prompt with a command or by changing the file type. In this article, we walk you through a few software to delete files that seem undeletable on Windows PC.

How do I delete stubborn files?

Windows have built-in options to help you delete stubborn files. The most common and widely-used method is the DEL command in CMD. This deletes even ghost files, provided you know their location. However, there are some secured and system files that the built-in option cannot delete. And this is where the use of third-party software comes in. Below are some of the benefits of using third-party software to delete your files:

Total deletion of files without leaving remnants on the PC Speed Can force delete locked files Hard drive clean-up feature to ensure files are not recoverable

What are the best tools to remove any unwanted files?

Secure Eraser – Built-in disk cleaner

Obliterate files that are tricky to remove without compromising the security of the PC and operating system with Secure Eraser. Not only can you remove files and folders entirely and permanently, but you can also perform the same actions regarding browsing history, saved passwords, etc. The easy-to-use interface ensures you don’t need to be a computer pro to use it, but it offers pro-level results in a blink. Even if data is deleted from a computer, it is not impossible to recover. Confidential information is similar to a memory pattern; it is tough to remove from a system storing it for various purposes. Secure Eraser uses the most well-known data deletion process, overwriting sensitive data that can never be restored, even with specialized software. Secure Eraser operates to the tiniest detail and leaves no residues. You can also remove previously deleted files, and this time will be forever gone. Whenever an action is performed, a clean-up of the hard drive should follow to ensure that it performs smoothly after that. Since Windows XP, the software has supported all operating system versions, and the Department of Defence of the US and the German industrial standard approves it.

Easy File Shredder – External drive compatibility

Easy File Shredder does precisely what its title suggests, cleaning any trace of unwanted files and folders from your PC. This fantastic app removes the files and ensures no trace remains, making the extracted data unrecoverable. The features included in this powerful software protect your entire hard drive, and it can be used to extend its capabilities even to USB drivers and SD cards.

Wise Force Deleter – Intuitive interface

Wise Force Deleter is free software that lets you delete any file on your Windows system (64 and 32-bit). It is designed and tested to run smoothly on Windows operating systems ranging from Windows XP to Windows 11. Wise Force Deleter has a simple and highly intuitive UI with drag-and-drop functions, making it a breeze for you. SPONSORED Once you install it, a new Force Delete option will appear in the dialogue box. Right-click a protected file and pick Force Remove, which will open the Wise Force Deleter to unlock and delete it. The file can then be unlocked and removed from your Windows PC in seconds. You also get a 60-day money-back guarantee and live technical support 24/7.

IObit Unlocker – Dynamic file deleter

IObit Unlocker is a free utility from the developers at IObit. The company makes system utility tools for Windows, Mac, and Android devices. This powerful software removes any traces available of the apps and files you’re trying to get rid of, thus making it a viable option. Besides performing these tasks without problems, it also keeps your computer safe from any malware intrusions while also removing any threats found at this time on your PC. IObit Unlocker is a free software for Windows devices that can help you to solve error messages while trying to delete files. The software supports all the versions of Windows since XP. In addition, IObit Unlocker offers multiple ways to manage files, including Delete, Rename, Move, Unlock, and Copy. You can use multiple files and unlock them simultaneously. Simply click the small + Add button and select any other file you want to unlock or delete. Once you select the file, you can check the status of the file. Click the small drop-down button beside the Unlock button and select the appropriate action. Are you looking for a list of the best file recovery software instead? Then, check our detailed guide for the top options available. It can help you delete malware-infected or system-protected files with a single click. In addition, all the deleted files are moved to the Recycle Bin, just in case you need to restore an important file after deleting it accidentally. It shows the process that keeps the file locked, can unload DDLS from the process, supports Explorer menu integration for easier access, and supports both 32-bit and 64-bit edition Windows. LockHunter also allows you to unlock, delete, copy or rename a locked file, schedule file deletion on the following OS restart and remove the locked process from the hard drive. ⇒ Get LockHunter  Ensure you always create a restore point before making significant changes to your computer, including deleting undeletable/locked files. Please let us know the software you enjoy using from our list in the comments below.

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