Today, under my "program microscope" I had the imprudence to get free program to permanently delete files and folders called Alternate File Shredder.
Is it so good and reliable that it sprays various computer files into atoms, without the possibility of their recovery by any means, methods and special programs, as the manufacturers say? Let's check.
How to completely and securely delete a file or folder
Several times on the pages of this site I have described special recovery software accidentally deleted files. With their help, it was possible to return data even after formatting the disk.
But what if the task is to completely delete a file or folder, without a single chance for recovery (bad uncles and evil aunts) ... so that no Recuva, Hetman Partition Recovery or PhotoDOCTOR could resurrect them? Are there really no such programs?
We launch the program and specify files or folders for safe deletion ...
"Number of iterations" is the number of passes. On ssd drives, I do not advise you to abuse this figure (one pass is enough).
Click on the "Destroy files" button and confirm the complete removal ...
(Oops, screenshot with deleting another file)
...we are going to apply to any spy organization in the world...
Checking the reliability of data deletion ...
…the Recuva program didn’t even find anything similar to my deleted file, but it found a huge pile of deleted ones a couple of years ago.
I didn’t check the data with other resuscitators - I’m sure that the result will be the same.
Download Alternate File Shredder
The program for permanently deleting files and folders Alternate File Shredder lives at this address - http://www.alternate-tools.com/
Its size is 909 kb. There are no viruses and installation difficulties. It has a multilingual interface (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, German, Korean, Czech…). Works in absolutely any versions operating system Windows.
Lastly, don't confuse Alternate File Shredder with program removers. These are different things. The hero of this article deletes individual files and folders, and does not uninstall programs previously installed on the computer.
P.S. I also ask you not to breed holivar in the comments about the fact that there are other programs with a similar function of reliable permanent deletion - of course there are, but it was in this article that Alternate File Shredder was discussed.
"Iobit Uninstaller is by far the best uninstaller for Windows I've tested. If you need a program that removes applications without leaving any traces, then use Iobit Uninstaller. This free utility easily removes applications, including files left after uninstallation Software from a hard drive or SSD using Windows Other free tools like Comodo Programs Manager and Revo Uninstaller perform similar functions, but Iobit Uninstaller excels in listening to user suggestions and removing annoying browser toolbars and plugins. In short, if you are using a Windows PC, you should download the Iobit Uninstaller to uninstall applications."
PC Magazine
User Reviews
"IObit Uninstaller is probably one of the best software to remove unnecessary programs from your computer. Unlike the basic Windows uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller removes all remnants of programs that can subsequently slow down PC performance. I have been using this program for several years, and it works quickly cleans my computer of junk files I have recommended IObit Uninstaller to some of my friends in the past and would recommend it again today."
Sergey Erlich
User Reviews
"IObit Uninstaller is one of the best uninstallers. Easy to use, cleaning is fast and thorough. Since version 5, there are many features that are compatible not only with Windows 10. Quick cleaning of plugins is also very convenient. And the program is great at finding unused and duplicate applications Thank you for your warm attitude to our family's computers."
When deleting some files through the OS, a notification appears that the operation cannot be completed because the file is in use by another program. Next, you will learn why this happens, and what tools can be used to successfully remove unnecessary files.
Description of the problem
If you open a file of a registered type in an appropriate program, such as a text editor or a music player, it cannot be deleted just like that by switching from the editor to Explorer and clicking "Delete". The operating system will not allow the erasure of data that is used directly in this moment in PC operation. In this case, one process (started by the user) tries to erase the file from the storage medium, and another process (started by the operating system or another program) blocks the delete operation, believing that this will lead to a malfunction or some other problems.In fact, each of these processes is important and necessary, but it happens that the file to be deleted is not opened by any program, and at the same time, the OS does not allow it to be deleted. As a rule, this is due to such reasons:
- Incorrect closing of the file by the program or incorrect termination of the program itself in the last session of its work.
- A virus has entered the PC, and when trying to remove an infected program or the virus itself, it tries to defend itself, not allowing it to be easily eliminated.
- The OS considers that some other user is currently working with the file - either from the same PC, or via local network. Whether this is really so may be unknown, or even known that there is no other user and cannot be. But to delete such a file in any case does not work.
Simple Removal Methods
Initially, we suggest that you use simple methods Solutions to the problem (listed in order of speed):- Reboot PC. Oddly enough, but quite often it is this simple measure that allows you to shut down all OS processes and then successfully delete an unnecessary file.
- Try renaming the file, if successful - then try deleting (don't forget to copy this file in advance if you may need it later).
- Transfer the file to another logical drive/flash drive. If it works, delete it from the new location.
- Check the file attributes (they can be changed in the Properties context menu item). Remove read-only, hidden, system, archive attributes and try to delete again.
- Check the date the file was created and last modified. If it is clearly inadequate (according to the OS, the file was created in 1980 or last time was changed in 2060), try changing the date to a realistic date and delete.
- If this file is typical and can be modified (for example, text in the “Word” format), try opening it in a program corresponding to the file type, somehow changing the content, saving the data already in new version, close the program and try to uninstall again. The same method can work with non-standard files, but the probability of a successful outcome is reduced.
What should I do if I cannot delete a file/folder due to permissions?
No access to file/folder. To delete this file/folder, you need to have "Administrator" rights - if such notifications appear when you try to delete a file/folder, you need to reconfigure the access rights. To do this, you will have to do the following manipulations (an example of deleting a folder):- Right-click on the folder, select "Properties" - "Security" - "Advanced".
- In the "Owner" line, change the user to the one under which you are currently working in the system. To do this, you can click "Check Names", then put a bird in the line "Replace the owner of subcontainers and objects" and click "OK".
- The "Windows Security" window will appear and the OS will do "Change Ownership" for a while. Next, the PC will ask: "Do you want to change the permissions for this folder so that you have full access rights?". Answer - "Yes".
- Next, we again see the "Properties" window, the "Security" tab. Click the "Change" button with a drawn shield, that is, we will just change our access rights to this folder, including the right to delete. For each user, put a tick in the top line "Full access" and "OK".
- You will have to wait for a certain period of time, now your access rights to the folder and objects inside it will change. Do not forget in the "General" properties tab, uncheck the "Read only" item, confirm this change in attributes as well.
After a short wait, the folder can usually be safely deleted. If Windows asks for permissions again, try repeating the described procedure.
All manipulations to remove a locked folder or file can be seen in the video:
What programs can delete non-removable files?
If none of the above methods helped, then in such a situation you already have to use tools to delete files.Unlocker
One of the most popular tools for deleting files in the CIS that do not want to be deleted is the Unlocker program. It can be downloaded by clicking on the link to the developer's website: www.emptyloop.com.Important! Old versions of Unlocker may not work on 64-bit operating systems - Windows 7, 8, 10. Do not download old versions on unknown sites where the content has not been updated for a long time.
There are both installable (built into the operating system) and “portable” versions. Each version has its own minor advantages and disadvantages, but for a one-time removal, the portable version is recommended. However, if you have problems with deleting files regularly, then it is better to install Unlocker.
During the installation, it is possible to install Unlocker Assistant. This assistant program is always visible in the Taskbar and will automatically launch in cases where there are problems with uninstallation.
Working with the portable version of the program is very simple:
- Launch Unlocker.
- Select the desired file in the window that opens, and you will see processes that do not allow you to delete it. These are "blocking descriptors".
- At the bottom left there is an opportunity to select options for actions - delete, unlock, transfer.
Agree and reboot.
Unlocker analogs
Unfortunately, official support for Unlocker ended on Windows 7 (which usually does not prevent it from working normally under later versions of the OS), but for trouble-free operation under Windows 8 and Windows 10, it is better to use IObit Unlocker. The interface is very similar, Russified and in general does not cause any difficulties.dead lock
Unlike the previous program, this one will definitely need to be run on the computer in order to delete the desired file. You can download the application from the link: http://codedead.com/?page_id=822Instructions for using the program:
- Open the application and go to the "File" tab.
- Select the file to be deleted.
- We click on the file with the right mouse button, then select "Unlock" (unblock) or "Remove" (delete).
The disadvantage of this program is that it only supports the English interface.
Using Live-CD or Live-flash
A radical way to get rid of an unnecessary file is to start the operating system not from your PC's hard drive, but from a Live-CD or Live-flash. But this requires at least the Live-CD itself plus a drive for it. It’s better if you have a Live-flash (the same, but on a flash drive, you don’t need a drive), a USB port is enough here:- Insert the Live media into the PC, boot from it (you may need to enter the BIOS).
- Find the stubborn file on your HDD and erase it. The OS from the Live media will not object in any case, since for it any file on your PC is a foreign body.
- Turn off the PC, remove the Live media, and boot up the computer. The previously undeleted file will be deleted.
How to remove non-removable programs
Some companies make it so that after installing their programs on your PC there are some additional programs that are completely unnecessary to you, and you did not give conscious consent to their installation. If you cannot remove such programs from the "Programs and Features" list using regular means along the following path "Start" - "Properties" - "Programs" - "Uninstall a program", uninstaller programs will come to the rescue:- Revo Uninstaller Pro is one of the most popular programs for uninstalling other programs. Russified. Completely removes all references to the removed software, not only from the disk, but also from the registry. There is an autoload control; irretrievably erases not only programs, but also unnecessary files; cleans browser history (not all, you can check by version) and document history in MS Office; is automatically updated. The unique "hunter mode" allows you to find and remove a program that is not registered in the list of programs.
- IObit Uninstaller Free - removes the entire package associated with the unwanted program. In addition, it has a forced removal function, which helps to demolish the most "stubborn" programs. Allows "rollback" windows updates. Disables browser extensions and plugins. Creates a list installed programs and saves to a file. Keeps a history of its work (uninstallation of programs).
- Advanced Uninstaller Pro. Deletes cookies, customizes toolbars in browsers. Optimizes the registry file. There's even a font manager for Windows!
How to delete non-removable files from a flash drive
To delete files from a flash drive, most of the above methods will work. In addition, you will always have the “final argument” in stock - full formatting. After it, no files, folders, or viruses will remain on the flash drive.So, if a situation has arisen where it is impossible to delete a file by conventional means, because the operating system (more precisely, some of its visible or hidden processes) believes that the files are still in operation, you can use the above instructions to successfully complete the deletion and get rid of unnecessary file.
Often, users have to deal with such an unpleasant phenomenon as “indeletable” folders and files. The reasons for their appearance can be very diverse, from a software error to the purposeful action of a virus, but their essence boils down to one thing - retention by some visible or hidden process.
In some cases, a simple reboot of the system is quite sufficient to fix such a problem, but it also happens that a file or folder is stubbornly unwilling under any circumstances.
An attempt to delete an object by regular means ends in failure. In this case, the user can receive different messages, such as that the file is in use by another application. But, for example, such messages may cause attempts to delete folders with reserved DOS names.
Of course, if you are a connoisseur and perfectly understand how the Windows operating system works, you may be able to quickly find the right solution, but what about simple and completely unprepared users for such surprises?
The way out, as always, is simple - use special utilities to remove blocked objects.
Unlocker
Unlocker is perhaps the most famous Russian-language utility for deleting “undeletable” folders and files. Lightweight, free and extremely easy to use, Unlocker handles even the most complex objects with ease. The utility allows you to delete, move and rename folders and files locked by system processes. The program will be useful in cases where the object is used by another application, with access restrictions, sharing violations and other common errors.
In particular difficult situations, when a file cannot be deleted immediately, Unlocker will offer to delete it the next time the system is rebooted. The functions of the utility are controlled from the Explorer context menu. When installing the program, third-party modules, such as QuickStores bar, can be integrated into the system, so be careful, uncheck the appropriate boxes in the installation wizard window. Download Unlocker: www.emptyloop.com
Any File Remover
Any File Remover is a free utility for removing blocked objects. Unlike Unlocker Any File Remover doesn't move or rename files, it just deletes them. The utility works quickly, cleanly and without rebooting the system. Supports creation of a list of deleted objects, manual setting overwrite method. Among the shortcomings, one can note the lack of integration into the Explorer context menu, the inability to select an entire folder for deletion and the absence of the Russian language, although during installation the user is prompted to select the Russian language.
MoveOnBoot
Free program to remove, rename locked folders and . MoveOnBoot has a colorful graphical interface with support for changing themes and a rich set of additional features. Can be used to remove crashing applications and even viruses that the antivirus program could not remove.
The application has a built-in Uninstall Wizard, supports working with the system registry. Deleting, renaming and moving locked folders and files in MoveOnBoot is only possible with a subsequent system reboot, which is actually the main drawback of this program. The low popularity of MoveOnBoot also contributed to the large weight, the lack of the Russian language and integration into the Explorer context menu.
File Governor
File Governor is a simple, convenient and free program for deleting "intractable" folders and files, a good analogue of Unlocker. “Indications for use” are the use of the deleted object by the user or another application, access violations, as well as some other deletion errors.
File Governor also supports integration into Explorer, copying a file to a specified directory, searching for locked files in selected directories, forcibly terminating processes, logging, unlocking selected files.
The utility is endowed with the simplest interface, is lightweight, works with most versions of . Russian language is missing.
FileASSASSIN
Very light, simple and free program from the well-known company Malwarebytes. In terms of capabilities, it is comparable to the Unlocker utility. Several methods can be used to open access to a file.
Embedding in the context menu of the Explorer, FileASSASSIN creates two separate items: Delete file using FileASSASSIN (forced deletion of the file) and Unlock file using FileASSASSIN (unlock, but do not delete). File deletion can also be scheduled the next time Windows is restarted. The main disadvantage of the utility is the lack of the Russian language.
Conclusion
The utilities presented in this review are far from being the only ones of their kind. There are many other, both simple and completely exotic tools and methods for solving the problem of “indeletable” folders and files.
We will give just one example.
To get full access to the file system, and to mean and delete anything you want, the usual ones with a built-in file manager will help you.
Booted from such a disk, you can delete, move or rename any file or folder without any problems.
"Iobit Uninstaller is by far the best uninstaller for Windows I've tested. If you need a program that removes applications without leaving any traces, then use Iobit Uninstaller. This free utility easily removes applications, including files left after uninstallation Software from a hard drive or SSD using Windows Other free tools like Comodo Programs Manager and Revo Uninstaller perform similar functions, but Iobit Uninstaller excels in listening to user suggestions and removing annoying browser toolbars and plugins. In short, if you are using a Windows PC, you should download the Iobit Uninstaller to uninstall applications."
PC Magazine
User Reviews
"IObit Uninstaller is probably one of the best software to remove unnecessary programs from your computer. Unlike the basic Windows uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller removes all remnants of programs that can subsequently slow down PC performance. I have been using this program for several years, and it works quickly cleans my computer of junk files I have recommended IObit Uninstaller to some of my friends in the past and would recommend it again today."
Sergey Erlich
User Reviews
"IObit Uninstaller is one of the best uninstallers. Easy to use, cleaning is fast and thorough. Since version 5, there are many features that are compatible not only with Windows 10. Quick cleaning of plugins is also very convenient. And the program is great at finding unused and duplicate applications Thank you for your kindness to our family's computers."
